Nine questions to ask a custom home builder, with our answers

Choosing a builder is the biggest decision in a custom home. You will work with that team for a year or more, so it is worth asking hard questions first.

Here are nine we think every buyer should ask any builder. Under each one is our own answer, so you know where we stand before you call.

1. How long have you been building here?

Rick and Riley Richardson founded Richardson Brothers Custom Homes and have built in Southern Utah since 1993.

2. Can I see homes you have finished?

Yes. Our homes page shows finished homes with full photo galleries, including our entries in the St. George Area Parade of Homes. Our 2026 Parade home is The Advenire.

The Koderra, our 2023 Parade home at Sand Hollow.

3. Who will I actually work with?

Rick and Riley. They sit down with each client to plan the home, and they are on the property during the build, not just overseeing the work.

4. How much can I customize?

All of it. You decide which rooms you want, how many, and their sizes and shapes. You choose where things go, from the kitchen sink and range to fireplaces and closets, and how much shelving and storage you want and where.

Built in storage in The Solithria, our 2025 Parade home.

5. Can you help me find a lot?

Yes. You can pick your own lot, or we can help you find one. If you choose your own, we will look at it with you and talk through what it means for your design.

6. How long will it take?

From the first meeting to move in, most clients should plan on a year and a half to two years. Construction itself can take six months to over a year, depending on the type and size of the home.

7. How will I know how my build is going?

We keep in close contact through each step using our online management tool. Even when you are away from Southern Utah, you can approve design features and see construction updates.

8. Will the home be inspected along the way?

Yes. We run through several inspections as we build, including third party inspections of systems such as HVAC, roofing, electrical and plumbing.

9. What warranty comes with the home?

Every custom home we build comes with a Quality Builders Warranty, a 10 year warranty backed by Liberty Mutual. Our warranty page explains the coverage.

One more piece of advice

Ask every builder on your list the same questions and compare the answers side by side. Then pay attention to how the conversation feels. A good builder listens first.

Our greatest priority is to understand clearly what you want to create. We ask focused questions and listen carefully to your answers. If that sounds like the way you want to build, we would like to meet you.