Why might you prefer to choose a builder  early on? The process is so complex that most owners need professional guidance from the beginning to avoid mistakes in site selection, home design and written specifications.

Your budget probably shouldn't be among the top criteria in selecting a builder. No builder can quote an accurate price for a custom or semi-custom home until he or she knows the type, style, finishes and features of the home, the site conditions and the type of contract you want to use for construction.

Rather than focusing on cost, you may well want to base your decision on the builder's competence, reputation, professionalism, warranty coverage and experience. Here are six criteria to consider:

1.   Reputation
Look for an established builder ( Village Green Custom Homes, Building Dreams Since 1982 ) with an extensive client list.

2.   Area of operations
Choose a builder who is familiar with the area where you want your home to be built. Local knowledge is important because residential construction is very regional in nature. An out-of-the-area builder might not be prepared to handle variations in local building codes, subcontracting practices, inclement weather patterns or other factors.

3.   Type of home
Select a builder who has extensive experience constructing homes in your price range and general design style.

4.   Compatibility
Building a home is a highly personal and emotional experience. That's why you'll want to choose a builder with whom you'll feel comfortable. Always stay in your comfort zone.

5.  Financial stability
Some builders run their businesses better than other builders do. Make sure the building company you select is financially viable. You can finish and have a subcontractor lien against your property.  Vetting of the contractor is your responsibility.  Without proper vetting you could pay for part of your house twice if a lien is placed against it.

6.  Financial strength
Success in the home-building business is earned by building a quality product at a fair price. A builder who is financially successful likely will still be in business during the warranty period for your new home. Further, successful builders are in the best position to contract for the services of top subcontractors and suppliers–the people who will actually build your home.

Beyond these factors, the most important consideration is the quality of the builder's homes. Cost is not a direct measure of quality. Rather, good quality is the merging of good design with appropriate products and materials that are installed with superior workmanship. The most expensive window might not look or perform any better than a substantially less expensive window. But improper installation of that window will diminish its quality, regardless of its cost. Generally, costly finishes and fixtures won't offset shoddy application or installation.