ᐅ How to Find the Right Contractor?

Created on: 18 Apr 2012 14:11
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schnien1
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schnien1
18 Apr 2012 14:11
Hello,
we are planning to build a Passive House, which of course already limits the range of options (thankfully). But it really feels like, based on the offers, that most of the major contractors basically offer the same thing. And I don’t want to visit countless ones either. How did you make your decision, maybe you have some suggestions and also importantly: how many did you compare?
Thanks in advance!
Der Da18 Apr 2012 17:22
I had to think for a moment about what a PH is. Prefabricated house? Log house? No, Passive House 🙂 😀

We initially looked at a Passive House as well, but for financial reasons, we decided on an Energy-Efficient House (KFW55). The heating costs (without a basement) here are around 400-500 € per year with a gas boiler.

We more or less followed the behavior of the salespeople and immediately rejected those who pressed for a quick signature. Of course, we searched online for complaining customers and then asked acquaintances for recommendations. Ultimately, we chose the provider who was by far not the cheapest but made the best impression. We only signed the building contract two months after the first conversation and had many discussions in between.

If you want, I can send you the provider’s name via private message. However, there is now nearly a 12-month waiting time. You have to take that into account. If allowed, I can also post the provider directly. So far, we have only had positive experiences.
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E.Curb
18 Apr 2012 17:39
schnien1 schrieb:
Now you really get the impression that, at least in terms of the offers, the major builders are basically offering the same thing.

What do you mean by that? A cookie-cutter house?
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Edding
18 Apr 2012 23:13
Good work comes at a price, and so does quality. Many customers or "long-term/decades of" experience, as well as attractive 3D renderings or internet presentations, do not necessarily mean much. The experienced generation of the company has often been replaced by other people. The online slogan of our builder began with "If you are looking for quality..." …we would continue it with: then go elsewhere. I recommend reviewing the contract with an experienced person before signing, if necessary with a construction law attorney… it costs money but saves a lot more stress later. Some companies "forget" to include penalty clauses in their contract drafts, for example for delayed completion. I would also advise documenting all extras in the contract clearly with type designations and prices… this also prevents later disputes when every cent is contested.
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schnien1
19 Apr 2012 09:33
E.Curb schrieb:
What do you mean by that?
A cookie-cutter house?

That wasn’t meant negatively, but when I know my square meterage, my type of heating, and a few other details, you often end up with roughly the same result from several options (which is logical). That’s what makes it so difficult for us. Because when you look at experiences, you will find both positives and negatives everywhere. It goes without saying that the contract will be independently reviewed and that we’ll appoint an inspector for the construction—this money is very well invested.