12 Questions to Ask Custom Home Builders in Middle Tennessee

Choosing a custom home builder isn’t just a financial decision. It’s a personal one because you’re choosing a partner. These questions are here to help you ask wisely, compare clearly, and have a better home-building experience.

This guide walks you through 12 essential questions to ask before hiring a custom home builder in Middle Tennessee.

From licensing and pricing to warranties and communication, you’ll gain clarity on what matters and how to spot the builder that’s right for you for building your custom home.

Keep these questions handy, so you can choose the builder that's the right fit for your custom home project:

1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Tennessee?

Of course, the wrong answer to this one is an immediate deal breaker. It’s foundational.

A reputable custom home builder should be fully licensed and insured to operate in the state of Tennessee. If they can’t provide clear proof, that’s a sign to walk away.

Why does this matter? Because if something goes wrong on your property (like an injury to a crew member or damage during construction), you could be held financially and legally responsible. Without the right protections in place, your project could be delayed, shut down, or cost you far more than expected.

2. Can You Provide Testimonials From Past Clients?

Any builder can talk about their own work, but what really matters is what their clients say. A trusted custom home builder should be able to point you to real testimonials from homeowners they’ve worked with across Middle Tennessee.

Many reputable design‑build firms share reviews directly on their website, but it’s also wise to look beyond that.

Reading Google reviews or browsing platforms like Houzz can give you a clearer picture of how a builder communicates, handles challenges, and delivers on their promises.

Look for Patterns in the Feedback That Speak To:

• Clear, proactive communication

• Transparency around pricing and expectations

• Quality craftsmanship and attention to detail

• Professionalism of the team and trade partners

• How the builder handled problems or changes

Consistent feedback from past clients is one of the best indicators of professionalism, quality, and what your experience will truly be like.

3. What Features Are Included in Your Standard Cost?

Every builder prices their homes differently, and assumptions can lead to costly surprises. Some may offer a “base price” that looks appealing at first, but doesn’t include features many homeowners expect as standard.

At your first meeting, ask for clarity on what’s actually included in the builder’s price and what’s considered an upgrade. This helps you compare builders fairly and understand what your budget will realistically cover.

One of the Best Protections You Can Have Is a Fixed-Price Contract. Why? Because It Gives You:

• Clear expectations on what’s included (and what’s not)

• Protection from surprise costs and vague allowances

• Peace of mind when making design decisions

• Accurate budgeting from day one

• Confidence that your home won’t be more than you planned

At Doxa Custom Homes, a fixed price isn’t just a contract style; it’s a commitment to transparency and trust.

4. How Do You Communicate With Clients During the Project?

Clear, consistent communication is one of the most important things to look for in a custom home builder. You should know when to expect updates, how to ask questions, and what to do if something feels unclear along the way.

Ask Your Builder:

• How often will we get updates?

• Will I have one main point of contact?

• How quickly do you respond to messages or questions?

Today, most professional builders use project management software to keep homeowners in the loop.

At Doxa Custom Homes, we use JobTread, which gives you 24/7 access to your schedule, selections, progress photos, and messages all in one place. Even if you’re not tech-savvy, it’s user-friendly and designed to reduce the stress that comes from being in the dark.

You should never feel out of the loop on your own project. A great builder will make sure of that from day one.

5. Will I Receive a Construction Schedule So I’ll Know What to Expect?

One of the best ways to feel secure during your build is by having a clear construction schedule.

A professional builder should provide you with a full project timeline so you know what’s happening when, how long each phase will take, and what to expect if you plan a site visit.

We give our clients real-time access to their schedule through our JobTread platform, which automatically updates if things shift due to weather, materials, or other variables. If your builder isn’t using a management system, make sure they explain how they’ll keep you informed of schedule changes.

Predictability matters, and your builder should be proactive about keeping you in the loop.

6. How Should I Go About Financing My Custom-Built Home?

Financing a custom home isn’t something most homeowners do often, so don’t be afraid to ask your builder for guidance. A knowledgeable builder will be familiar with the local financing process and may even have relationships with trusted lenders in your area.

Here Are the Two Most Common Types of Construction Financing:

• Construction Loan + Mortgage:

  • Two separate loans: one for the build, one for the long-term mortgage

  • Offers flexibility to shop for the best mortgage rate after the build

  • Requires additional paperwork and qualification for both loans

• Construction-to-Permanent Loan:

  • Rolls automatically from construction financing into a permanent mortgage

  • Streamlines the process with one closing and one loan

  • May limit options when it’s time to secure your long-term mortgage

Ask your builder if they have preferred lenders and follow up with those institutions directly. Their relationship with the builder can offer insight into how organized, experienced, and professional they truly are.

7. Who Will be My Point of Contact During Construction?

Clear communication depends on knowing exactly who to go to with questions and getting answers you can count on.

Be sure to ask your builder who your main point of contact will be once construction begins. A great follow-up is asking if there’s a secondary contact in case that person is unavailable. It’s also helpful to understand their communication style, how often you’ll receive updates, and what to expect in terms of response time.

Our clients are connected with a dedicated project manager and supported through our JobTread client portal, so nothing gets lost in translation and you’re never left wondering what’s next.

8. What Is the Last Opportunity I Will Have to Make Any Changes?

Even with thoughtful planning, it’s common for homeowners to come across new ideas or products mid-project. Maybe you discover a flooring style you love or want to adjust a plumbing fixture you originally selected.

Once construction is underway, changes are still possible, but they often require a formal change order, especially if materials have already been purchased. These changes can affect both your timeline and your budget. That’s why it’s important to ask your builder when the final opportunity is to make changes, and what their change order process looks like. 

9. How Often and at What Points Will I Be Able to Make Site Visits During Construction?

It’s natural to want to check in on your home during construction.

Most builders welcome site visits at specific phases when it’s safe and productive to do so. It’s also important to understand that certain stages of construction (like framing, electrical, or finish work) can pose safety concerns, which is why visits are typically scheduled with your project manager.

Ask your builder how they handle site access, and be sure you’re aligned on when and how you can see your home as it takes shape.

10. How Do You Handle Problems If They Occur?

Even the most well-planned projects can run into unexpected challenges, like a delayed material shipment, a weather-related delay, or an unforeseen issue behind a wall.

What matters most is how your builder responds when something doesn’t go exactly to plan. Ask how they’ve handled these situations in the past, and how they communicate those changes with clients.

At Doxa, we believe transparency is essential. You’ll always be informed if something comes up, and we’ll talk through the options with you before moving forward. The right builder won’t just solve problems behind the scenes. They’ll guide you through them with transparency and initiative.

11. Can You Walk Me Through Your Warranty Policy?

A reputable custom home builder should offer a clear, written warranty and be willing to walk you through exactly what it covers. Before you sign a contract, ask to review the warranty in detail so you understand how to report issues, how long coverage lasts, and what to expect if a repair is needed.

Keep in mind that different parts of the home may carry different warranty terms, especially when it comes to appliances or finish materials.

Here’s What to Ask About Any Builder’s Warranty:

• What is the length of coverage, and when does it begin?

• Are there different timeframes for structural, mechanical, or cosmetic items?

• How do I submit a warranty claim if something needs attention?

• How long will it take to resolve a warranty issue?

• Are materials like flooring, tile, or appliances covered separately?

• Is there a clear process for scheduling warranty walkthroughs?

We stand behind our work long after the final walkthrough, and we make sure our clients know exactly what that promise includes.

12. What Sets Your Company Apart From the Rest?

When you’ve narrowed down your list of potential builders, this is one of the most important questions you can ask.

Beyond price and floor plans, the builder you choose will shape your entire experience. The right builder should be able to clearly and confidently tell you what makes them different.

Listen for Meaningful Distinctions, Such As:

• A structured, client-first process with clear timelines and communication

• Fixed-price contracts that eliminate uncertainty and hidden fees

• A proven network of trusted trade partners and vendors

• Strong client testimonials and repeat referrals

• Custom design support that’s integrated from day one

• Deep knowledge of building in Middle Tennessee’s unique landscape

• A track record of integrity, transparency, and follow-through

Know the Questions. Avoid the Regrets.

Building a custom home is a meaningful investment, and you deserve a builder who approaches it with care and transparency. Asking the right questions now sets the tone for a smoother experience from start to finish.

If you’re ready to build something lasting, start by choosing a team that’s built for the long haul. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation. We're more than happy to answer these and any other questions you may have.