How do I make sure I hire a reliable home builder?

• <div><p>Hiring a reliable home builder is an essential task, but there are a few questions you can ask a potential builder to ensure you they are trustworthy and up to the task:</p><ul><li><p>How long do you expect the process to take?</p></li><li><p>Are you fully licensed and insured?</p></li><li><p>How much of the work will you subcontract?</p></li><li><p>Will you pull all of the necessary permits for the job?</p></li><li><p>How long is the builder’s warranty you include with your work?</p></li><li><p>How do you handle resolution for issues I might have with the finished product?</p></li><li><p>How much experience do you have?</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Should a home builder or contractor be licensed and insured?

• <div><p>Yes, a home builder or contractor should have the proper licensing and insurance. Licensing requirements vary by state and municipality, but most states mandate that a builder holds at least a general contractor’s license. For specialized work such as plumbing, electrical, roofing, or sewage systems, individual licenses may be required, in which case the builder may subcontract the work. You can use Angi’s state licensing tool to review your local guidelines and confirm a builder's credentials. As you browse professionals, you can also look for the “Angi Certified” badge. This indicates the business meets our certification standards, which include passing a criminal background check, holding applicable state and local licenses, and maintaining an average rating of 3.0 or better.</p></div>

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Q: How far in advance should I start planning my home addition project?

• <div><p>While it&rsquo;s never too early to start planning for a major home improvement project like a home addition, give yourself at least a month or two to plan and design your addition, find a contractor, and get the permits in order. For larger projects like a second-story addition that require designing with an architect, plan on three to four months of preparation.</p></div>

Q: What makes a house a villa?

• <div><p>While many different factors determine whether a house is classified as a villa, many villas are detached homes with a European design influence, often with an emphasis on luxury and comfort. Modern villas often feature outdoor spaces such as terraces, gardens, or patios.</p></div>

Q: Do you get a builder or an architect first?

• <div><p>In most cases, you should get an architect before you hire a builder. An architect will be the one to draw up formal plans for your project, including guidelines and even material lists for your builder to follow during construction. Many architects can even help you find builders, choose one for your project, and negotiate prices. Some are also willing to act as project managers throughout the process, working closely with a builder from start to finish.</p></div>

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Sentri Homes

2.8(

)

Serving Stephen, MN and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"All the work was on time and to satisfaction! The crew was kind and professional! I would definitely use this company again for all my home improvements!"

25 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Ascended Constructions

New to Angi

Serving Stephen, MN and surrounding areas

Approved (Corporate)

In business since 2023

Offers commercial services

Were a family owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity, and stands behind our work. We offer over 40 years of industry experience. We specialize in Asphalt Shingle Roofing installation, replacement, and repairs. Our services are customized to the individual project, paying close attention to the details of each project that we're involved with. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Garden Structures & More

4.6(

)

Serving Stephen, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1998

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"We had Garden Structures & More add onto the beautiful privacy fence they had previously built for us, and we couldn't be happier with the final result. Our new and improved fence is even better than we had envisioned due to owner/designer/craftsman Hal's excellent ideas. All work was completed in a timely and professional manner. We truly enjoyed working with Hal and wouldn't hesitate to have him do our next home project. "

+10

Recommended by95%of homeowners

Serving Stephen, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I originally needed my deck repaired but decided to have it replace instead. I had KZ Builders come out and they were so helpful in giving me ideas on what to do. They were very polite and professional. They started on time and finished on time and did an excellent job. They even remodeled the shape and size of the deck which made a big improvement. Basically all I had to do was pick out the color. I highly recommend them and will be using them again when I am ready to replace my front porch deck. I wish I could send some pictures but this app is not letting me."

+17

Response time2 days

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

Serving Stephen, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"They don't use the same contractor. You don't always get the best. It's cheaper for major repairs. They cover everything, parts, labor."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

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Home Inspections by Bryan

5.0(

)

Serving Stephen, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

"The house turned out great! We’re very happy with our new home."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Stephen, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Ernz Painting is dedicated to providing our customers with the best quality and craftsmanship. We are here to build relationships with our customers and communities. No job is too big or too small! We look forward to working with you!

Response time30 mins

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Home Building questions, answered by experts

While it’s never too early to start planning for a major home improvement project like a home addition, give yourself at least a month or two to plan and design your addition, find a contractor, and get the permits in order. For larger projects like a second-story addition that require designing with an architect, plan on three to four months of preparation.

Hiring a reliable home builder is an essential task, but there are a few questions you can ask a potential builder to ensure you they are trustworthy and up to the task:

How long do you expect the process to take?
Are you fully licensed and insured?
How much of the work will you subcontract?
Will you pull all of the necessary permits for the job?
How long is the builder’s warranty you include with your work?
How do you handle resolution for issues I might have with the finished product?
How much experience do you have?

While many different factors determine whether a house is classified as a villa, many villas are detached homes with a European design influence, often with an emphasis on luxury and comfort. Modern villas often feature outdoor spaces such as terraces, gardens, or patios.

In most cases, you should get an architect before you hire a builder. An architect will be the one to draw up formal plans for your project, including guidelines and even material lists for your builder to follow during construction. Many architects can even help you find builders, choose one for your project, and negotiate prices. Some are also willing to act as project managers throughout the process, working closely with a builder from start to finish.

Yes, a home builder or contractor should have the proper licensing and insurance. Licensing requirements vary by state and municipality, but most states mandate that a builder holds at least a general contractor’s license. For specialized work such as plumbing, electrical, roofing, or sewage systems, individual licenses may be required, in which case the builder may subcontract the work. You can use Angi’s state licensing tool to review your local guidelines and confirm a builder's credentials. As you browse professionals, you can also look for the “Angi Certified” badge. This indicates the business meets our certification standards, which include passing a criminal background check, holding applicable state and local licenses, and maintaining an average rating of 3.0 or better.

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