Choosing the Homebuilder That’s Right for You | Ernest Homes
Editor’s Note (Updated November 2025): This post has been refreshed to improve accuracy and reflect current best practices for choosing a homebuilder. Ernest Homes proudly builds new homes across Savannah, Richmond Hill, Guyton, and the surrounding Coastal Georgia area. If you’re beginning your homebuilding journey, explore our current communities to get started.
Choosing to build a new home—one designed specifically for your family, your daily routines, and your personal style—is one of the most exciting decisions you’ll ever make. But selecting the right homebuilder is just as important as choosing your floor plan or community. Here’s what to look for when deciding which builder deserves your trust.
Know What You Need
Most homebuilders serve a specific niche. Some focus on first-time buyers, others on luxury estates, and others—like Ernest Homes—on high-quality, energy-efficient homes with flexible, family-friendly layouts. Review the builder’s portfolio to determine whether their style, features, and pricing align with your long-term goals. You can browse our current floor plans to see a wide range of options designed for today’s families.
Experience Matters
Longevity is often a sign of strong systems, consistent quality, and customer satisfaction. Look for builders backed by decades of proven performance—while also staying open to newer companies led by seasoned industry professionals. What matters most is a track record of integrity, craftsmanship, and reliability.
Customer Feedback Speaks Volumes
Online reviews, testimonials, and referrals are invaluable. A reputable builder should gladly provide references from past homeowners. Ask about communication, build timelines, craftsmanship, and overall satisfaction. Consistent positive feedback is a strong indicator of a builder who delivers on promises.
Verify Licensing & Insurance
Every reputable builder follows local regulations, carries appropriate insurance, and ensures subcontractors do the same. Ask for clarity on coverage—it protects you from unexpected liabilities during construction.
Evaluate Their Design Style
Builders often have signature design preferences. Some lean traditional, others modern, others coastal or craftsman. Browse their galleries and floor plans to decide whether their aesthetic matches your vision. Ernest Homes offers a diverse design library and customizable finishes through our Design Studio.
Understand Their Warranty
Warranties vary widely in the homebuilding industry. Look for a builder offering strong structural protection—often up to ten years—along with responsive customer service. Ernest Homes stands behind our work with reliable warranty support backed by decades of building experience.
Consider Long-Term Resale Value
Homes built by respected, well-established builders tend to maintain higher resale value. Ask local REALTORS® which builders have the strongest reputations—quality speaks for itself over time.
Local Commitment Matters
Builders involved in the local Home Builders Association, charitable initiatives, and community development tend to have deep roots and pride in their work. Those who hire local trades and source materials regionally contribute directly to the economy—and build homes that reflect local character and climate.
Take the Tour of Homes
This is one of the most important steps. Visit furnished models, walk completed homes, or tour active job sites. Examine construction quality, finishes, fixtures, and the feel of the space. For inspiration, browse our photo gallery to view interior and exterior examples of our work. If possible, view a home built several years ago to see how it has held up over time.
At Ernest Homes, buyer satisfaction is our main priority. We’re open to your questions and committed to transparency throughout your homebuilding experience. Contact our Sales Team at (912) 660-9673 or send us an email to learn more about building your dream home in Coastal Georgia.
