If you’re thinking about building a home here in Texas, there’s something you need to know upfront: our state doesn’t require builders to have a license or follow any official regulations.
That means anyone with a cell phone and a decent website can call themselves a builder — even if they don’t have the skills or experience to back it up.
The consequences can be costly.
Picture this: you sign a contract with someone who seems trustworthy, only to realize later they’ve never built in your area, don’t understand the permitting process, or worse, have run off with your deposit.
Take What Happened to Jack and Maeve, for Example
After years of saving, they were ready to build their dream home just outside of Dallas. They found a builder online with what looked like great reviews and photos of beautiful custom homes.
He showed up with a big smile and plenty of confidence, offering a price that seemed just right. Excited, they handed over a $12,000 deposit and started imagining their dream home taking shape.
But five weeks passed, and nothing had been done. Calls went unanswered, and their lot stayed empty. When they dug deeper, they found out the reviews were fake, the photos weren’t his work, and the builder didn’t know how to file permits. Worst of all, he had already blown through their deposit.
Jack and Maeve had no choice but to cancel the contract, losing time, money, and their excitement about the process.
How to Find a Builder You Can Count On
Stories like Jack and Maeve’s happen more often than they should. The good news? You can avoid the same mistakes if you know what to look for.
Here’s how to spot a builder who’s worth their salt:
Quality #1: Proven experience
A builder with a history of successful projects is a safer bet than someone just starting out. How to check: Ask to see completed projects and read reviews from real clients. Better yet, take a drive to see their work in person.
Quality #2: Quality worksites
The way a builder runs their current job sites says a lot about how they’ll handle your project. How to check: Visit an active site and pay attention to how organized and professional it looks. A good builder takes pride in every step of the process.
Quality #3: Strong references
A reliable builder will have past clients, subcontractors, and financial partners willing to vouch for them. How to check: Request client references and ask specific questions about their experience, including how well the builder communicated and handled issues.
Quality #4: Transparent pricing
Good builders don’t hide costs. They’ll provide clear, detailed estimates so you can avoid surprises. How to check: Ask for a fixed-price contract that spells out all costs—including potential extras like permits or site prep.
Quality #5: Thorough planning
A builder with a solid process will keep your project on track and handle any hiccups along the way. How to check: Talk to them about their approach to scheduling, budgeting, and problem-solving. Builders who use project management tools and offer regular updates are usually more reliable.
Quality #6: Proper insurance and warranties
Protect yourself by making sure your builder is insured and stands behind their work. How to check: Request proof of liability insurance and ask about warranty options.
Quality #7: Local expertise
A builder familiar with Texas regulations and the local landscape can save you time, money, and headaches. How to check: Ask about their experience with local permitting offices and inspectors.
The Bottom Line: You Gotta Do Your Homework
Building a home in Texas is a big investment, and finding the right builder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. By taking the time to vet your options and choose someone with experience, integrity, and transparency, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress and end up with a home you can truly be proud of.
But there’s more to designing your dream home than finding the right builder — which is why we’ve created a free guide to help you navigate the process:
7 Things You Must Know Before Designing a New Home
It’s packed with practical advice to help you avoid common pitfalls and turn your dream home into reality.
Disclaimer: Names and details have been changed for privacy. These stories are based on real events, and any resemblance to actual persons is purely coincidental.
