Find the Best Home Builders in Lansing, MI

How to choose a home builder in Lansing

A home builder in Lansing needs to be licensed, insured, experienced, financially secure, organized, communicative and able to customize a house the way you want.

Here are some tips for finding a home builder in Lansing that meets these criteria:

• Check licensing. You can verify licenses of residential builders, electricians, plumbers and HVAC specialists on the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs website. Certain trade professionals must be registered with the City of Lansing.
• Ask for proof of insurance. Request copies of active liability and workers’ compensation coverage.
• Get a list of references. Contact owners of properties constructed by the home builder in Lansing to find out about their experiences and satisfaction.
• Read reviews. Search for the home builder online and find out if customers are leaving mainly positive reviews.
• Ask people you trust for recommendations. See if friends, family or co-workers have suggestions.
• Check for complaints against the business. Call the Michigan Department of Attorney General Consumer Protection Division at 877-765-8388 and give the name of the home builder in Lansing.
• Look for a professional affiliations or certifications. Some home builders in Lansing belong to organizations like the National Association of Home Builders.

Questions to ask a home builder

To learn more about a home builder in Lansing, ask these questions:

• Are you properly licensed, insured and bonded?
• How much experience do you have with home design and building in Lansing?
• Do you have a list of references I can contact?
• Where can I see some of the homes you’ve constructed?
• Can I customize home design, including floor plan, materials, products, etc.?
• Who will construct the home? Will there be subcontractors? If so, how are they chosen?
• Who will be my point of contact during building?
• Do you provide a detailed estimate of how much will the home cost?
• How long will it take to build the home?
• Will you obtain the necessary permits and inspections from the City of Lansing/Ingham County?
• What warranty coverage comes with the home?

How much does it cost to build a home in Lansing

The average cost to build a house in Lansing is about $250,000. The cost to build a house in Lansing depends on these factors:

• Type of house (e.g., built off-site vs. built on-site)
• Size of the house, including square footage and the number of floors
• Level of customization
• Material costs
• Labor costs
• Design costs
• Land costs
• Permit fees

Seek estimates from several home builders in Lansing. Once you’ve selected a home builder you’re comfortable partnering with, read the contract carefully, making sure everything is clear and accurate. Many homebuyers ask an attorney familiar with contract and construction law to review the agreement as well.