5 Costly Mistakes When Choosing a Builder (and How to Avoid Each of Them)

Hedgley Homes
Jul 31
2 min read

Updated: Aug 8

Modern kitchen design with wood accents by Kian Clements-Ormond

Choosing the wrong builder can turn your dream into a disaster.

Here's 5 tips to avoid the traps most homeowners fall into.

When you’re planning to build, the stakes feel massive.

We get it.

Here are the top 5 mistakes and how you can avoid every single one.

Mistake #1: Choosing Based on the Cheapest Quote

It’s tempting. You get three quotes… and one is $50,000 cheaper.

Sounds like a win, right?

Not quite…

Cheap builders often leave out key costs, underquote, or cut corners on materials just to win the job.

You’ll either:

Pay for it later
Or pay for it through poor workmanship

How to avoid it:

Always ask for a detailed, fixed quote and make sure it includes council fees, site works, driveways, and landscaping.

Cheap usually means missing pieces.

Mistake #2: Misleading Contract Type

Did you know there are two common contract types in NZ buildings?

Fixed-Price: You pay a set price with little to no variation
Cost-Plus: You pay for all costs (materials, labour, etc.) as they come up, plus add a builder’s margin on top.

We’ve seen clients unknowingly sign up for cost-plus, then get hit with tens of thousands in extra charges they didn’t expect.

How to avoid it:

Ask clearly, is this a fixed-price build? Are there any exclusions?

At Hedgley Homes, we use true fixed-price contracts to protect your peace of mind.

Mistake #3: Not Checking the Builder’s Track Record

They might have a slick website. But what about:

Real testimonials?
Recent projects?
Client referrals?

You wouldn’t hire a surgeon on their first day. Don’t hire a builder without proof of trust.

How to avoid it:

Ask to see 3 recent builds and talk to past clients. We’re happy to connect you with families who’ve built with us, and they’ll tell you how seamless the process is.

Mistake #4: Communication

Poor communication leads to: long delays, confusion, and headaches.

If your builder is vague in emails now… imagine how that plays out during construction.

How to avoid it:

During your first meetings, pay attention to how they explain things.

At Hedgley Homes, we give you a dedicated project manager and weekly updates so you're never left wondering what’s going on.

Mistake #5: Choosing A Builder Who Says "Yes" to Everything

Believe it or not, a builder who says “yes” to everything might be hiding red flags.

We’ve seen builders agree to unrealistic timelines, skip due diligence on sections, or agree to a poor design just to win the job.

How to avoid it:

Choose a builder who tells you the truth, not just what you want to hear.

We’ll always give you real timelines, fixed costs, and expert advice on top of your current suggestions, for the best results.

An Ethical Builder Won’t Just Build Your Home, They Protect Your Peace of Mind

You deserve a build that feels clear, safe, and also exciting. That starts by choosing a builder who actually listens, cares, and delivers on the home you want, without the stress on you.