Find the Best Home Builders in Bakersfield, CA

How to choose a home builder in Bakersfield

Home builders in Bakersfield must have a current, valid license from the State of California’s Contractor State License Board (CSLB). This includes both general contractors, which oversee construction, and any specialty contractors subcontracted by the general contractor. Check a license on the California CSLB website.

Search for home builders in Bakersfield that are both licensed and well-reviewed. Ask family and friends for recommendations. You can also search for members of professional trade organizations like the National Association of Home Builders or contact local associations, including the Home Builders Association of Kern County.

Any home builder in Bakersfield you consider should also be insured for workers’ compensation and general liability and have a contractor license bond. Ask for proof of insurance and bond. Also, ask for a list of homeowners who live in houses built the contractor. Contact these people to ask about their experiences working with the home builder and their satisfaction with the homes.

Questions to ask a home builder

Talk with at least three reputable home builders in Bakersfield about building a house. Ask these questions:

• Are you licensed, insured and bonded for home building in Bakersfield?
• How much experience do you have designing and constructing homes?
• Do you have a list of references with contact information? What are the addresses of homes you’ve built? Do you have any model homes to visit?
• Can I fully customize a home?
• Do you build only in certain areas?
• Will you be obtaining permits and following all laws in the City of Bakersfield, Kern County and the State of California?
• Who will be constructing the home? Who will be supervising? Will you be using subcontractors?
• Who will be my contact person for questions during construction?
• How much will it cost to build my home? Do you work with any particular lenders?
• How long will it take to construct the home?
• What warranties will come with the new home?

How much does it cost to build a home in Bakersfield

• The type of house and where’s it built (on-site vs. off-site)
• The size of the house, including square footage and number of floors
• How much customizing you do
• Land costs
• Material costs
• Labor costs
• Permit fees

The California CSLB suggests getting at bids from at least three home builders in Bakersfield, each with all costs included to allow for a fair comparison.