Naturally, pre-contract, you’ll check the builder’s references. But don’t ask for a list of references; ask for a list of all his projects for the past two years. That may flush out a client whose negative experience with your builder must be weighed. Pay as much attention to what the client glides over as to what he stresses. If you hear, “Things were more expensive and took longer than the builder estimated, but he was really nice and delivered a great house,” follow up with questions that clarify the extent of those delays and cost overruns. Checking in with local tradespeople (plumbers, electricians, workers at the local lumberyard) may also yield useful information.