Try not to rush through the process of choosing a builder. Set a reasonable timetable for your search, and do not make your decision until you feel comfortable about what you are doing. Another important concern is service. When you buy a new home, you are not just buying a structure. Along with the structure comes a package of services, and the quality of those services will have an important effect on your enjoyment of the house.
Most homes come with a one-year warranty on workmanship and materials.
Since virtually every home is going to need at least minor adjustments and repairs during the first year, you should look for a builder who will provide quality service after the sale. The best way to find out what kind of service a builder offers is to ask previous customers. Find out what the builder has recently built in the area near where you are thinking of buying. Then visit one or two of the previous projects and ask the residents about their experiences with their home and their builder. The best time to visit is usually a Saturday morning when people are out doing yard work or chores.