Builders fall into two basic categories.

Tract Builders - These builders usually buy lots in quantity and build homes either on order from a buyer or build speculating that the home will sell (Spec Home).  Some of the builders have a National Presence while many others are regional or local in nature.  Tract Builders are frequently known for building a set of house plans over and over with changes to the exterior or minor changes to the interior i.e. bonus rooms, basements, etc.  The advantage to this is that the builder gets very good at certain plans and is usually able to keep the cost lower.

Custom Builders - Some of the best builders in the Country can be found in Nashville and Middle Tennessee.  A custom builder can usually make changes to the home as it is built with little major effort.  In order to enhance their image most of them will work extra hard to make sure that the buyer is satisfied, but there is a limit to what most will do.  I have worked with about 15 custom builders most of whom I would happily recommend again.

     Regardless of which way you go with a custom builder or tract builder, a good realtor can help you find what you need.