Build Review

So how do we rate Carlisle Homes in terms of the build experience? Just like what I indicated in the feedback form we filled up during settlement, I am rating them 3 out of 5. This is our first build and overall we feel that Carlisle Homes just meets our expectations. There were opportunities that they might have exceeded our expectations but that didn't happen.

I could have given them a rating of 3.5 if there is such just because of the fast build time. But that has been neutralized by the other side of the build experience. They wouldn't budge to accommodate our changes after contract even if we are willing to pay variations. In that view, I feel that the people involve with our build did not really put themselves on our shoes as the house owners. That's showing us that they are running a business and more of working for the company than really serving the client. There are just things that are easier and cheaper to add during build rather than later. Our SS is inflexible and hardline in accepting changes. I have the impression that he is relatively new in what he is doing and he is unable to mitigate any changes in project plan and schedule. He definitely is looking at delivering but at the expense of client satisfaction and sometimes quality. We have heard of other Carlisle SS that had been accommodating with their clients.

During PCI, after learning of the issues our independent inspector picked up, we feel that we would have missed a lot if we did things on our own. We feel some issues are not put to our attention unless we or our inspector notice them. On the positive side, Carlisle is accommodating in rectifying the raised issues. That is anyway within expectations as part of their customer service commitment.

We are pleased with the delivered house even with some outstanding items. Again that delivery is within expectations and as per contract. We are not pleased though with the paint touch up work at the rumpus room.

So are we going to build with Carlisle again if given the chance? Yes since they can deliver within expectations, but not without our independent inspector for all stages where inspection is required.

Are we going to recommend Carlisle Homes to others? Yes, but with precaution and with insights gained from our own build experience.

Again this is our review just for the build. Our pre-build experience with Carlisle is fantastic and we are rating them 4 out of 5 on that. The next stage is the maintenance and warranty stage. We look forward to receiving a better service and having our expectations exceeded.