3. Review Past Projects & Confirm Experience With Your Project Type
A builder’s past work is one of the strongest indicators of what they can deliver for you. Experience doesn’t just show skill — it shows how well they’ve handled challenges, adapted to different architectural styles, and delivered results similar to what you’re envisioning.
What to Look for in a Builder’s Portfolio
A strong portfolio isn’t just about beautiful photos — it should help you understand whether the builder has real experience with the type of project you want.
For renovations or additions, look specifically for:
Before and after examples showing clear transformation
Projects where structural integration was done well
Spaces that blend old and new seamlessly
For all project types, look for:
Examples that match the architectural style you envision (not just what the builder prefers to build)
Consistent quality across multiple projects
Clear signs the project was actually built by them (not stock images or borrowed work)
A mix of completed and in-progress photos — in-progress images often reveal more honesty than polished marketing shots
Explore Our Portfolio
You can browse a selection of our completed projects directly on our website — or download the Maxamin Homes Catalogue for a deeper look at our services, warranties, and process.
Why Project Type Experience Matters
Different types of projects require different knowledge and workflows:
Additions need expertise in structural tie-ins, matching rooflines, and integrating new with old.
Renovations require understanding how to work in lived-in spaces and handle existing conditions.
New builds demand sequencing, budgeting accuracy, and long-term planning.
Multiplex, fourplex, and ADU construction require additional knowledge of zoning, fire separation, soundproofing, mechanical design, and city-specific guidelines.
Not every builder is experienced in all areas — and that’s okay. What matters is that they have completed projects that share meaningful similarities with yours.
Questions You Can Ask About Their Past Work
“Have you completed a project with elements similar to what I’m envisioning?”
“Can you walk me through a renovation/addition/new build you’re proud of?”
“What unexpected challenges came up, and how did you address them?”
“Do you have any in-progress projects I can see?”
Want More Smart Questions to Ask?
If you’d like a deeper list of practical, homeowner-friendly questions — along with examples of how a reputable builder should answer them — you can read our short guide below.
How to Compare Your Vision With Their Experience
Instead of asking,
“How many projects like mine have you completed?”
it’s better to evaluate whether elements of your vision appear across multiple projects.
For example:
Maybe the staircase you want exists in one of their projects.
The type of kitchen layout you prefer appears in another.
The exterior style you like was done on a different home.
A structural challenge similar to yours was solved elsewhere.
The full project doesn’t need to match your dream home. What matters is whether the components of your vision — design style, structural needs, layout preferences, or finishes — have been handled by them before.
Because here’s the truth:
Every project teaches a builder something new.
A builder who has already solved similar challenges will absolutely save you time, money, or both on your project.
If you’d like a deeper list of smart, practical questions to ask — along with examples of how a reputable builder should answer them —
→ Click here to read: Questions to Ask Before You Choose Your Builder — and How We Answer Them.
Red Flags to Watch For
Portfolios with only a handful of projects
Images that look like Pinterest or stock photography
No real examples of the architectural style you want
Vague answers or discomfort discussing past challenges
Zero experience in your project type (especially multiplex, ADU, or structural work)
Avoiding requests to see in-progress work
A builder’s past work should give you confidence — not questions.