In this article, you'll discover what it takes to work as a home builder, including what education is needed, what the qualifications and responsibilities are, and what the major home builder organizations are at present.

My grandpa was a home builder when he was alive, one who earned numerous leadership positions in home builder associations and a great deal of recognition for his hard work. But I didn’t know him as a businessman. To me, he was that loveable, gentle spirit who snuck dollar bills to me when my grandma wasn’t looking. He was always compassionate, eagerly giving to others when they were in need. He was also a humble man, offering praise and credit to others even when it was due him.

But whether I witnessed him at the office or at a family gathering, I know it was these characteristics that defined my grandfather to me, both as a person and as a businessman. For it takes compassion, a gentle spirit, humility, and hard work to accomplish the things he did as a home builder.

True, it takes an education and an understanding of the business, as well. However, it’s a combination of these attributes that makes a successful home builder like my grandpa. Call me biased, but with titles such as president of the Construction Industries Exposition and Home Show, director of the Associated General Contractors, director of the Building Industry Association of Southern California, and director of the National Association of Home Builders, it’s hard to disagree with the notion that my grandpa serves as good example to aspiring home builders. So read on to discover what it takes to work as a home builder, what the responsibilities are, and what organizations are available to offer you help on your journey.

What the Education and Qualifications of a Home Builder Are

For someone interested in becoming a home builder, the following are some of the relevant educational degrees you can obtain:

General Contractor

According to Wikipedia, a general contractor ''is a group or individual that contracts with another organization or individual (the owner) for the construction or renovation of a building, road, or other structure.''

Before you can become a general contractor, however, you must obtain a license in the state you wish to work in. You may also be required to take an oral and written exam. To find out more about obtaining a license, contact the National Association of State Contractor Licensing Agencies (NASCLA).

Construction Manager

According to ITT Tech School of Drafting and Design, ''Construction managers apply management techniques to the planning, design, and construction for a project in order to control the time and cost to complete the project and the quality of the construction.''

The degree at ITT Tech includes classes in construction management, construction techniques, ''and legal issues relating to the construction management field,'' says the school’s website.

To learn more about obtaining a degree as a construction manager, visit ITT Technical Institute or the National Polytechnic College of Science.

Other Qualifications

Like I said before, my grandfather showed compassion and humility throughout his career. As a home builder, you’ll be working with all kinds of people from all kinds of backgrounds. Being able to relate well with others is important. Being able to listen, take on others’ opinions, and remain patient in all circumstances will help you be a personable and professional home builder, as well.

What the Responsibilities of a Home Builder Are

The responsibilities of a home builder are numerous. General contractors, for example, will have to interact with architects, gather and evaluate bids, coordinate specialty contractors, provide skilled labor, answer questions and resolve issues, and arrange for permits and the associated inspections, according to the homeownersclub.org.

What Organizations Are Available for Home Builders

To find out more information on becoming a home builder or about the latest trends in the construction industry, visit the following organizations’ websites:

National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies

National Association of Home Builders

California Homebuilding Foundation

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