Drive around your area and see who is building what where and how. There are so many variables between builders...some are important and some are not. I know for us, we will never put wire shelves in a closet...never do a fiberglass tub surround...never do standard speed base & clam shell trim...etc. These are 'niceties'...but not necessarily necessities. What type of home are you looking for and at what level do you want it built? Answer those questions...then find your builder. As much as I can't stand Realtors (I have that license, too), they often know the good and bad...and are usually more receptive to a free lunch/cocktail than a Building Inspector...