08/04/2026
I am simultaneously sad and glad my previous post resonated with so many. Itās all just so overwhelming. I will try and continue posting as many helpful things about our personal experience as possible - a HUGE one was the building process. Weāre thrilled to be āhomeā again, yet there were so many hardships along the way that may have been preventable.
Choosing a builder after a fire loss can feel incredibly urgent, especially when Spokane-area contractors are already filling their schedules and there is such an overwhelming amount of work to be done.
Start making calls quickly, but do not let that urgency rush you into signing with the wrong company. Interview several builders, tour their completed homes, understand exactly how they price their work, and ask who will be managing the design, insurance communication, subcontractors, timeline, and warranty.
Most importantly, trust what you notice. If someone feels pushy, is inconsistent about returning calls, avoids direct answers, or raises other red flags, take those concerns seriously. Communication rarely gets better once construction begins.
You have the right to choose your own builder. Your insurance company does NOT make that decision for you.
I am not an insurance or construction expert, but I have personally navigated rebuilding after a fire and have so many things I wish I could redo. If you are facing this process in Spokane and would like to hear more about our experience, please feel free to reach out. Iām an open book.
Save this post or send it to a Spokane family who may need it. š¤
Julia Salerno | Spokane, WA REALTOR
Labrina Winfrey | Spokane Realtor
Heirloom | Spokane Real Estate