I don't know how people can stand to build houses with builders. I'd have 'em build me a shell with a roof and get out.

That doesn't really help me.

If you don't like the granite choices but are ok with the rest of the kitchen options, can you have them give you a credit and leave off the counters? I would find my own fabricator and get what I want. If that's not an option, can you have them put in a cheap laminate and pull it out later?

Joe Spena: We bought a Weekley home 25 years ago, and it has held up beautifully. If DW upholds the standards they did 'back in the day', you're in good hands. Have you simply asked them if they can offer you alternatives to their standard granite, as an upgrade?

I didn't like any of their upgraded options that were offered in levels 1-4. But I made an appointment Kent on Thursday to talk with the design center and hopefully we can find something that we like. It's good to hear that DW holds up well of time. Thanks for the info!!

I think this is just going to vary by builder. Do you have a contract that addresses this?

I think I might just be too picky, but I also feel like the granite is very important to the kitchen.

Picky costs more when you're using a builder.

If the answer is no, have them install a laminate counter and get a credit. Then, you can take your time and find the granite that makes you happy.

We did not use this builder, but we did what several people have suggested as we did not like the choices/price of having the builder do granite. See if they will install laminate so you can get in, then take your time picking a nice counter that is what you want. Please read some of the great threads here on choosing and having counters installed.

here's the thing on the credit - it will before about $12... I'd consider the lowest one and just dealing with replacing it later. Credits suck.