Checking out builder feedback saved me from a disaster

I was this close to signing a contract with a local builder for our home extension last month. Seemed friendly and professional, you know, ticked all the boxes. But something nudged me to dig around online first. Good thing I did—found some pretty sketchy reviews about delays and hidden fees. Dodged a bullet there, seriously. Ended up choosing someone with glowing reviews, and things have been smooth sailing since.

Curious if anyone else has had their plans saved by doing a bit of online digging?