How to find the right contractor?

Hello,
we are planning to build a PH, which already (gsd) limits the offers. However, you really get the feeling that, at least from the offers, the big construction companies basically offer the same thing. And I don’t want to visit countless ones either. How did you decide, maybe you have suggestions and also important: how many did you compare?
Thanks in advance!

Had to think briefly about what a PH is. Prefab house? Log cabin? No, Passive House :) :D

We also first looked at a PH, but then decided "only" on an efficient house (KFW55) due to financial profitability. The heating costs (without basement) are about 400-500 € per year with a gas boiler.

We more or less followed the behavior of the sellers and immediately rejected those who quickly pushed for a signature. Of course, we searched online for complaining customers and then got recommendations from acquaintances. In the end, it was the provider who was by no means the cheapest but left the best impression. We only signed the contract two months after the first conversation and had really many discussions :).

I’ll send you the provider via PM if you want. But there is now almost a 12-month waiting period. You have to factor that in. If allowed, I’ll also post the provider directly. So far, we have only had positive experiences.

Now you really get the feeling that, in terms of offerings, at least the big construction companies essentially offer the same thing.

What do you mean by that?
Cookie-cutter house?

Good work has its price, and so does quality. Many customers or "long-standing/decades of" experience as well as nice little pictures in 3D or on the internet, on the other hand, do not necessarily mean much. The experienced generation of the company has often been replaced by other people. The internet advertising slogan of our construction contractor began with the words "If you are looking for quality..." ...we would continue it: then go elsewhere. I recommend reviewing the contract with an experienced person before signing, if necessary with a lawyer specialized in construction law...it costs money, but later saves a lot, a lot of nerves....some companies "forget" to include contractual penalties in their contract drafts, e.g., for late completion. I would also recommend specifying all extras in the contract exactly with type designation and price...this also avoids later discussions...when every cent is being fought over.

What do you mean by that?
Off-the-shelf house?

that wasn’t meant negatively, but if I know my square footage, my heating type, and a few other details, you’ll end up with roughly the same thing from some people (which is also logical) and that makes it so difficult for us. because if you look at experience, you’ll find both positives and negatives everywhere. It goes without saying that the contract is independently reviewed and that we appoint an inspector for the construction; that money is very well invested.