Making the most of your Showhome Visit
Many building companies build showhomes to showcase their level of quality and design. Viewing a showhome helps you get an idea of what kind of home you can expect from them, and also get some inspiration of what kind of home you’d like them to build for you.
As a homebuyer, visiting a showhome is an opportunity to create your wish list. There’s nothing like standing in a real home to understand exactly what it is you do and don’t want in your new home.
Building a home involves a lot of planning and decision-making, and it’s best you do all of this earlier rather than later. It makes for a smoother building experience that will get you even closer to getting the house of your dreams.
Here’s how to make the most of your next show home visit.
1. Ask questions
There will always be a company representative at the showhome, and it’s their job to answer all your questions. Don’t be afraid to ask anything. From big (How long does the build take?) to little (Can I have that exact kitchen tap?). Take advantage of having someone from the company there who is ready and focused on answering whatever questions you may have.
Not quite sure what questions you should be asking? Here are some to think about to get you rolling.
- Ask about the cost of the home, including upgrades and extras
- What’s not included?
- What are the initial outgoing and ongoing costs?
- Who made the kitchen cabinetry?
2. Take plenty of photos
If something catches your eye, whip out your phone and take photos. You may be inspired by the interior decor, but it’s also important to take note of the big stuff. The roof, window frames, kitchen position, cabinetry, and general layout are key things to take note of. These are important aspects of a build that will impact the permanent look, feel, and functionality of your new home.
3. Make a ‘must-have’ list
Showhomes can help you understand what your options are, and what you may need in a home. How many bedrooms and bathrooms will be enough for your family? Do you want a one storey or two? Indoor outdoor flow? Underfloor heating in the bathroom? There are so many things to think about when building a home. So when visiting a showhome, make a list of must-haves - things you simply can’t compromise on, so you can factor this in your budget right from the start.
4. Keep your options open
With that being said, you may walk into a spacious one-storey showhome that makes you realise that your two-storey ‘must-have’ isn’t what you want anymore.
Good show homes make use of cutting edge design and new features that you may not have seen before. So keep an open mind, and keep your options open. You may find that you’ll do a 180 and the things on your must-have list will be completely different after seeing a few showhomes.
5. Bring a tape measure with you
A tape measure is a great tool to take with you to a show home visit - and don’t be shy about using it! If you find a master bedroom or living room you like the size of, measure it and sketch the layout to keep note of what you’re looking for.
Even sizes for bathrooms, wardrobes, and patio are helpful for when you start making the plans for your own home.
Visiting show homes is all part of the home building process, and with a little more knowledge on how to make the most of your showhome visit, it can be a super useful part of planning your new home.
Want more tips and advice on home building? Check out The Summit Homes Blog.
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