Whether you are in the market for a new home or looking to build a custom new construction home, visiting display homes is one of the best ways to get ideas and gain helpful insights. Model homes are usually showpieces for various developers and builders. Like a fashion show, display houses show off floor plans, designs, and upgrades offered by contractors. Similar to test driving cars to see what options manufacturers offer and how they perform, touring display homes will let you kick the tires on a new house.
Knowing what to look for and what to note when visiting display homes will be the best way to get the information you need. That is why there is a right way to tour model houses. You want to get to know builders better and get of sense of their skills, designs, and services. When you are armed with this information, you’ll make better decisions about your wants and needs from your new house.
Since the average cost to construct a new Australian home is around $320,000, you’ll want to ensure that you do all of the research before committing to the project. Visiting model homes allows you to compare builders, explore different styles and designs, and get a better sense of square footage. Let’s look at some things that you should pay attention to when visiting display homes.
Standard vs. Upgrade
Visiting several display houses will allow you to better understand standard options versus those that are upgrading. Different contractors will offer different packages and upgrades. Things such as premium hardwood floors, elaborate tile backsplashes, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances will all be on display in the model house.
To get a sense of what your money will buy and how far it will go, you will want to know which elements of the home are standard and which features will incur additional costs. Paying attention to the options offered by a builder will let you see what you like and help you budget for any upgraded features that you might want in your new home.
Craftmanship
Most builders can select nice paint colors and install fancy fixtures and furnishings. When you tour a display home, it is important to look beyond these elements. You’ll want to pay attention to the craftsmanship of the home. When you select a builder, you should be confident that they will supply you with a well-built product. Display houses are your chance to check out their work before you commit. Check for things like seamless woodworking and molding, evenly laid flooring, and window operability. You’ll want to look past the cosmetic facade of the home to understand the builder’s attention to detail and priorities. You don’t want to pay over $300,000 for a well-constructed home.
Functionality
The needs of your family are one of the biggest factors when selecting a new home. All houses are designed and built to provide a comfortable living space. What is functional and practical for one family may not be for yours. When you tour display homes, make sure to visualize your family in the space. Model homes are decorated and set up like real homes. However, it’s important to remember that your couches, tables, beds, and other furniture will be in the house, so it will need to work for you. Pay close attention to the functionality of the home and how your family will fit into the space.
There are several steps for a successful building project. Touring display homes is one of the best ways to get to know a builder and help you plan the steps and options for your future home. However, you will want to look past the cosmetics and decor of the home to be sure that the space is well-built and will accommodate your family.
