Touring homes is one of the most popular parts of buying a home. For homebuyers in the Chicagoland area, deciding between a resale home versus new construction, it pays to take some time to tour a builder’s model homes. Model homes showcase the best of what a builder can do. That’s why smart homebuyers take some time to prepare before traipsing through a model home.
Instead of showing up to a model home cold, preparing a viewing strategy will help you get the most out of your model home tour. Here are a few of our best tips so you can get ready.
Do some research
Before you show up for your tour, check out the builder’s website to familiarize yourself with the available floorplans, community, features, and options. Some builders create model homes for their most popular layouts but have other options available for that community. Its good to know what options are available for each plan so you don’t rule out a home that can easily be customized to fit your needs.
Document your experience
It’s easy to confuse details when you’re touring several homes throughout the day. Give yourself an assist by taking notes of each home. Document how you liked about each home, what you didn’t like, and any concerns or questions you have. If you’re able, you should take pictures of specific features you like.
Always ask questions
Our sales associates are available to answer any question you have about our homes, communities, features, and us. As you walk through a home or take a guided tour, we encourage you to ask any question that comes to mind. They are one of the best resources for you so you can make the right decision for you and your family.
Find out what’s standard and upgraded
Most model homes are filled with a mix of standard and upgraded features to give buyers an idea of what’s possible for their homes. Before you fall in love with a particular feature, find out if it’s standard or if you’ll need to spring for an upgrade.
Check out the community
You’re not only buying a home; you’re also buying a neighborhood. Either before or after your tour, drive through the community to get a feel for the area. Evaluate its location and proximity to schools, parks, stores, and the highway for commuting.
Imagine living in the home
As you tour each model, consider if the home fits how your family lives. You may prefer an open great room so you can easily entertain family and friends or keep an eye on younger children as they play in the family room. Maybe you want a separate recreation space for the kids so you’ll be on the lookout for a loft area or a home with a finished basement option. Think about whether there’s enough bathrooms and the bedroom layout work as well.
Model homes are impeccably decorated to give you an idea of how you can use each space. Picture how your furniture will look in the space and how you can arrange them. Will your couch fit? Does the bedroom have enough space for your king-sized bed? If measurements are super important, bring along a tape measure.
Have fun
Don’t forget to have fun! Touring model homes and envisioning your future is an exciting moment. You should enjoy the journey to finding your dream home.
Model home tours are an essential part of the homebuying process. They help you find the right home for your family’s lifestyle and preferences. You’ll feel more prepared for your next mode home tour.
Lexington Homes has been building exceptional new homes in desirable locations throughout Chicagoland for over 40 years. Contact us to set up a time to walk through our model homes at Lexington Trace and Parkside of Glenview. We’re open and ready to welcome you in person or virtually. Visit us at LexingtonChicago.com to learn more.
