Visiting a display home is hands-down can be one of the most exciting steps in your research journey. But before you get wowed by all that these houses have to offer, here are five crucial things to keep in mind.
- Know your budget
It is important to know your budget as this will determine most of the decisions you will make about your new home. While display homes are designed to inspire, they are also styled to sell. Keep what you can and can’t afford at top of mind when visiting a display home.
- Understand your land
Without really understanding the intricacies of your block, you risk falling in love with homes that may not suit your land. Check with the developer or hire a surveyor to collect all the details. This should include size, slope, orientation, street frontage, and any easements and objects such as storm water manholes. Before you drive to a display home, check the builder can work in your area and will also build on your actual block as some builders only build in set areas and some specialise in building on different types of blocks such as sloping blocks.
- See past the styling
When it comes to making a play for all your housing hopes and dreams, display homes have got the market cornered. They are decked out with all the mod-cons and the latest in interior design trends to get you to fall in love with their house. It is important to try and look pass all this as a poorly located living area is still a poorly located living area no matter how stunningly it is styled.
Generally, the salesperson at the display home will give you a base price, so be sure to ask for the actual price of the house you visit. They are usually feature stacked with optional upgrades, so you may be surprised by the price difference.
- Cater to your family
Ensure you know what your family needs and how you will use the house. If you have primary-school-aged children, they may need a playroom now and places to study in the future. If you work from home, you will need a home office that’s located in a quiet space. If an elderly parent lives with you, you might need wider hallways and doorways to one day accommodate a wheelchair.
- Consider design guidelines
Most estates are governed by a set of design guidelines, known as covenants. These can dictate how, when and what you can build on your land. Guidelines commonly focus on orientation, architectural style, landscaping, sustainability and size. Your home will need to follow these specifications, but you can also apply to your local council if you want special approval for something outside the guidelines. Some builders will do this on your behalf for a fee.
Remember display homes are styled to make them look stunning and for you to fall in love! We are here to help you on your building journey so you if have any questions that we can help you with do not hesitate to contact us!
