What a show home can show youIncreasingly, new developments are sold off-plan, with developers providing show apartments and houses in order to give prospective buyers an idea of the space, specification and style that is on offer. These show homes make it easy to imagine what it would be like to live in a particular environment, and with the following tips from KingsOak Homes buyers will get the most out of their show home visit.
Be prepared
Before you even walk through the show home door, know exactly what it is you’re looking for in a new home. What are the essential features you require, such as number of bedrooms, separate dining room or garage space. It sounds obvious but it’s helpful to have these details clear in your mind before you even contemplate looking at a new property.
Have the facts
Make sure you know what’s included and what is not. Ask the house builder for a specification list to help you identify the elements that your new home will have. Certain items within the show home such as fireplaces and some appliances may be optional extras. A reputable house builder will make you aware of these things from the outset.
Make the most of the negotiator
As well as taking a tour by yourself, ask the sales negotiator to show you around. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and make sure you get the answers you need. They’re there to help you so make the most of their knowledge about this particular development and the house builder generally.
Evaluate the space
Look at the size of the furniture. Check out how many chairs are seated around the dining room table, for instance: would it accommodate your family? Try hard to imagine your own possessions in place of those in the show home – even take a tape measure and write down sizes so that you can compare them with your own furniture when you get home.
The bricks and mortar
Try to look beyond the gloss and ask questions about the more basic aspects of the home, such as how expensive it will be to heat. Ask the negotiator about the SAP rating, a standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is judged. Are the windows double glazed? Does the house have energy-efficient central heating? Are the items included, such as appliances, of a good-quality brand? Are the pipes sufficiently insulated? Also, what will the garden look like? And what scope is there to choose finishes such as tiles and work surfaces?
Above all, make sure you ask questions. A home is the largest single purchase most of us will ever make, so you owe it to yourself to make your show home visit as fruitful as possible.
KingsOak Homes has a wide range of high-quality properties throughout southern England. Visit kingsoakhomes.co.uk to find out more.