If the trend of the first two weeks continue, the 2009 Fall Parade of Homes will surpass last year's record attendance numbers.
On the opening weekend, sales agents reported that more than 400 people visited their show home in one day. The nice weather throughout the rest of the week ensured attendance stayed strong. But even when the weather turned colder and windier this past week, interest did not diminish.
It certainly looks like this year's Parade will achieve an even greater turnout than at any time in the past.
Sales representatives showing the 100 new homes have been bombarded with questions in the first two weeks. Financial items are front and centre.
Interested buyers are particularly enamoured with the low mortgage rates that are currently available. Some show homes display samples of mortgage calculations; some promote banks and credit unions who are able to assist buyers and all have a calculator handy.
Although no definitive direction has been issued by the provincial government to indicate that a Harmonized Sales Tax will be implemented here, some savvy buyers are looking at investing in a new home now rather than possibly facing higher prices as is currently being experienced in Ontario and British Columbia.
Given that most people visit a variety of new homes in the Parade, it is inevitable that comparison shopping and the addition of different features arise. For instance, sales representatives have been asked the cost of changing flooring to something that was seen elsewhere. Kitchen countertops and cabinets also stimulate discussions for changes.
Manitobans are likely to be more energy conscious than any other province. This is particularly true of those considering moving from their older home to a brand new home. Technology improves every year and, although Manitoba-built homes have been the most energy-efficient in Canada for a number of years, they still continue to get better.
Many interested prospective buyers come fully equipped with their existing heating bills, water usage numbers, furnace efficiency rating and even some R values for their EnerGuide rating. A quick comparison showing considerable savings in a new home contributes to the economic viability of buying new.
Remember, the 2009 Fall Parade of Homes continues through Saturday, Oct. 10. Showhomes are open Monday through Thursday from 3 to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.
This column prepared by the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
