If the trends of the first two weeks continue, the 2011 Fall Parade of Homes will surpass last year's attendance numbers.
On the opening weekend, sales agents were reporting that individuals were lined up outside the door in anticipation of visiting their home.
The nice weather throughout the rest of the week ensured that attendance stayed strong. It certainly looks like this year's Parade will be one of the largest ever.
Sales representatives showing the 100 new homes have been bombarded with a flurry of questions in the first two weeks. Financial items are front and centre.
Interested buyers are particularly enamored with the low mortgage rates that are currently available. Some show homes display samples of mortgage calculations; some promote banks and credit unions that are able to assist buyers and all have a calculator handy.
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 arises.
For instance, sales representatives have been asked the cost of changing flooring to something that was seen elsewhere. Kitchen countertop and cabinets also stimulate discussions for changes. Bathrooms are always popular design topics.
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 discussions. A quick comparison showing considerable savings in a new home contributes to the economic viability of buying new.
As was said in last week's column, if you don't know something, don't be afraid to ask. The staff on site are a wealth of information and, if they don't immediately know the answer, they can find out and get back to you.
Remember, the 2011 Fall Parade of Homes continues through Saturday, Oct. 8. Show homes are open Monday through Thursday from 3-8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon-6 p.m.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
