The 2010 Fall Parade of Homes has started with a bang. Crowds for the first week have been terrific. The cooler weather might have curtailed some lake visits, but seeing this year's selection of new homes was definitely in vogue.
Here are a couple of tips to maximize your enjoyment of the Parade of Homes.
Wear Comfortable Slip-on Shoes
There are 99 fantastic new homes available to visit. More than half of the subdivisions have multiple homes being shown, so you'll probably park and walk to the ones you want to see in that neighbourhood.
As well, you must take off your street shoes in order to tour. That's a lot of bending and lacing, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes that slip on and off.
Map a Strategy
If you have a particular destination neighbourhood, make sure you look for other showhomes along the way. Many subdivisions are close to each other.
Don't Forget the One-Offs
Try to visit those areas with a single listing. There are entire new neighbourhoods to discover and builders with unique designs. That hidden gem might just be your next new home.
Talk to the Agents
The sales agents know their show homes. Ask them about anything -- unique features, energy savings, specific materials and what makes this particular home special.
Have Fun
The Parade of Homes is an enjoyable three weeks where you can see the latest and greatest in new homes. You can go as fast or slow as you want, taking in the big picture or concentrating on a minute detail.
Remember to follow along the visits of our 10 bloggers as they comment on each home in the Fall Parade. Feel free to add your impressions of the homes that you visit. It's fun to compare notes and form your own impressions based on someone else's prior visit. Just go to www.homebuilders.mb.ca or www.winnipegfreepress.com, click on the icon and follow along.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
