The Spring Parade of Homes has started with a bang. We have been enjoying some of our best March weather in recent memory and, if the first week was any indication, crowds will continue to grow as the Parade progresses.
Last year, we printed a primer for Parade attendees; just a couple of tips to maximize your enjoyment of the Parade of Homes. For the benefit of Parade veteran and rookie attendees, the Manitoba Home Builders' Association offers the following tips for a successful Parade:
Wear Comfortable, Slip-on Shoes
There are 95 fantastic new homes available to visit. Although you likely won't get to all of them, you will find yourself trying to get to as many as possible. More than half of the subdivisions have multiple homes being shown, so you will probably park in one location and walk to all of the homes in that neighbourhood.
Upon entering each new home, you must take off your street shoes in order to tour. Given that some subdivisions have more than 10 homes open for viewing and you don't want to miss a thing, that's a lot of bending and lacing. Therefore, be sure to wear a comfortable walking shoe that easily slips on and off. It will make your visit that much more enjoyable.
Map a Strategy
If you have a particular destination site, make sure you look for additional homes along the way to visit. Many of the subdivisions are in close proximity to each other and it's easy to get to a number of them in one tour.
Don't Forget the One-Offs
Although there is tremendous variety in those subdivisions that have multiple homes, make sure you visit 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. These individuals are a wealth of knowledge and, in the event they don't have the answer, they will find out and get back to you in short order.
Have Fun
The Parade of Homes is an enjoyable couple of 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. It's all about what interests you. Enjoy the 2010 Spring Parade of Homes.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
