Essential Tips for Your First Display Home Visit
So, you’ve made the big decision—you’re building a brand-new home. You’ve browsed the brochures, compared floor plans, and spent hours scrolling through dream homes online. Now comes the exciting part—walking through display homes and picturing yourself living there. It’s where those 2D floor plans turn into real spaces, helping you decide which design feels the most like you.
To make the most of your visit, here are some must-know tips before you step inside.
1. Go in with a game plan
Before stepping into a display home, have a clear idea of what you’re looking for. Do your research—chat with family and friends, browse brochures, and highlight floor plans that catch your eye. Make a list of must-have features, like a double garage, three bedrooms, or open-plan living, so you can stay focused.
Shortlist builders who showcase homes that match your style and budget. Keep in mind that many display homes feature top-tier upgrades, so what you see might not be the standard package. Check product reviews, compare inclusions, and make sure the homes on display align with what you actually want to buy.
2. Lock in your budget
It might not be the most exciting part of the journey, but knowing your budget upfront is key. Before you step into a display home, chat with a broker and get a clear idea of what you can afford. The last thing you want is to fall in love with a home that’s way out of your price range.
Having a budget in mind will help you focus on homes that fit your financial plans—so you can dream big while staying realistic.
3. Bring the right tools
Be prepared! Having the right resources with you can make all the difference when visiting display homes.
- Your phone – Take plenty of photos of everything, from benchtops to door handles, so you can refer back later when making decisions.
- A pen and notepad – Jot down key details about the designs and builders you love. Scribble on brochures, make notes, and keep track of important features.
- A tape measure – Room sizes can look different in person, so measuring spaces can help you visualize how your furniture will fit.
- Food & water – If you’re planning a full day of display home visits, stay hydrated and energized!
Taking your time and gathering the right info will help you make a confident decision.
4. Ask All the Questions
New Home Consultants are there to help, so don’t be shy—get chatting! The more you ask, the more you’ll understand what’s included and what’s extra.
Start with these key questions:
- What’s currently on offer? – Are there any promotions, fixed pricing, or costs that could change?
- How much does this home cost? – Ask for pricing on both the display home (as shown) and a house & land package in the area.
- What comes standard? – Get clarity on which features are included in the base price.
- What’s an upgrade? – Find out which elements—like flooring, fixtures, or appliances—are optional extras.
You can even ask the consultant to walk you through the home and point out standard vs. upgraded features. Don’t forget to check if the floor plan can be modified to better suit your lifestyle!
5. Get a Feel for the Location and Amenities
Before you even step inside the display home, take a moment to consider the street and surrounding area. Does the location fit with your lifestyle and future plans? Walk around the neighborhood—how close are local amenities like schools, shops, parks, and public transport?
Next, think about the size of the block and the overall layout of the area. Are the block sizes suitable for your needs, and does the facade of the homes align with your personal style? Consider the future growth of the area too—will it still suit your needs in the years to come?
While the display home will undoubtedly impress, remember to focus on these key aspects of location and neighborhood. Taking the time to assess the surroundings will help you make a more informed decision about your future home.
6. Have a Debrief
After an exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) display home visit, it’s a great idea to sit down with someone close to you and review everything. Go through your photos, notes, and brochures, and chat about the pros and cons of each home you saw.
Compare the features of each display against your list of must-have elements. Which ones come closest to your ideal home?
If you have any lingering questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the New Homes Consultant for more details on the homes you visited. A little extra clarity now can help you make the best decision moving forward.
Ready to explore your dream home?
Visit Homebuyers Centre’s display homes across Victoria and experience firsthand the quality, design, and features that could be part of your new home. Take the next step—find your closest display home and start envisioning your future today.
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