Five things to keep in mind when looking at a display home

Visiting a display home is hands-down the most exciting step in your research journey. But before you get wowed by all that these houses have to offer, here are five crucial things to keep in mind.

1. Know your budget

Your budget determines most of the decisions you will make about your new home. While display homes are designed to inspire, they are also styled to sell. Keep what you can and can’t afford at top of mind when visiting a show home, says Jennifer Crawford, an architect from Our New Home Coach.

“Don’t torture yourself looking at homes that you could never afford,” she advises.

2. Understand your land

Without really understanding the intricacies of your block, you risk getting your hopes up over homes that may not suit your land. So ask your developer or hire a surveyor to collect all the details. This should include size, slope, orientation, street frontage, and any easements and objects such as storm water manholes, says Crawford. Some builders only construct homes in particular areas. Before you drive to a display home, check the builder can work in your area and will also build on your actual block.

3. See past the styling

When it comes to making a play for all your housing hopes and dreams, display homes have got the market cornered. They are decked out with all the mod-cons and the latest in interior design trends. The trick is to look past it all, says Crawford.

“Don’t be fooled by the chandeliers, cushions, lighting, air-con and fountains ­– display homes are styled to the max to make them look stunning,” she says. “But a poorly located living area is still a poorly located living area regardless of the leather sofas. And a wasteful staircase is still a wasteful staircase regardless of the chandelier.”

Salespeople will give you the base price of the house, but ask about the display price of the actual home you will visit. It usually features a stack of optional upgrades, so you may be surprised by the price difference.

4. Cater to your family

Ensure you know what your family needs and how you will use the house. If you have primary-school-aged children, they may need a playroom now and places to study in the future. If you work from home, you will need a home office that’s located in a quiet space. If an elderly parent lives with you, you might need wider hallways and doorways to one day accommodate a wheelchair.

5. Consider design guidelines

Virtually every residential locale in Australia is governed by a set of design guidelines. These can dictate how, when and what you can build on your land. Guidelines commonly focus on orientation, architectural style, landscaping, sustainability and size. Your home will need to follow these specifications, but you can also apply to your local council if you want special approval for something outside the guidelines. Some builders will do this on your behalf for a fee.