For the December instalment of our “Ask an Expert” series, we kept it close to home. Marissa Gabel is our area manager for the southside community of Tamarack Common, and we sat down with her to get the details on what you need to know when you visit a showhome.
What sorts of things do I need to do before visiting a showhome?
Look at the company website for available floorplans that the builder offers; familiarize yourself with the style of the company.
It’s important to know about the builder and how they treat their current and past clients. Check reviews online.
Talk to your mortgage broker and get a pre-approval. It is always a good idea to know what type of budget you are comfortable staying within.
I would also suggest looking into the people that work for the company. You are going to be spending a lot of time with your sales representative; you will want to know how they have treated their previous clients.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Whether you are looking for decorating ideas, or for your next dream home, I always suggest bringing a camera. There are many showhomes that you visit during the home buying journey. Taking photos of the homes you love the most will help you make the best decision at the end of the day.
Have a great attitude – there are a lot of stairs!
Make sure you wear shoes that are easy to take off and put on, especially if you have an entire day planned.
What sort of questions do I need to ask the Area Manager?
Always ask what upgrades are in the show home. I offer tours to point out the upgrades while walking through the show home, so that clients know what is included, and what isn’t.
Always ask questions about the community. Find out about any upcoming amenities or areas. Let the Area Manager know if there are certain amenities that you and your family need to ensure your dream home is also your dream community.
Ask how long it will take to build your dream home from start to finish, or find out if the builder has any quick possession homes available. Choose the option that is best suitable to your situation and needs.
What makes buying a new build home different from buying a resale home?
New homes come with an Alberta New Home Warranty. A previously owned home cannot offer that peace of mind.
A new build provides the opportunity to hand select each item that is placed in your dream home. Not having to live through a renovation to acquire your dream home is another great bonus.
My clients love being able to drive by and watch the process! It’s exciting to see the progress the home is making; watching holes being dug, and walls going up.
Making lasting friendships during the year long relationship with your sales representative.
What makes you unique in your area of expertise?
I love my job, and every person I work with can tell that I do! I become personally invested in the biggest purchase of your life, and strive every day to make it the best experience possible. I make myself available to my clients at all times. If my clients have a mild panic moment, I can immediately put them at ease because I am there for them. I am always here to help whether a client chooses to work with me, or not. There is a lot of information that clients need to navigate, and decipher through when choosing a builder and a dream home, and my door is always open. I’m here to help.
Take a look at all of the communities we build in and talk to the area manager for the one that piques your interest. They’ll help you set up an appointment for a tour of the showhomes in the area.