What Should I Look for in a Display Home?

Visiting a display home is an exciting step when building your dream home. It’s your chance to see how a builder’s designs come together and get a feel for the layout, materials, and overall quality. But with so many beautiful homes to choose from, how do you know what to focus on?

Location and Orientation

Before you step inside, take note of the location and orientation of the home. In Perth, the direction a home faces can make a big difference in how it feels.

North-facing homes tend to get the best natural light, particularly during winter, and can help keep your home warmer.
Consider how the home is positioned for sun exposure, especially in warmer months.
Does the home block strong winds or provide shelter from harsh summer heat?

Orientation is crucial to ensuring your new home stays comfortable year-round.

Layout and Flow

The layout of the home is critical for functionality. It should suit your lifestyle, whether you’re a growing family or someone who loves to entertain. Here are a few things to focus on:

Room sizes and proportions: Are the rooms spacious enough to fit your furniture? Do they feel open and airy?
Traffic flow: Is there a natural progression between spaces, such as from the entryway to the living area and kitchen?
Practicality: Are the spaces functional? For example, is the kitchen easily accessible from the dining or living areas for easy entertaining?

The layout should feel practical and suit your everyday needs, from room sizes to ease of movement.

Quality of Fixtures and Finishes

One of the most important things to check is the quality of the materials used in the home. High-quality finishes not only improve the home’s appearance but also affect its durability. Pay attention to:

Flooring: Does it feel solid and easy to maintain? Check the flooring in high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens.
Cabinetry: Open drawers and cabinets to assess whether they are well-made. Check that everything closes smoothly and is built to last.
Benchtops and Tiles: Are they made from durable, high-quality materials like stone or ceramic? Do they feel sturdy under your hand?
Joinery: Inspect doors, window trims, and skirting for solid construction and finishes.

Good-quality finishes can indicate a builder’s attention to detail and overall craftsmanship.

Space and Storage

Effective use of space is essential in any home. During your visit, assess the home’s storage options. Is there ample room for your things? Here are some things to consider:

Built-in wardrobes: Are they spacious enough for your needs?
Linen cupboards: Does the home have sufficient storage for everyday items?
Walk-in pantry: If you love to cook or entertain, is there enough pantry space to store your food and kitchen gadgets?
Outdoor living: How does the outdoor area connect to the indoor spaces? Is it easily accessible and well-sized for entertaining?

Practical storage solutions and good space utilisation can make your life much easier in a new home.

Lighting and Ventilation

Good lighting and ventilation can make a home feel comfortable year-round. During your visit, note the following:

Natural light: Are the rooms well-lit during the day? Check the windows and orientation to ensure they let in plenty of natural light.
Cross-ventilation: Does the home have good airflow? Open a few windows to see if there’s a natural breeze. Good ventilation can help keep the home cool in summer.
Artificial lighting: Are there enough light fixtures in key areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and living spaces?

Natural light and good airflow contribute to a comfortable, energy-efficient home.

Upgrades and Customisation Options

Many display homes are fitted with upgraded finishes, so it’s essential to ask about what comes as part of the base package versus what is considered an upgrade. Consider the following:

Standard inclusions: What features and finishes are included in the price? Are things like flooring, cabinetry, and appliances included, or are they optional upgrades?
Customisation options: Can you make changes to the design or finishes? For example, can you choose a different kitchen layout or alter room configurations?

Understanding the difference between standard inclusions and upgrades will help you set a realistic budget.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Energy-efficient homes are not only better for the environment, but they can also save you money on your bills. While touring the display home, keep an eye out for sustainable features like:

Solar panels: Are they installed? Solar energy can significantly reduce your electricity costs.
Insulation: Does the home feel comfortable in terms of temperature? Good insulation helps keep your home cool in summer and warm in winter.
Water-saving features: Are there low-flow taps, showers, or toilets to conserve water?

These features can make your home more sustainable and cost-effective in the long run.

Builder’s Reputation and Support

Finally, ensure the builder has a solid reputation. A well-regarded builder will not only deliver a high-quality home but also offer excellent customer service. Here’s what to check:

Experience: How long has the builder been in the industry?
Warranty and aftercare: What kind of warranties do they offer? Do they provide ongoing support after the build is completed?
Customer feedback: Can they provide reviews or references from past clients?

A reputable builder such as Aveling Homes ensures that you’re getting a quality home and reliable support throughout the building process.