Five things to look for when viewing a show home
You’ve studied the floorplans, zoomed in on every photo and probably driven past the development more than once, but visiting a show home is still the best way to see how a new home could work for you.
At Lancet Homes, we always encourage you to view with your head as well as your heart, because it’s easy to be drawn in by the idea of your own space. Here are five things to look for when viewing a show home, so you can walk away feeling confident in your decision.
Your new home viewing checklist:
Here is our home viewing checklist to help you stay focused and compare properties properly:
- Check the floorplan layout
- Capture photos for comparison
- Visualise living there
- Observe the natural light
- Explore the wider development and local area
What is a show home visit?
A show home visit is your opportunity to step inside a new build home and experience it as more than just a collection of images or floorplans on a screen. You’ll be able to walk around each room, get a feel for the flow of the layout and imagine how your belongings might look in the space.
During your visit, a Sales Advisor will be available to explain the features, specification and upgrade options, but you will also have plenty of time to explore on your own. The visit is relaxed and informative and gives you the chance to ask practical questions about storage, room sizes and natural light.
You can also ask about the wider development and the local area, so you can leave not only knowing about the house itself, but with a clearer picture of how it might feel to live in the community. Here are some of the things you should consider when viewing a show home:
1. Check the floorplan and flow
Walking through a home in person is completely different to viewing a virtual tour online because you can experience the flow between rooms. Many new build homes feature open plan designs that create a natural connection between kitchen and living areas, making it easier for families to cook, entertain and spend time together.
If outdoor space is important to you, take a look at how the house connects to the garden. A well-planned link between inside and outside area can improve opportunities for entertaining and making the most of the warmer weather.
2. Capture photos for comparison
Taking photos on your phone when walking around can also be helpful. Especially if you’ve had a couple of house viewings in a short space of time, it’s easy for details to blur together, so having your own images of room layouts and storage spaces can make it much easier to compare different properties when you get home.
3. Visualise living there
When you’re in a show home, don’t be afraid to think about how you might fill the space with your things. An online floorplan won’t show you where your everyday items will live, so this is your chance to think about where you will put shoes after a muddy autumn walk, store your vacuum cleaner and where the dog bed might go.
At Lancet Homes, many of our new build homes are designed with clever storage spaces like garages, utility rooms and built-in storage that help keep living areas clear. Checking these spaces will give you a better idea of how organised a home could feel once you’ve moved in.
4. Pay attention to the natural light and orientation
Natural light is another important feature to look for when viewing a new home. New build homes are often carefully designed to maximise natural light, and visiting a show home in person allows you to see how this is possible.
The position of the property on its plot will influence how much sunlight rooms receive throughout the day, so take note of window size, placement and direction. Think about when you are most likely to use certain rooms and how the light might affect them. Morning light in the kitchen, for example, may suit early risers, while a living room that catches the evening sun could feel warmer later in the day.
5. Step outside and explore the wider development
When you book a show home visit, try to allow time for a walk or drive around the development, so you can get a feel for the streets, green spaces and how easy it is to get around.
It’s also a good idea to check how easily you can reach nearby amenities, like schools, supermarkets, parks and transport links. Even if you’re not using them straight away, knowing they’re within easy reach adds reassurance and practicality to your decision.
Visit a Lancet show home
The best way to explore the benefits of buying a new home is to step inside it.
Get in touch to book your appointment today and take the opportunity to see what makes a Lancet home so special.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What questions should I ask at a house viewing?
At a house viewing, it's a good idea to ask questions that go beyond what you can already see, like what’s included in the price (fixtures, fittings, flooring and appliances), what the expected completion timescales are and what the warranty covers. You should also ask about practical details like broadband speeds and how the reservation process works.
How long should I spend in a show home?
Around 30–60 minutes is usually enough to explore each room, take notes and measurements, and ask questions without feeling rushed.
Do show homes show the standard specification?
Typically show homes are often styled with optional upgrades to showcase the full potential of the property. It’s important to find out which features are included in the standard specification, and which are available at an additional cost, so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Do I need to book a show home appointment?
If possible, we always recommend booking a dedicated appointment so you can ask the Sales Advisor detailed questions and explore the property at your own pace.