Touring a new home is an exciting part of the home-buying journey, especially when considering a reputable builder like Meritage Homes. A home tour is a great opportunity to explore the design, features, and overall quality of the home you’re interested in. If it’s your first time touring a Meritage Homes property, it’s important to know what to expect so you can make the most of the experience. Here’s a guide to help you prepare for your first Meritage Homes home tour and ensure you know what to look for.
1. A Warm Welcome and Introduction
Friendly and Knowledgeable Sales Consultants
When you arrive for your first Meritage Homes tour, you’ll be greeted by a sales consultant who will serve as your guide throughout the tour. The sales consultants at Meritage Homes are knowledgeable and friendly, ready to provide information about the homes, the community, and the buying process. They will take the time to understand your needs and preferences to help you find the best fit.
Overview of the Community and Available Homes
Before starting the tour, the sales consultant will provide an overview of the community, including the amenities, schools, and nearby conveniences. They will also discuss the available floor plans, price ranges, and the key features of Meritage Homes, such as their energy-efficient designs. This introduction will help set the context for the rest of your visit.
2. Touring the Model Home
Experience the Floor Plan First-Hand
During your home tour, you’ll visit a model home, which is a fully furnished representation of the available floor plans in the community. Touring the model home allows you to experience the layout, flow, and functionality of the space. You’ll get a feel for how the rooms are connected, how spacious the living areas are, and whether the floor plan fits your lifestyle.
Pay Attention to the Details
As you walk through the model home, take note of the details and finishes, such as flooring, countertops, cabinetry, and appliances. Meritage Homes provides quality materials and craftsmanship, and you’ll be able to see this throughout the model. Pay attention to the quality of construction and the standard features offered, as well as any upgrade options that catch your eye.
Flexible Spaces and Design Features
Meritage Homes is known for its thoughtful and functional designs, which often include flexible spaces that can adapt to your needs. As you tour the model home, take note of these areas, such as bonus rooms, flex spaces, or home offices. Think about how these spaces could work for your lifestyle—whether you need a playroom for kids, a home office, or a guest room.
3. Explore Energy-Efficient Features
Innovative Energy-Saving Technologies
One of the unique aspects of Meritage Homes is their commitment to energy efficiency. During your home tour, the sales consultant will point out the energy-efficient features that are included in every home. These may include spray foam insulation, Low-E windows, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and more. These features help reduce utility costs and create a more comfortable living environment.
Lower Utility Costs for First-Time Buyers
For first-time buyers, understanding the long-term savings provided by energy-efficient features is crucial. During the tour, ask questions about how these features contribute to energy savings, and how they compare to older, less efficient homes. Meritage Homes’ focus on sustainability and efficiency can translate to significant monthly savings, making homeownership more affordable.
4. Learning About Customization Options
Personalization and Upgrade Choices
Meritage Homes offers a range of personalization options that allow you to make the home truly yours. During your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of the upgrade choices available, such as different countertop materials, flooring options, or cabinetry styles. The sales consultant will explain which features come standard and which can be upgraded, helping you visualize how you can customize the home to suit your preferences.
Design Center Visit
While you won’t necessarily visit the design center during your first tour, your sales consultant may provide information about what to expect when you do. The design center is where you’ll make all your selections and customize your new home, and it’s an exciting part of the process where you can choose everything from fixtures to finishes.
5. Touring the Community and Amenities
Explore the Neighborhood
After touring the model home, the sales consultant may take you on a tour of the community. This is an excellent opportunity to see the amenities offered by Meritage Homes communities, such as playgrounds, community pools, parks, and walking trails. These amenities add value to the neighborhood and contribute to the overall lifestyle experience that Meritage Homes aims to provide.
Understand the Location and Conveniences
As you tour the community, take note of its proximity to nearby conveniences like schools, shopping centers, restaurants, and major highways. Location is a crucial factor when choosing a home, and understanding what the community offers in terms of convenience and lifestyle will help you determine if it’s the right fit for you.
6. Asking Questions and Gathering Information
Prepare a List of Questions
Before your tour, prepare a list of questions to ask the sales consultant. Some questions to consider include:
What are the standard features included in the home?
What options are available for upgrades?
What energy-efficient features are included, and how do they impact utility costs?
What are the HOA fees, and what do they cover?
What are the estimated property taxes for the area?
The more questions you ask, the more informed you’ll be, and the better you’ll understand whether a Meritage home is the right choice for you.
Take Notes and Photos
During your tour, take notes and photos to help you remember important details. Touring multiple homes can become overwhelming, so documenting what you see will make it easier to compare options and make an informed decision later.
7. Understanding the Next Steps
Discuss the Buying Process
At the end of your tour, the sales consultant will discuss the next steps if you’re interested in moving forward. They will provide information on reserving a lot, selecting a floor plan, and beginning the financing process. Understanding the timeline and what to expect in the coming weeks will help you feel more prepared as you move closer to making a decision.
Financing Options and Pre-Approval
If you haven’t yet been pre-approved for a mortgage, the sales consultant can provide information on Meritage Homes’ preferred lenders. Getting pre-approved is a critical step in the buying process, and working with a lender familiar with Meritage Homes can make the process smoother and more efficient.
Conclusion
Touring a Meritage home is an exciting and informative experience, especially for first-time buyers. By understanding what to expect during your first tour, you can make the most of the opportunity to explore the quality, features, and amenities that Meritage Homes offers. From energy-efficient designs to customizable options and desirable communities, Meritage Homes is committed to providing a seamless buying experience and helping you find the perfect place to call home. Come prepared with questions, take your time exploring, and enjoy the process of discovering what could be your dream home.
Please call us at 469-269-6541 for more details and available homes!
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The above information regarding the “DFW & Haslet Realtors You Can Trust to Put Your Interests First" was provided by Nitin Gupta, CRS, GRI, REALTOR. Nitin has experience helping families buy and sell homes in the Dallas/Fort Worth area including Haslet, Texas. If you’re thinking of selling or buying in Haslet, he would love to share his knowledge and expertise. Learn more about Haslet real estate market and Collin County Real Estate news at
The communities he proudly serves include Haslet, Coppell, Irving, University Park, Dallas, Haslet, Flower Mound, Colleyville, Grapevine, Highland Park.
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