So you’re planning your dream log home. All of a sudden, reality hits and you’re faced with a barrage of questions. What floor plan do I want? Which company do I chose? Do I want a round or square log? Is one wood species better than the rest? How will I match my décor to the log walls? Which stain best suits my need? The questions seem endless. Nevertheless, these are decisions that must be made. So how do you decide? Fortunately, the answers to these and many more of your questions can be found at your local home show.
Winter months are the most popular time of the year for shows. Whether it’s a traditional home show, a remodeling show, a home and garden show, an outdoor show or a log home show, the opportunity exists for potential home buyers to research products, services and the companies that provide them.
Log and Timber home shows are one of the best resources available to those interested in a log structure. Manufacturers from all over display their log and timber frame systems, floor plans and customer services. In addition, one will find an array of vendors showcasing everything from gutters to log furniture. The variety is often so extensive that it may lead to confusion for the customer.
There are so many different products and companies to choose from. And, each claims to have the best log system, the perfect wood, and the best price. But how do you decide what’s really best for you? Here are a few thoughts to keep in mind as you make your journey around the show.
First of all, a good first impression means a lot. Consider the sales representative staffing the booth. Make sure you feel comfortable dealing with this person. Keep in mind this is the one you are entrusting with your lifelong dream… and money. Is he or she a good communicator? Do they listen to you? Are they more interested in your needs or getting a sale? If you can’t find it in your heart to trust this person, then move on.
Should something sound too good to be true it probably is. Beware the special deals or cut rate pricing. In the end, you always get what you pay for.
Never do business with someone who runs down their competition. Not only is this unprofessional, it only proves he or she cannot compete with honest comparisons.
There is no such thing as the “perfect log.” There are many good log species and building systems available, but like any other product, each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Go with the one whose characteristics you desire the most.
Make it a point to extend your research outside the showroom floor. Many companies sponsor post show events. Attend one if at all possible. A visit to the company headquarters and manufacturing facility can tell you a lot about financial stability. Beware of a company that you can’t see.
Ask for customer referrals and see for yourself. Past customers are generally eager to share both the good and the bad of their own building experience.
If you feel pressured, move on! The show experience is designed for your benefit and should be entirely stress free.
Finally, trust your own instincts. Only you will know if it feels right. If your gut says tells you it’s OK, do it!
So get out to a home show near you and begin your quest for answers. The knowledge gained will be well worth your time. For a complete listing of Honest Abe sponsored shows in your area, check out the upcoming events tab on our web page. We hope to see you soon!
Attending a Log and Timber Home Show is the perfect opportunity to get started planning a dream home. That’s why Honest Abe Log Homes is a sponsor of these informative shows, which are held throughout the year in various locations across the country.
Some of the exciting things to do at a Log & Timber Home Show might include:
- Review floor plan ideas with builders and designers
- Obtain price estimates on a dream home
- Meet builders and contractors in your area
- View hundreds of floor plan ideas
- Meet editors from Log Home Living and Timber Home Living
- Purchase interesting décor
- Find land for sale
University Course Topics include but are not limited to:
Knowledge is POWER
Choosing the right path toward completion
Setting and staying on a budget
Site decisions
Designing the perfect floor plan to fit your lifestyle
Price vs. quality
Room by Room considerations
How Green are you really?
Choosing a supplier and builder
Deciding on a lender
Deciding on a builder
Ways to reduce cost
Questions to ask BEFORE you buy!
Getting ready to build
The construction process, what to expect
Construction Specifications
University is optional and requires separate registration and fee.
