Love at first sight may sound like a romantic notion, but for house hunters the length and breadth of the country it is a wonderful reality.
First impressions count when it comes to finding a dream home and showhomes represent the perfect opportunity to look beyond the blueprints and architect’s drawings to get a real feel for the potential of a property.
Making the most of that experience is vital when it comes to the decision on the biggest investment most buyers are likely to make and Your Home has taken a look behind the front door of one of the north-east’s most exclusive showhomes to get some expert advice on making the most of a viewing.
Forbes Homes is showcasing its Gairn house style at its stunning Deeview development in Cults, with the showhome one of eight properties nestling on the banks of the River Dee in the sought-after suburb.
Prices at Deeview range from £1,370,000 to £1,544,000 and a tour of the sumptuous showhome underlines exactly what buyers can expect in return.
When viewing any showhome, the established rules of the property market still apply – meaning location, location, location should be at the top of the list. Interior design, furnishings, fixtures and fittings all deliver instant appeal but the setting of the development is the one aspect that cannot be changed.
Craig Forbes, of Forbes Homes, said: “All of the properties at Deeview have been built around the fantastic location and that’s one of the first things visitors to our showhome discover.
“There are wonderful views over the River Dee towards Ardoe and out to Deeside Golf Club, both from inside and from the first-floor deck. We would always recommend taking time to let those views soak in and to appreciate the tranquillity – features which are just as important as the houses themselves.”
That approach to the external appeal should be replicated internally, with a patient approach to viewing to provide the best experience for potential buyers.
Craig explained: “Our ethos has always been based on creating an environment where there is no pressure. Visitors to the showhome should always be given time to really get a feel for the property and not be rushed.
“It is only when you spend time in a house that you truly appreciate the attention to detail and quality of the finish, something we pride ourselves on and shines through in every property – not just the showhome.”
The Gairn is one of four house styles built at Deeview, with four properties, including the showhome, still available to discerning house hunters. The three-storey Gairn takes full advantage of its incredible riverside location, with the ground-floor lounge, dining room, sitting area and extensive balcony designed to make the most of the impressive views.
An imposing entrance hallway, contemporary kitchen, spacious utility room and shower room completes the ground-floor accommodation with four large bedrooms, two featuring en suite shower rooms, and a family bathroom on the first floor.
On the lower ground floor, a wealth of versatile accommodation is provided – with the showhome utilising the space to add a family room, play room, study area and en-suite guest bedroom. A decked area leads to the extensive garden grounds.
The quality of the construction and intelligence of the design shines through, but the warmth of the welcome and the knowledge of the sales advisor are also factors that are vital to ensuring the viewing is a success.
Craig said: “Every member of our team is passionate about the properties we create and that is so important. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – everyone appreciates that any home purchase is a huge decision and it should be an informed choice. Because Deeview is a small and bespoke development, we are in the fortunate position of being able to tailor almost every aspect to individual requirements, something we know has been very well received.”
Looking beyond first impressions is another key piece of advice. What you can’t see is just as important as what you can.
Craig added: “We’re very pleased with the visual appeal of the Deeview showhome, with the interior design carried out by Andersons of Inverurie. It is an elegant approach and intended to show the potential of the space, with large rooms and high ceilings being used to their full advantage.
“However, many of the cleverest features of the house are built-in before a wall has been painted or a single piece of furniture is in place. With surround sound in every room and underfloor heating on the ground floor, it is worth exploring the features which aren’t necessarily visible – that’s where the beauty of the design can often be found. Storage space is another aspect that doesn’t jump out at you but is crucial in a family home, something we were very conscious of during the design stage of Deeview.”
If you follow those recommendations, there is every chance it could be love at first sight for you. But just as important as that instant reaction is the feeling towards the property beyond that initial visit.
Craig said: “At Forbes Homes, we always encourage a second visit, once the dust has settled. That next visit can help to focus the mind and will usually bring new aspects of the property and features to the fore.
“Many will use a second or third visit to canvas the opinion of family or friends and that input often plays an important part in the process. The first impression will always be important.
“Our approach is all about creating homes for life, properties which will stand the test of time.”
Further information on the Deeview development is available from Forbes Homes on 01224 861780 or www.forbeshomes.co.uk