Every fall, thousands of Minnesotans step into some of the most beautiful new homes in the state during the Parade of Homes. Whether you’re just gathering ideas or seriously considering building, these open houses are an incredible opportunity to learn — not just about design trends and floor plans, but about the builders themselves.
If you’re touring with intent, you’ll want more than just photos of tile patterns and cabinet colors. A builder’s philosophy, communication style, and approach to quality are just as important as the aesthetics. So how do you go beyond “ooh” and “aah” while walking through these show stopping homes? Here are five smart, conversation starting questions that will help you dig deeper and walk away feeling more informed and confident in your builder search.
This gives you a chance to learn what this builder does best. Maybe it’s energy efficiency, long standing relationships with trades, or thoughtful floor plan design. You’ll learn what they prioritize and get a better sense of whether those values align with what you’re looking for in a home.
Building a home is a big deal. There will be decisions, changes, and probably a few surprises along the way. Knowing who your point of contact will be, and how they prefer to communicate, can help set expectations upfront. Is it a project manager, the builder, a dedicated designer, or a team? What’s the typical response time for questions or concerns? You’re not just hiring a company, you’re choosing a partner for a months-long process. Compatibility matters.
Every builder has their own process and pace. Understanding the full scope — design meetings, permitting, construction milestones, inspections, and punch lists — will help you plan more realistically. Don’t be afraid to ask what could cause delays and how those situations are handled. A builder who sets clear expectations (and delivers on them) will help your experience feel much less stressful.
Even if you love the model you’re touring, it’s important to know what’s flexible and what’s fixed. Some builders offer semi-custom options with a defined set of finishes, while others offer full customization from layout to lighting. Understanding what’s standard and what’s considered an upgrade also helps clarify your budget. This question can help you understand a builder’s process for change orders and how involved you can be in the design journey.
Ask about warranties, follow-up inspections, and how issues are resolved once you’re living in the home. Good builders stand by their work and want you to love your home long after closing day. Asking about post-move-in care will give you a sense of how invested they are in long-term customer satisfaction.
These builders are here to talk with you! They want to connect with future homeowners and answer your questions. Don’t feel like you need to know everything walking in the door. Curiosity is key, and your questions help guide the kind of experience you want to have — both in the building process and in your future home. So, as you kick off your Parade of Homes tour this fall, keep your camera ready, but don’t forget to start conversations. The right questions might just lead you to the right home.
