For most people, the home is considered a sanctuary: a place to kick back, relax, and spend time with family. However, when the time comes and your home needs renovating or expanding, finding an experienced and trustworthy contractor to carry out the work with minimal disruptions is no easy feat.

Over the last few decades, Open House events have become increasingly popular, with homeowners across the states opening their doors to demonstrate the craftsmanship of their contractors to others. If you’ve come across a local Open House event in your area, let’s take a look at what you can expect to learn from attending.

WHAT IS AN OPEN HOUSE EVENT?

Organized by the contractor or remodeler, an Open House event allows entry to the home of a current customer to demonstrate work in progress or a recently completed project. As well as publicizing the company - be it an architecture firm, a remodeling or renovation company, or an interior design firm - potential customers will have the opportunity to experience the work firsthand. In addition to paying attention to the craftsmanship, you will be able to speak to the firm’s staff who will happily answer any questions you may have, and also hear from the customer about their experience with the firm. Tempted to attend an event? Read on for more details.

EXPERIENCING THE CRAFTSMANSHIP FIRSTHAND

It’s easy to be dazzled by idyllic images of perfect home interiors online, but experiencing the work in person is extremely important. Viewing the work of any contractor in person provides a valuable insight into the standard of their work, the quality of their materials, and their attention to the details. Close inspection of the finishes and finer details will enable you to determine if their work is to your standards, something often missed in photographs.

MEETING AGENTS AND EXISTING CUSTOMERS

Another vital benefit of attending an Open House event is meeting the company staff and homeowners. Whether you’re viewing a renovated basement, a loft conversion, or an addition, you will be able to discuss the project with both the representative from the company and homeowner, and even book an initial consultation.

While, of course, the company staff member is there to publicize and promote the firm’s excellence, the homeowner will be able to share their experiences openly. Don't shy away from asking any questions before you leave, and if you want to go prepared, here are a few questions you could ask:

  • Ask the representative about project schedules - Of course, completion times will vary depending on the work, but being aware of the timeframe of the Open House project you are viewing will give you a good indication if you have a similar project of your own in mind.
  • Ask the customer if they experienced any disruptions - while it is likely that they will be completely satisfied with the contractor, they may shed light on more minor details like noise, dust and dirt accumulation, and even health and safety issues.