Choosing Your Builder

Congratulations—you’ve decided to build a new home! However, once you’ve made this life-changing decision, your options may seem overwhelming.

The first step in finding your builder is to decide what type of home you want. Would you prefer a custom home, or would you rather work with a production home builder? Custom home builders generally build one-of-a-kind houses, usually on land you own. They generally build 25 or fewer homes annually, and focus on high-end, single-family homes. Some custom builders also may offer design/build services.

On the other hand, production home builders generally build on land they own using stock plans, though they usually offer a variety of plan choices and options. Production builders are frequently large-volume builders (more than 25 homes per year), and build all types of housing at various price points.

When examining a home, look at the quality of the construction features. Inspect the quality of the cabinetry, carpeting, trimwork and paint and never hesitate to ask the builder or the builder's representative your questions. What seems like an insignificant question might yield an important answer.

Remember that cost is not a direct measure of quality. High quality combines good design and fine products and materials with superior workmanship and proper installation.

2009 Parade of HomesSM

This event is proudly sponsored by

Parade of Homes has new dates this year. The new schedule is listed below. Tickets are on sale at each Parade Home, GLHB&RA office or select Independent Bank branches.

CLICK HERE to view the 2009 Parade of Homes Official Guidebook. Please be patient. The file is large and will take a few minutes to download.

New Homes Open: Saturday, May 30 & Sunday, May 31
Thursday, June 4 through Sunday, June 7
Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, June 14

Remodeled Projects Open :
Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, June 14

Hours: 12:00pm to 5:00pm on all Saturdays & Sundays
6:00pm to 9:00pm on weekdays

Admission:
$5.00 Children (under 12)
$10.00 Adults (ages 12+)
$25.00 Family (2 Adults and up to 4 children)

Tickets go on sale Tuesday, May 26 at GLHB&RA office and at the following Independent Bank locations: Charlotte, East Lansing, Leslie, Mason, Okemos, West Rd. and Williamston.

Parade of Homes History:
Since 1957, the Greater Lansing Home Builders & Remodelers Association has proudly presented the Parade of HomesSM. This annual event allows the public to tour newly-constructed homes, and remodeled projects built by the area's finest builders. You'll find a wide range of prices, sizes, and styles featuring the latest in construction, design, and decorating techniques. Builders are present in their homes so participants can meet and talk with them. The Parade of HomesSM promotes homeownership, professionalism, and increases the public's awareness of our members who have been building Lansing neighborhoods since 1944.

Interested in looking for your dream house or looking for one of the builders that was in a past Parade of Homes? Click on the virtual tour links below.

View the Virtual Tour for all 2009 Parade Homes

View the Virtual Tour for all 2008 Parade Homes

View the Virtual Tour for all 2007 Parade Homes

View the Virtual Tour for all 2006 Parade Homes