TOURING TIPS: What to Know Before You Go.
Watch the Parade Planning Tips Video
A little preparation will go a long way toward a productive Parade of Homes tour.
- PLAN AHEAD: Several days before you go on the home tour, we suggest you plan your route. Use the website and Parade “APP” to view map, addresses, home descriptions and driving directions. Depending on your point of origin, you can easily see four or five homes in one day or more. NOTE: The home addresses do not get posted until just before the event. These are private homes and only available for viewing during the tour.
- INTERACTIVE TOUR: Download the Free Lakes Region Parade of Homes APP onto your mobile device. This will allow you on-the-go access to tickets, home & builder information, map & driving directions, making comments, voting, and more. Search "Lakes Region Parade of Homes" in your APP Store. Refresh the app often to get the most up-to-date information.
- MEET THE BUILDERS: All featured builders are members of Lakes Region Builders & Remodelers Association, meaning they are experienced and affiliated with the widely respected home advocacy association, the National Association of Home Builders. They are passionate craftsmen, innovators and problem solvers who work together to custom-build the home of your dreams.
- WALKING: Wear comfortable shoes - you will be walking a lot. Some homes have long driveways and there may not be up-close parking. You will not be allowed to wear shoes into the homes so be sure to wear socks as a courtesy to the homeowner. Some homes may have booties at the front door to slip over the shoes but socks are preferred.
- NOTES: Give yourself enough time at each home to take notes. Most homes allow cameras. However, please be respectful of the builder/homeowners instructions.
- VOTING: Don’t forget to vote after you are all done touring the homes. Voting is done by going to the website or on the APP, registering your ticket and choosing YOUR FAVORITE. There are no special criteria to judge on but to pick the home that resonates as the best out of all the homes. The builder with the most votes from visitors will receive the “People’s Choice” award.
- RESTROOMS: Parade homes do NOT offer public restrooms. Please plan accordingly.
- CHILDREN: Children must be supervised at all times.
- FOOD / DRINK: No outside food or drinks are allowed at homes.
- TRANSPORTATION: Each year, you may encouter some homes that may require driving on dirt roads, tight parking, and may require additional transportation from parking location. Please read Home Descriptions & plan accordingly.
- PETS: No pets allowed at homes.
- SAFETY GUIDELINES: We are committed to keeping you safe. Refrain from touching surfaces and handles in the home. If you are not feeling well, please stay home.
- RESPECT THE HOMES: Most homes on the parade are owned and occupied by homeowners - who have gratiously let guests into their homes to tour! Please respect their privacy and do not open drawers, cabinets, closets, or other personal areas unless otherwise noted. Respect the homes, furnishings, and Builder instructions. Do not enter restricted areas. The Tour is meant to showcase the craftmanship of the builds!
- PHOTOGRAPHY: By attending, you consent to the use of any photos or video taken of you during the event for promotional purposes. Some homes will allow photography inside, please respect the guidelines set forth by the Buidler and homeowners at each home.
