Social distancing and show homes

NextHome has always been about getting the homebuilders’ message out there, and these days that message is all about how everyone is dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Homebuilders in Calgary and Edmonton are dealing with the pandemic in varied ways, especially in regards to their show home operations. Some are closed, some are by appointment only, and some remain open with regular working hours but are implementing enhanced safety precautions.

And the thing to remember is that the situation is so fluid that the information we may be sharing now could have changed by the time our readers see it. The best way is to really go to the website of the builder to find out the situation in regards to their show homes.

Information may also be different for a buyer who is in the process of building their home, and the casual show home shopper just looking around. For the latter, the best bet right now is to go on the web, many homebuilders are offering virtual tours on their websites – it’s the only way to “go viral” right now.

Levity aside, homebuilders have all taken the seriousness of the situation to heart and have enacted enhanced cleaning programs for everyone’s safety – show home visitors and their staff alike.

Calgary

“If you’re not able to go out, we offer alternatives to visiting show homes, ZEN Chinook Gate sales staff would be more than happy to showcase these pet-friendly, 2 storey townhomes with bonus room via text, a phone call, FaceTime or Video Chat, whatever works best for you,” she says. Visit zenchinookgate.com for more details.

Trico Homes says they are encouraging people to shop online and their website has AI enabled platform that provides an exceptional and personalized and guided experience. “You can still tour our show homes but in the comfort of your own home. We have virtual tours, photo galleries and maps,” says Trico’s Glenda Schwartz. Visit tricohomes.com to start the virtual tour.

Same thing with Shane Homes, taking their 3D tours is encouraged. They do note that the Design Centre Sunday customer tours and browsing are closed until further notice. “Sales Centres and show homes remain open, (but) we encourage viewing our homes virtually with our 3D tours!” Shane Homes says. Go to shanehomes.com for more information.

Edmonton

Bedrock Homes has launched its new website that has the ability to schedule private one-on-one showhome tours, video FaceTime calls. “Our show homes are remaining open for the time being, says Bedrock marketing manager Laura Box.

“We’re also taking extra precautions with sanitizing door handles, desks and washrooms. We’re asking clients to hand sanitize or wash their hands before they tour our show homes with no handshaking,” she adds. Go to bedrockhomes.ca for more information.

Coventry Homes says in a statement that show homes are now by appointment only. Besides ensuring enhanced cleaning protocols, they say Area Sales Managers are also facilitating phone meetings, FaceTime tours (or whatever platform is needed), by-appointment only for one-on-one bookings. Visit coventry-homes.com to schedule appointments and more info.

Alberta

Rohit Communities says they are observing the same safety procedures in both their Calgary and Edmonton operations. In a statement, the home builder says they are following guidelines established by the regional health authorities to keep their team and customers safe.
“In Alberta, our show home viewings are by appointment only,” it says.
For those looking to continue their home buying journey while maintaining social distancing, Rohit Communities offers a fully online experience to browse, chat, buy. “Whatever stage of your home buying journey, we’re ready to serve you with our online home selling platform.” Go to rohitcommunities.com for the latest.

Jayman BUILT boasts 3D virtual tours of their show homes in Edmonton and Calgary that allow visitors to do a comprehensive walk-through without leaving the comforts of their home. “Our show homes and office will continue to operate during regularly scheduled hours with heightened cleaning precautions in place,” it says in a statement. Jayman BUILT, like most, also can set up a virtual meeting with their sales team members with anyone wanting to know more. Go to jayman.com for more information.

Brookfield Residential, one of the biggest land developers and home builders in Alberta, says they are doing everything they can to satisfy their customers while keeping employees safe.

“The focus right now is creating safe conditions for people and the community, while remaining accessible to our customers who are currently in one of the many stages in their home buying and homeownership journey,” a Brookfield Residential statement says.

“All interactions are by appointment only and we’re using technology to limit in-person contact.” To make an appointment, please email: HelloSales@BrookfieldRP.com.

Lastly, NextHome reminds everyone to stay safe out there, wash your hands and keep a safe social distance. Be mindful of each other and we can get through this together.