Dozens of vendors, all with innovative and exciting products that will make your home the envy of the neighborhood. Wandering around a home show can be a fun way to spend a Saturday, but without a plan it can also be a total waste of time for those who are hoping to find something specific. Here are 5 tips to keep from getting overwhelmed at the home show.
1. Have a plan
Depending on the size of the home show there could be over 100 different vendors in areas ranging all the way from handymen to the latest and greatest technology for your home. It is easy to get distracted. In fact, that is actually the whole idea. All of the vendors are trying to draw you in to see their product or service and make you think that it is something you can’t live without. So make a plan ahead of time. Decide which products or services are on your must-see list and make sure that the majority of your time is spent with those vendors. That’s not to say that you can’t check out the other exhibits, after all, you may find something that you truly cannot live without, but having a plan will get you back on track when you are tempted away.
2. Compare similar vendors
No matter what you are looking for, you will want to talk to several vendors who carry the same types of products or offer the same types of services. Find out what is included from each company, so you know what you are really comparing. Check out the reputation of each company and ask for customer recommendations. You will get a good feel for which company will fit your needs better.
3. Take measurements
If you have a specific project in mind, it would be a good idea to take measurements of your area with you so that the vendors have a better idea of what your needs are and will be able to speak to your specific project. Having details about your project will allow you to make the best use of your time during any free consultations that might be available at the home show.
4. Watch for customer service
Any company you deal with needs to have outstanding customer service. This is particularly true of companies that provide a service or a product that is going to require installation, like a swim spa or hot tub. You will want to pay attention to the level of customer service that each vendor shows to the people who come to their booth. It will be a good indication of the kind of customer service you will receive if you hire them for your project.
5. Make sure they are reputable
The majority of vendors at a home show are going to be highly reputable; however, there will be a handful of fly by night shops that set up at home shows across the country. These are vendors that you want to avoid. They take your money, but once the home show is gone so are they. If you are interested in a particular vendor that you have never heard of or isn’t from your area, take a few minutes to check their credentials, it can save you a lot of heartache and a lot of money down the road.
Keeping these tips in mind will help you get the most of the next home show that comes to your town. Just remember, when in doubt it is always best to stick with your local shop. At Pool Tech Plus we are always here and always ready to answer any questions that you might have.