When building a new home, buyers want personal touches -- cookie-cutter floorplans, whitewashed walls and a so-so finishing selection spell doom for many Calgarians.
So we asked the experts: How can people put the stamp of personalization on their new home?
"We want to offer customers the freedom to make some changes," says Baywest's Kim Brzoza.
"What we do offer is an 'in the middle' inspiration centre where we have quite a few samples. Customers have a short list of mandatory suppliers and then they have a whole list of optional suppliers."
Brzoza says buyers can choose different standard selections, then add optional items ranging from fireplaces to granite.
"They can choose to upgrade, or work within different colours and standards. We've seen some very creative things that customers do and it's wonderful."
The client-care specialist says a design expert can make personalization a fun and hassle-free process.
At Morrison Homes' selection studio, an easy, stress-free time is the name of the game.
A warehouse-sized space bursting with cabinetry, flooring samples, lighting fixtures and even wiring and vacuum systems, means buyers have a choice in every step of the decorating process.
"Things are a little bit different with us," says selection studio manager Carole Saguez.
"We allow every client to personalize their home -- we have something for everyone."
With products designed to meet every budget, Morrison caters to the traditional, modern and high-tech homeowner in everyone.
"The very first thing we find out is what's most important to the client. We have our three style vignettes at the the front, so some people come in and they're really, definitely traditional."
Saguez says the vignettes hold different options for fireplaces, mouldings and bathroom accessories to help the designer pinpoint the homebuyers personal style.
They then guide the buyer through the process -- ensuring a stress-free time.
"People usually know what they want, but they're afraid. It's almost like instead of buying one outfit, you're buying your whole closet at the same time."
Fortunately for Morrison customers, Saguez says the possibilities are nearly endless -- and the end goal is customer satisfaction.
"We want people to know they do have options." she says.
"They can walk away feeling like they made the right choice." After all, she adds: "We're building your home. Not a house -- your home."
