What should I look for when viewing a show home?

You’ve probably seen the stunning photos online, but nothing compares to stepping inside and experiencing a show home in person. Visiting a show home gives you the chance to get a real feel for the quality of our new homes, see how the spaces flow, and picture whether living in one would suit your lifestyle.

Here’s a helpful guide which covers what to look for when viewing a show home, with tips that go beyond looking at the aesthetics to help you plan for life in a new home.

• Check how the rooms flow and whether your furniture would fit 
• Observe natural light and the direction of windows 
• Inspect finishes, fixtures, and overall build quality 
• Explore storage options 
• Ask about upgrades, energy-efficiency, and buying off-plan 
• Consider the wider development and local amenities 
• Take notes, photos, and measurements for later reference

The layout of a home has a huge impact on day-to-day living. Start by walking through the home as if you already live there, imagine how your furniture would fit and if there is enough space for everyone in your household.



Then think about your lifestyle. If you love cooking, check whether the kitchen has enough workspace. Enjoy hosting friends and family? Look at how the living and dining areas could accommodate guests. For hybrid or remote workers, consider which rooms might work best as an office or if there is space for a desk.

While exploring the home, don’t forget to check the storage carefully. Open built-in cupboards and storage spaces and think about where you would store everyday items like coats, cleaning supplies, and larger belongings.



Some of our homes also offer practical spaces like utility rooms, garages, and outdoor storage areas, designed to make everyday life much easier. It’s worth considering if these are an essential for you and whether the spaces will fit your needs.

While the show home will give you a sense of layout and space, keep in mind that your chosen plot may face a different direction, which will change how light fills the room.  

• South-facing homes usually feel brighter all day 
• North-facing homes stay cooler with softer light 
• East-facing plots catch the morning sun 
• West-facing plots enjoy afternoon and evening light 

When you’re in the show home, take a note of how the windows are positioned and you may even want to ask the Sales Executive about the orientation of the plot you’re considering.

New builds are generally more energy-efficient than older homes, which helps to keep bills lower. But it’s still a good idea to check the details.

For the majority of our homes, an air source heat pump will be installed as standard. Across some developments, we’ll also install an EV charger. Ask the Sales Executive for more information as to what come as standard in your new home, to try and get better idea of long-term running costs and how sustainable your home will be.

Remember that your home is part of a bigger picture, so don’t forget to find out more about the development as a whole. One of our best show home viewing tips is to ask about accessible green spaces, nearby amenities and planned walking routes for evening dog walks. It’s also a good idea to explore the surrounding area to see which shops are nearby, and if there are any community facilities that would benefit your whole family.

Most show homes include upgrades, so it’s important to ask the Sales Executive which features are part of the standard specification and which are extras. Upgrades often include tiling, flooring, worktops and fitted wardrobes.

If you’re buying off-plan, ask the Sales Executive about deposits, the reservation process, and build timelines. It’s also a good idea to find out what happens if there are delays, and whether you’ll have the chanced to choose fittings before the home is completed.

Finally, we have a range of 2, 3 and 4-bedroom show homes available across our developments in the Midlands, Lincolnshire and North of England. Before making the journey, don’t forget to check our website first to find out what show homes are available at your preferred development. 

To arrange a visit to a Gleeson show home, you can contact our sales team directly or fill out a form at your chosen development.