Planning is key – without it renovating can be costly and problematic, but done well it can increase the value and enjoyment of your home. The Home Guide is a great start and provides you with valuable information, tips, hints and useful checklists supplied by top industry experts. It will help you on your way to a successful and rewarding renovating experience.

You can see, feel and listen to the products you are considering and there are plenty of experts on hand to give free advice. You can also save time by visiting hundreds of companies in one place without having to drive around the country or spending hours on the internet.

If you have challenges with any of your living spaces, you can find solutions because home shows offer hands-on exhibits relating to kitchens, bathrooms, interior design, furniture, bedding, lawn and garden, pool and spa, all categories of building/remodelling products, and green products.

If you've never visited a home show, you will be amazed at the experience you've missed all these years. Follow some of the suggestions in this article and your visit can be truly a lifestyle changing moment.

Home shows are great events that can give homeowners and individuals, who are looking to build or remodel a home, excellent ideas of what local products and services are available. Sometimes it can be hard to visualise what a product would like in your home and home shows can help bridge that gap because exhibitors often display and showcase examples of what their products actually look like when they are in place.

Tips for getting the best from a Home Show

Before the Show

• Make travel and accommodation bookings early to maximise on discounted rates.

• Stay at accommodation close to the venue to save on travelling and to give you a place to rest, sort through information gathered, and refocus your energy.

• Obtain a map of the city and know how to get to the venue.

• Be prepared with a pen and notepad to jot down important notes for the many new ideas and products you will see.

• If you're contemplating a particular upgrade, bring along the plans or even a sketch of your proposed project to discuss with the experts.

• Take colour swatches, measurements of spaces and walls so that when you see the perfect piece you will know instantly if it fits.

• Pack comfortable shoes and clothing to wear on the show floor. Walking shows can be extremely tiring. Try insoles for extra comfort. Remember to leave room for things to bring back.

• Take a light and comfortable carry-all for accumulated materials. Plastic bags are often uncomfortable as they cut into your hands.

• Choose the seminars that are relevant to you and allow enough time to sit in (half an hour each) and follow up with the presenter afterwards if you have more questions. Split sessions with your colleagues to maximise data gathering.

• Take plenty of business cards to avoid filling out forms.

• Take advantage of the special show prices while you're there.

• Spend time on the home show's website. Many have show clubs you can join and receive ticket discounts and special offers in advance.

• Most home shows have a show supplement/ show directory available in the days prior to the show's opening. Watch the newspaper for this valuable guide.

From bare car park to landscaped displays – at the Waikato Home and Garden Show.

At the Show

• Come early in the day if you have house plans, sketches, colour matching and product measuring to do. This way the exhibitor can devote more time to you.

• Some events offer to check coats and bags so you don't have to drag them around with you. Take a break after a few hours to refresh and get some fresh air. Drink water regularly to avoid dehydration.

• Attend the event with a list of show related questions you need answered. The industries top experts will be available to answer these questions. Face to face contact is one of the home show's most valuable resources.

After the Show

• Plan how you are going to implement information gathered.

• Write the show name and date on the brochures you collect.

• Be prepared to follow-up after the show for literature and samples requests.

Summary

• Save time by meeting hundreds of companies under one roof.

• Discover new and interesting products and services for your home.

• Shop, compare and save. Ask exhibitors about their show specials.

• Get inspired and excited about your home and the countless possibilities.

• Find the best resources in home improvement, landscaping, and design services.

• Meet face to face with home improvement professionals .

• Get expert advice and tips.

We hope these tips for attending a home show are helpful as you proceed with your next remodel or building project!

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