home building

The Power of Sales Office Displays

February 19, 2025
By Stuart Platt

K. Hov sales office images by Outhouse contractor Matt

Why Homebuilders Can’t Afford to Overlook This Essential Tool

Every touchpoint with a potential homebuyer matters in today’s competitive homebuilding market. From the first moment they walk into a sales office, the experience they have can shape their entire perception of the builder. Investing in creative, high-quality sales office displays isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about standing out, making an impact, and driving more sales.

Yet, some builders are moving away from dedicated sales offices, choosing instead to rely solely on digital interactions or remote appointments. While technology has its place, eliminating or minimizing the role of a well-designed sales office can be a costly mistake. Here’s why sales office displays remain a crucial part of the homebuyer journey and why skimping on this aspect can put a builder at a disadvantage.

Creating a Lasting First Impression

The moment a homebuyer steps into a model home sales office, they begin forming an opinion about the builder. Are they professional? Do they pay attention to detail? Can I trust them to build my future home?

High-quality displays, such as vinyl wall wrap graphics, floor plan displays, and wall-mounted site plans, create an immersive, informative, and visually appealing environment that reassures buyers they are in the right place. A thoughtfully designed space instills confidence, whereas a sparse or uninspiring space can leave buyers feeling uncertain or even skeptical about the builder’s credibility.

_{Adobe AI generated couple interacting with a Sales Kiosk.}

Standing Out from the Competition

In many markets, homebuilders compete in the same neighborhoods, sometimes even across the street. A compelling sales office design can be the differentiator that helps one builder stand out from the rest.

Imagine two homebuyers visiting back-to-back sales offices. One builder features stunning wall graphics showcasing the lifestyle of the community, engaging video displays with customer testimonials, and an interactive site plan that allows buyers to visualize available lots. The other builder offers only a few brochures and a generic table with a sales rep. Which experience is more memorable? Which builder will leave a stronger impression?

Investing in creative and high-quality displays sends a message that the builder values their product, brand, and, most importantly, customers.

The Psychology Behind Visuals and Tapping into Emotion

Homebuying is an emotional process. I dare you to deny that. Buyers aren’t just choosing a house; they’re envisioning their future. A well-designed sales office fosters positive emotions, making homebuyers feel excited, inspired, and comfortable. Here’s how:

Trust and Confidence: Professionally designed displays communicate stability and professionalism, making buyers feel they’re working with a reputable builder.
Excitement and Aspiration: Lifestyle imagery, high-quality renderings, and engaging video content help buyers imagine themselves living in the community.
Clarity and Understanding: Interactive maps, floor plans, and community overviews eliminate confusion and make it easier for buyers to visualize their options.

Without these elements, a sales office can feel impersonal, transactional, or even forgettable. We want to inspire buyers to take the next step. Creating a memorable environment is worth it if buyers remember you after they walk out the door.

Wall wrap of motorcyclist in garage — _{Visually stunning garage wall wrap demonstrates the emotional appeal of wall wraps}

What’s Lost Without a Sales Office?

Builders who eliminate or scale back their sales offices risk losing a key element of the sales process. A well-staffed and well-designed space allows sales teams to:

Guide buyers through the decision-making process in a controlled, branded environment.
Build relationships and answer questions in real-time.
Reduce buyer hesitation by providing visual and tangible reinforcements of the community’s value.

Without a dedicated space, buyers may rely on online research alone, where competing builders have just as much visibility. Worse, buyers may lose interest or become overwhelmed without the personal guidance and reassurance a sales office provides.

Weighing the Quality vs. Cost Investment

Some builders hesitate to invest in high-end sales office displays due to cost concerns. However, opting for cheap or outdated materials or skipping displays altogether can be even more expensive in the long run. Poor presentation can lead to lost sales opportunities, reduced buyer confidence, and a weaker brand reputation.

On the other hand, high-quality, well-designed displays have a lasting impact and require minimal updates compared to the revenue they help generate. A well-thought-out investment in sales office displays pays for itself through increased buyer engagement, higher conversion rates, and stronger brand loyalty.

The Bottom Line: Sales Office Displays Drive Results

For national production homebuilders, the sales office is more than just a place to meet buyers. It’s a critical tool in the sales process. The right displays create an engaging, informative, and emotionally compelling experience that turns interest into action. In a market where first impressions and differentiation matter, builders can’t afford to overlook the power of a well-designed sales office.

Now is the time to invest in displays that showcase your brand, engage buyers, and set your communities apart. After all, a strong first impression leads to a lasting relationship and, ultimately, more home sales.

Want to learn more about Sales Office Displays?

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Design Inspiration: The High Line, NYC

October 1, 2024
By Jim Sorgatz

Bring Your Home Designs to Fruition at Outhouse

Have you ever stumbled upon a place so unexpected and exhilarating that it floods your mind with creative ideas and inspiration? That’s exactly what I experienced on a recent trip to New York City while exploring the High Line, an elevated linear park built on a former rail line. This isn’t just any public park; the High Line is a unique blend of art, architecture, and urban design. Stretching 1.45 miles through Manhattan’s West Side it offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and showcases some of its most innovative buildings.

Iconic Architectural Landmarks

From the elevated perch, high above the crowds, the view of iconic buildings, like the Empire State Building, is astonishing. Here are a few of the wonderful buildings you see along the way:

The Eleventh (BIG): Designed by the Bjarke Ingels Group, this striking complex features two twisting towers at 76 Eleventh Avenue. Known for its bold geometry and expansive glass walls, The Eleventh offers panoramic views and a modern twist on traditional skyscraper aesthetics.

*The Eleventh – designed by the Bjarke Ingels Group.*

520 West 28th Street (Zaha Hadid Architects): A hallmark of contemporary design, this building is noted for its curving metallic façade and futuristic appeal. It is one of the last projects by the legendary architect Zaha Hadid, making it a significant landmark on the High Line.

Chelsea Market: Originally a factory for the National Biscuit Company, this historic building now serves as a vibrant market with various food vendors and shops. The High Line runs through the building, showcasing its blend of old and new architectural elements.

*The High Line making it’s way through Chelsea Market.*

10 Hudson Yards (Coach Building): This skyscraper marks the northern terminus of the High Line and is a central part of the Hudson Yards development, a massive urban revitalization project often compared to Rockefeller Center in scale and impact.

*10 Hudson Yards building in the distance.*

Unique Experiences and Sights

Walking along the High Line offers more than just architectural wonders. The park itself is a showcase of landscape design, featuring over 500 species of plants. Areas like the Gansevoort Woodland and the Washington Grasslands offer serene green spaces amidst the urban hustle

The High Line also functions as an outdoor art gallery. With installations like Paola Pivi’s “You know who I am” and Nina Beier’s “Women & Children,” the park provides a continuous rotation of thought-provoking art that enhances the visitor experience.

*Mural by renowned Brazilian street artist Eduardo Kobra.*

Although some people don’t love these, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I found “The Vessel,” and a whimsical sculpture by artist Danny Cole to be quite entertaining as well.

The Vessel – centerpiece of Hudson Yards. This interactive sculpture was imagined by British designer Thomas Heatherwick.

What’s The Connection Here to Home Building?

Wherever you find inspiration for new homes, whether it be the High Line in Manhattan, an out-of-this-world experience elsewhere, or a simple walk in the neighborhood park, Outhouse, the outsource hub for home builders, can help bring your wildest ideas to fruition. Give us a sketch on a napkin, and our architectural team will produce a full set of construction documents.

While plans are in progress, our rendering team will meticulously craft your 3D exterior and interior elevations, virtual tours, and visualizers. Our interactive team works their magic to build digital tools like interactive floor plans and interactive site maps that will engage your homebuyers. We can also coordinate digital assets with your web designer including industry experts Blue Tangerine, Bokka Group, Group Two, Meredith Communications, and Adlanta Creative,

All of this can be accomplished simultaneously in a compressed timeline bringing your homes to market faster, and increasing your ROI.

*The juxtaposition of old and new is striking. The iconic Empire State Building in the background.*

Conclusion

The High Line is a testament to New York City’s ability to innovate and adapt, transforming an old rail line into a vibrant public space that seamlessly blends nature, art, and architecture. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or just looking for a unique urban experience, the High Line offers a fascinating journey through some of the city’s most captivating sights.

If you visit the High Line, or anywhere else that inspires some fresh design ideas, draw a quick sketch, and send it over to Outhouse. We will take it from there to bring your idea to life!

From Income Tax Accounting to Web Design: Navigating Career Shifts and New Opportunities

October 1, 2024
By Tabitha Warren

_{Accounting Female to Video Editing Female Courtesy of Canva Pro}

During the global pandemic, many of us found ourselves reevaluating our career paths, seeking new opportunities, and embracing change in unexpected ways. My journey from being an income tax accountant to venturing into the realms of web design and social media coordination is a testament to the transformative power of adaptation and seizing new avenues for growth.

As a former income tax accountant, I never imagined myself delving into the creative realms of web design and digital marketing. Honestly, web design was my husband’s area. However, the pandemic presented unforeseen challenges and opportunities that compelled me to explore alternative career paths. With the traditional job market feeling dangerous to an immunocompromised woman, I decided to leverage my skills in finance and analytical thinking to venture into the digital landscape.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this transition has been the opportunity to collaborate with small businesses and the people that run them, particularly in the realms of homebuilding and trail racing. These industries, often operating on tight budgets and with limited digital presence, were initially hesitant to entrust their online presence to a relatively inexperienced designer and marketer. However, through open communication, dedication, and a willingness to learn, we embarked on a journey of growth and success together. Three years later, we continue to work together and implement new technologies and data to strengthen their strategies.

A reader might be thinking, “Homebuilding and trail racing? What do these two markets have in common? How did this woman end up working in two markets that are so completely different?” The truth is twofold. First, I was a little bit lucky. The first project, the home builder marketer, fell in my lap through social connections. The second project, the trail race event coordinator, came by word of mouth after an employee from the home builder marketing company admired what I was doing and recommended me to a friend. But second, the heart of the businesses was the same. Both businesses want to help customers live happier, healthier lives. To achieve this, they needed to generate leads. They need to get their service offerings seen online.

Small and medium-sized homebuilders, in particular, stand to benefit immensely from embracing digital transformation and investing in a robust online presence. A well-designed website serves as the virtual storefront, offering a platform to showcase past projects, highlight expertise, and engage potential clients. Moreover, leveraging analytics and SEO practices can significantly enhance visibility and attract qualified leads, ultimately driving business growth and expansion.

Many people, new to web design and social media believe that having a digital presence will be cost prohibitive, but that isn’t true. The addition of a website and social media often pays for themselves. Especially, if you find a designer or coordinator that is the right fit for your company. Don’t be afraid to outsource to a designer or marketing firm that can help you grow.

According to a survey by Clutch, 46% of small businesses still do not have a website, representing a significant untapped market for digital growth. Although many small builders have a website, some include little more than a logo, a couple of pictures, and contact info. By harnessing the power of web development and digital marketing, homebuilders can differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape, reach new audiences, and establish credibility in the industry.

_{Outhouse – The outsource Hub for Home Builders Home Page}

In my experience, working closely with homebuilders and race coordinators to develop and optimize their websites has been immensely gratifying. By incorporating user-friendly design elements, compelling content, and strategic SEO tactics, we have witnessed tangible results, from increased website traffic to higher conversion rates. Moreover, the ability to track and analyze data enables us to refine our strategies continuously, ensuring maximum ROI.

As we navigate an ever-changing post-pandemic world, the importance of digital presence and online visibility cannot be overstated. Small companies that embrace innovation and adaptability stand poised to thrive in this evolving landscape. By partnering with skilled web developers and digital marketers, small businesses can harness the full potential of the digital realm, driving growth, and success in the years to come.

My journey from income tax accounting to web design symbolizes embracing change, adaptation, and accepting new opportunities. By collaborating with small businesses, I have not only found success but also forged meaningful partnerships built on trust, creativity, and mutual growth. As I look to the future, the potential for innovation and transformation in the digital sphere is limitless, offering boundless opportunities for those willing to seize them.

Tabitha Warren was an Income Tax Accountant for 15+ years. In the first months of the pandemic, she took a chance and re-careered to freelance in Marketing. She currently, and very happily, works with video and photo editing, social media marketing, website building, and now blog writing.

10 Lessons Ted Lasso Would Have for the Home Building Industry in 2023

March 28, 2025
By Tabitha Warren

*This image was taken from the official press kit for “Ted Lasso,” distributed by AppleTV+*

The final season of Ted Lasso was loved by some and flopped for many. I was one of the people who was a tried-and-true fan in the same manner that I’m a fan of the home building industry. Ted wants us to be better, happier, more hopeful people. The home building industry wants people to find a home for their family and build happy, hopeful lives there. They want us to continue to “believe” in the American dream and a place to call our own. On that note, I believe that Ted Lasso has a few more lessons for home builders. But this time around we’ll take a few quotes from the entire cast.

The series finale of Ted Lasso shows the team comes together; each has a piece of the iconic “BELIEVE” sign. They put it together. It’s ripped, it’s tattered, but it’s all there. It’s beautiful. It stands for something.

When I saw it, I saw the home building industry. It has had a several-year struggle from materials shortages to housing shortages and long waits to labor shortages to skyrocketing interest rates. Like A.F.C. Richmond, it often feels like the housing industry can’t get a win.

Many of us in the housing industry just need to take some of the Lasso lessons and above all remember to “Believe in Believe.”

You guys are more distracted than a bunch of cats playing laser tag.”
Ted Lasso

Focus on Relationships: The key point here is focus. One of the lessons from Ted Lasso is the importance of building strong relationships with clients, customers, and colleagues. In season 3, we see Ted continue to prioritize his connections with the team and work to build trust with new players like Dani Rojas. With these fictional characters as well as in home building, focus on relationships creates trust and confidence among all parties. New homes are significant investments, so home buyers need to believe builders and contractors will deliver quality work within agreed-upon terms.

Well, I don’t want comfort.”
Roy Kent

Embrace Change: The willingness of homebuilders to adapt and embrace new technologies and building practices is critical to staying ahead of the curve. By adopting new technologies, trends, and practices, home builders can offer better homes, enhance customer satisfaction, and position themselves for success in an ever-evolving market. Ted Lasso is all about embracing change and adapting to new situations. In the final season, A.F.C. Richmond undergo some significant changes as they adjust to new coaching and playing styles. This inevitably leads them to advance to the Champions League. Embracing change can make many of us champions in our own rights.

Unless it’s Animal Crossing. That sh! t’s ‘clucking’ soothing.”
Isaac Macadoo

Communication is Key: Effective communication is essential in any industry. Home builders should prioritize clear and open communication with clients and trade partners to ensure everyone is on the same page. Ted Lasso is a shining example of effective communication. Ted and the team continuously work to improve their communication on and off the field. Communication takes many different forms, and sometimes we all need to calm down and make sure we are playing from the same rule book.

Right now, y’all brains are basically in London in 1857. They’re blocked up by other people’s dookie.”
Ted Lasso

Prioritize Customer Experience: Ted Lasso understands the importance of providing a great customer experience, and builders should too. Ted works to create a positive and supportive environment for the team. He often takes them on strange and winding journeys if it will result in them understanding the process better. Ultimately, this helps them perform better on the field. Similarly, home builders should prioritize their clients’ experience, from the initial consultation to the final walkthrough. That’s the idea of the home buyer journey.

I’m a work in prog-mess.”
Ted Lasso

Emphasize Quality: In season 3, we see the team working to improve their skills and techniques to produce better results on the field. Ted Lasso is known for his attention to detail and emphasis on quality, which should also be a priority for home builders. Prioritizing quality materials and craftsmanship to ensure projects stand the test of time is a good business practice. Things don’t always have to be perfect, but we in the homebuilding industry should strive to improve every day.

Can I say a bad word? I think you’re being stupid.”
Phoebe (Kent)

Be Authentic: Authenticity is a fundamental aspect of successful homebuilding. It establishes trust, strengthens relationships, and fosters customer and trade loyalty, all of which are vital for sustained success in our competitive market. Authenticity benefits the homebuilding business and ensures a positive and fulfilling experience for the buyer who entrusts home builders with their dreams of a new home. Ted Lasso is all about being true to yourself and your values, which often involves a lot of honesty.

“Time is a construct, like gender and many of the alphabets.”
Zava

Embrace Diversity: Diversity and inclusion are essential themes in Ted Lasso, and these values also play an important role in new home construction and sales. This season, we see the team welcome new players from different backgrounds and work to create a more inclusive environment. Home builders also benefit by striving to gather diverse and inclusive teams to foster innovation and creativity. Like Ted Lasso, homebuilders will find that different viewpoints and experiences enable them to innovate, problem-solve, and attract a broader group of homebuyers.

We are now one. There is no we; there is no you; there is only we and us and the ‘wenus.'”
Zava

Collaborate: Collaboration is vital in any industry, including home building. Prioritizing collaboration with contractors, designers, and other stakeholders helps builders ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Partnerships also enable builders to manage complex projects, maintain quality control, creatively innovate, and manage costs. I think Zava said it all.

I’ve had more psychotic episodes than Twin Peaks.”
Ted Lasso

Be Resilient: Ted Lasso is all about resilience and overcoming adversity. In the final season, the team faces some tough challenges, but they bounce back and come out stronger in the end. Home builders should also be resilient in the face of setbacks and challenges and work to solve problems as they arise. In the past year, we have faced economic uncertainties such as rising interest rates, inflation, and fluctuating housing demand. Being resilient allows home builders to adapt to these changing economic conditions.

I look like Ned Flanders is doing cosplay with Ned Flanders.”
Ted Lasso

Have Fun: Last but not least, Ted Lasso reminds us to have fun and enjoy the journey. The boys at A.F.C Richmond work hard but also take time to enjoy each other’s company and have fun on and off the field. Home builders should also remember to enjoy the process and take pride in their work while finding ways to have fun along the way.

The Mayfair – by Hampstead Living with Believe sign added

The wonder of Ted Lasso comes from within the process of growth and connection. It doesn’t have anything to do with wins and losses. Just like the continued beauty of home building should be connections and community. Connections to quality business partners and connections to the families we come together to help. We are building a community on so many levels. Community of like-minded builders and vendors. But most of all, communities of new homeowners will be proud to have bought a home from us and will want to come back the next time they purchase. I think we all need to take notes from Ted Lasso and Believe in Believe.

Visualization Sells

October 2, 2024
By Jim Sorgatz

Lessons Learned from Zillow + a Trip to Croatia

*A mural at the market in Zagreb, the largest city and capital of Croatia.*

With its ancient towns, incredibly detailed architecture, and pops of color, the country of Croatia a sight to behold. If you haven’t been, this is one place that should be on your must-see travel list. The country is a visual feast, and the great walled cities like Dubrovnik and Split are spectacular! As you sail along the Dalmatian Coast and between the islands dotting the Adriatic Sea, the first glimpse of each city or town reveals a mass of limestone buildings with terra cotta tile roofs.

*Korcula Island, a historic fortified town.*

Although a bit similar, each is wonderful and breathtaking in its own way. Color and texture play a vital role in bringing out the unique personality of each island and the coastal area in general. Fantastic murals, light installations, brightly painted pottery, and fun, colorful yachts and boats stand in sharp contrast to the deep blue sea and off-white buildings. “A picture paints a thousand words” certainly applies to this amazing country, and that is why Croatia draws travelers from around the world.

Imagery and Engaging Tools are Vital to New Home Sales

The same holds true for your homes when it comes to painting a picture for potential buyers. Describing a “beautiful bedroom with tray ceiling and a pair of windows” is one thing. And then there is this rendering.

Which bedroom is most appealing to you? The one in the description, or the one in this beautiful rendering?!

A recent report by Zillow shows nearly half (49%) of new construction buyers under age 40 (Gen Z and millennials) say they feel very or extremely confident about making an offer on a home solely after seeing it virtually. The same holds true for 36% of buyers between the ages of 41 and 55 (Gen X).“

2020 brought some unique challenges to the home building industry. With Americans staying home in droves, builders were forced to rethink online marketing strategies. As the abundance of time people spend online continues in 2021, we see a growing contingent of sophisticated buyers who are making most purchases online; and retailers are spending billions of dollars engaging them. When it comes to their search for a new home, these same buyers seek out and expect a similar, interactive experience. Outdated 2D renderings and static floor plans are not enough to capture their attention. They are looking for tools like Interactive Floor Plans (IFPs) and Interactive Site Maps (ISMs). These tools are incredibly engaging and build emotional connections, especially the IFPs with their furniture planners, pricing tools, and structural options selectors. Statistics show that home buyers spend 2-3 minutes on the typical builder website. This time increases by 13-20 minutes, on average, with an Outhouse IFP.

*Click to engage the Outhouse Interactive Site Plan and Floor Plans.*

Statistics show that home buyers spend 2-3 minutes on the typical builder website. This time increases by 13-20 minutes, on average, with an Outhouse IFP.“

Also playing a huge role in online sales are virtual tours and animations, which allow home buyers to walk or fly through homes not yet constructed. These can be so lifelike with running water, crackling fireplaces, and more, they may even look better than the Matterport tours of your model homes. A massive benefit to builders is the cost, which is substantially less than building and furnishing a model.

*Click to see our animation in action – bubbling fountains included!*

Virtual Tours and Visualizers Bring Maximum Engagement

Kicking it up a notch are interior and exterior Visualizers, enticing home buyers to select color palettes, materials, and finishes for their new homes. In addition to clear, vivid images, the Outhouse Visualizer offers builders the choice between predetermined color schemes and a la carte selections.

Yes, model home traffic will gradually continue to grow, but the move to greater interaction online is here to stay. The pandemic has accelerated the widespread acceptance of new technologies. Even people who typically are later adopters have learned to use and appreciate the convenience of interactive online tools (can anyone say Zoom!). Visualizers, Virtual Tours, Animations, Interactive Floor Plans, and Interactive Site Plans are crucial for builder websites. All of these tools are designed to capture buyers. They market and sell your homes from anywhere in the world, even when your sales centers are closed.