How to Get the Most Out of the Des Moines Tour of Remodeled Homes 2023

Every fall, residents of Central Iowa have the opportunity to take a firsthand look at a wide array of remodeled homes completed by some of the best home builders in Des Moines. Compelling Homes is back again this year with not one but two tour homes! Enjoy some sneak peek shots below, and - as always - get tips and tricks to maximize your time on the tour. See you there?

Des Moines Tour of Remodeled Homes 2023: Important Information

• Saturday, October 7, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Sunday, October 8, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  

After viewing each house, you can vote for your favorite project.

Tickets for the 23rd annual tour are $10 and may be purchased online or in person at any project location.

Meeting the Pros

Some of the firms whose work will be represented in the home and remodeling show this year include us (obviously), Remodeling Contractors, Grand Homes & Renovations, Zenith Design + Build, Whitey Exteriors, Design2Build, and Alair Homes.

Questions to Ask Contractors During the Tour of Remodeled Homes

Part of the fun of visiting these homes is meeting local contractors and gathering ideas, advice, and insider knowledge for your own home remodel or addition. Listening to people talk passionately about their work is a joyful experience for everyone. It can be hard to come up with concise conversation starters on the spot, but we've got you covered. Here are some sample questions to ask a contractor about their project on display to spark the conversation.

• During the construction, did you have any surprises on this project?
• Did you finish the project on time?
• What was the most challenging part of the project?
• What innovative solutions did you employ to overcome challenges?
• What is your favorite element?
• Were there any unique materials or techniques used in this project?
• What specialties did you showcase here?
• How did you ensure the new design seamlessly blended with the existing structure?
• How did the homeowner's vision influence the final design?
• What inspired the architectural decisions made throughout the home? 

Maximizing Your Tour

The Tour of Remodeled Homes is a self-conducted home show in Des Moines. You are welcome to plan your tour route and go alone or with friends or family. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy and make the most of this yearly event:

1. Plan Your Route Strategically

Unless you have two full days to tour Des Moines, you won't be able to see every site. Fortunately, the presenters provide information about each remodeling project ahead of the event. You can pick the ones you are most excited about and prioritize them in your schedule. If seeing a metropolitan remodel is important to you, make sure you explore the city before heading to the suburbs. On the day of the tour, start with your favorites in case you don't have an opportunity to see them all. Also, schedule time to grab a coffee or meal on tour so you can get to know the neighborhoods. You also will be happier and more focused on your tour if you fuel up ahead of time.

2. Be Respectful of the Space

Although the homeowners have opened up their personal, private residences to the public for the sake of the tour, that doesn't give you the liberty to make yourself at home. Feel free to look around and explore different facets of each remodel. But also be gentle opening and closing doors, wipe your feet before entering the house, and refrain from unnecessary touching. Whether the homeowners ask you to remove shoes, keep your shoes on, or use provided booties, respectfully do as requested.

3. Don’t Use Bathrooms in the Homes

Speaking of both planning your tour route and respecting other people's homes, keep in mind that the bathrooms at these homes are not for public use. Although it may seem minor, it can become a significant issue if you don't think ahead and plan accordingly. Since you won't be able to wash your hands while on-site either, it's a good idea to take some hand sanitizer or wipes.

4. Prepare to Take Notes

The tour provides you the ideal opportunity to meet with remodeling contractors from Des Moines and other industry professionals. Feel free to ask them questions and gather insight you can apply to your own residential remodeling project. Be prepared to take notes — either on paper or smartphone — and collect contact information and the names of helpful resources for homeowners planning to embark on the remodeling journey.

Tour of Remodeled Homes Sponsors

Although the Tour of Remodeled Homes receives support from local sponsors and the community at large, it's presented by two highly influential organizations in the construction industry.

The Remodelers Council of Greater Des Moines is an association encompassing remodeling contractors, building material suppliers, and specialty trade contractors. Each council member maintains a strict code of ethics and the highest standards of professionalism, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction. The council also hosts networking and educational events alongside its trade affiliates, including the other sponsor: the Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines.

The HBA DSM, established in 1944, is also dedicated to advancing the building industry, its members, and the communities it serves. The nonprofit organization provides numerous resources to industry professionals and helps connect them through shows and other events.

Home Remodeling in Des Moines

Whether or not you're planning an imminent home remodeling project in Central Iowa, the 2023 Tour of Remodeled Homes is a fun, low-key opportunity to see standout renovations, collect home design inspiration, and meet professionals who could become key players in the future. Be sure to stop by Compelling Homes' project to see a home design that's not just good — but Compelling! 

And if you're ready to start the residential renovation process, talk to our team during the tour. We'll answer your questions and help you figure out the next step in the remodeling journey.