---
title: 5 Questions to Ask When Touring a Model Home
description: Touring a model home? Ask these 5 key questions to better understand features, upgrades, timelines, and more before you buy.
image: https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/hubfs/8750_Yeager_Ln_NE-03-1658437606351-resized.jpg
---

[![skogman-logo](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/hs-fs/hubfs/skogman-logo.png?width=176&height=51&name=skogman-logo.png "skogman-logo")](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/)

##### Navigation

- Find Your Home 
    - [Cedar Falls & Waterloo](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/new-homes/iowa/cedar-falls-waterloo)
    - [Cedar Rapids Metro](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/new-homes/iowa/cedar-rapids-metro)
    - [Independence](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/new-homes/iowa/independence)
- Why Skogman 
    - [Our Process](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/our-process)
    - [Built For You](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/built-for-you)
    - [Testimonials](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/testimonials)
    - [10 Year Warranty](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/ten-year-warranty)
    - [Vendors & Trade Partners](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/vendors-and-trade-partners)
    - [Home Trade Program](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/home-trade-program)
    - [Energy Advantage](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/energy-advantage)
- Who We Are 
    - [Our History](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/our-history)
    - [Our Team](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/our-team)
- Homebuyers 
    - [Financing](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/financing)
    - [Refer a Friend](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/refer-a-friend)
    - [Homeowner Maintenance](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/homeowner-maintenance)
    - [Blog](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/?__hstc=12939688.ead009bfd76f7b6f259567ae975dd849.1760380931721.1761325345428.1761328525749.10&__hssc=12939688.1.1761328525749&__hsfp=292221219)
    - [Warranty Requests](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/warranty)
- Our Homes 
    - [Our Plans](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/plans)
    - [Image Gallery](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/image-gallery)
- Contact 
    - [Contact Us](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/contact-us)
    - [Land For Sale](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/land-for-sale)
    - [Realtors](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/realtors)

 Contact

- Contact Us
- Land For Sale
- Realtors

Blog

# 5 Questions to Ask When Touring a Model Home

**Posted on:**  Aug 01, 2025

|

**Categories:** [Blog](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/blog)

Touring a model home is one of the most exciting parts of the homebuilding journey. It gives you the chance to envision how your life could look in a new home, and get a real feel for layout, design, and craftsmanship. But beyond admiring countertops and soaking tubs, it’s also a critical time to ask the right questions.

Here are five essential questions to bring with you when touring a model home:

### 1. What features are standard vs. upgraded?

Model homes are often built with a combination of standard features and optional upgrades designed to showcase the builder’s full range. It's important to clarify what’s included in the base price and what comes at an additional cost. Ask for a breakdown of standard features and a price sheet for available upgrades to avoid surprises later on.

### 2. Can the floor plan be customized?

Every buyer’s lifestyle is different. Whether you're looking to expand a kitchen, add an office, or adjust a bathroom layout, it's helpful to know how much flexibility the builder offers. Some changes may be simple, while others could require structural changes or added fees. Understanding your options early helps you make an informed decision.

### 3. What is included in the home warranty?

Reputable builders will offer a home warranty covering workmanship, materials, and major systems. Ask what is covered, how long the warranty lasts, and what the process is if you encounter an issue after moving in. This can give you added peace of mind as you prepare for homeownership

### 4. What energy-efficient or smart home features are included?

### Energy efficiency and smart home technology is important to many new home buyers. Ask if the builder includes things like high-efficiency windows, HVAC systems, smart thermostats, or energy-rated appliances. Not only can these features reduce monthly utility costs, but they also add long-term value.

### 5. What’s the estimated build timeline and what does the process look like?

If you’re considering building your own version of the model home, ask how long the process typically takes—from signing a contract to closing day. Learn about key milestones, who your point of contact will be, and how often you'll be updated along the way. The more informed you are, the smoother your experience will be.

### Ready to start touring?

At Skogman Homes, we’re here to make your homebuying journey exciting, transparent, and tailored to your needs. Our model homes are open and ready to tour—and our team is always ready to answer your questions.

### Subscribe

### Categories

- [2015 Best Places To Work (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/2015-best-places-to-work)
- [Available Homes (18)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/available-homes)
- [Blog (60)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/blog)
- [Events (6)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/events)
- [Housing Market (23)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/housing-market)
- [Media (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/media)
- [New vs. Used (7)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/new-vs-used)
- [News (14)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/news)
- [Skogman Homes CV (13)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/skogman-homes-cv)
- [skogmanhomes (3)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/skogmanhomes)
- [Testimonials (3)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/testimonials)
- [Tips & Trends (24)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/tag/tips-trends)

### Recent Posts

- [Eastern Iowa 2026 Design Trends: Why Flex Rooms Matter](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/flex-rooms-trend-2026)
- [All About Marion, Iowa: Things to Do, City Growth, and New Homes](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/things-to-do-in-marion-iowa)
- [Outdoor Living Is Becoming the Second Living Room](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/outdoor-second-living-room)
- [The Benefits of Building a Semi-Custom Home](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/benefits-of-building-semi-custom)
- [Boulder Ridge: Skogman Homes Newest Community in Marion](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/boulder-ridge-opening)

### Archives

- [July 2026 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2026/07)
- [May 2026 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2026/05)
- [April 2026 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2026/04)
- [March 2026 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2026/03)
- [February 2026 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2026/02)
- [January 2026 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2026/01)
- [December 2025 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2025/12)
- [November 2025 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2025/11)
- [October 2025 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2025/10)
- [September 2025 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2025/09)
- [August 2025 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2025/08)
- [July 2025 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2025/07)
- [June 2025 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2025/06)
- [March 2025 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2025/03)
- [November 2023 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2023/11)
- [June 2023 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2023/06)
- [March 2023 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2023/03)
- [April 2022 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2022/04)
- [February 2022 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2022/02)
- [March 2021 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2021/03)
- [February 2020 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2020/02)
- [December 2019 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2019/12)
- [October 2019 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2019/10)
- [September 2019 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2019/09)
- [July 2019 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2019/07)
- [June 2019 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2019/06)
- [April 2019 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2019/04)
- [March 2019 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2019/03)
- [February 2019 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2019/02)
- [January 2019 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2019/01)
- [November 2018 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2018/11)
- [October 2018 (3)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2018/10)
- [September 2018 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2018/09)
- [August 2018 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2018/08)
- [July 2018 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2018/07)
- [June 2018 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2018/06)
- [May 2018 (3)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2018/05)
- [April 2018 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2018/04)
- [March 2018 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2018/03)
- [February 2018 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2018/02)
- [January 2018 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2018/01)
- [December 2017 (1)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2017/12)
- [November 2017 (3)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2017/11)
- [October 2017 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2017/10)
- [September 2017 (3)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2017/09)
- [August 2017 (4)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2017/08)
- [July 2017 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2017/07)
- [June 2017 (2)](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/archive/2017/06)

## Find Your Home

- [Cedar Falls & Waterloo](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/find-your-home/iowa/cedar-falls-waterloo)
- [Cedar Rapids Metro](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/find-your-home/iowa/cedar-rapids-metro)
- [Independence](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/find-your-home/iowa/independence)

## Why Skogman

- [Our Process](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/our-process)
- [Built For You](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/built-for-you)
- [Testimonials](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/testimonials)
- [10 Year Warranty](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/ten-year-warranty)
- [Vendors & Trade Partners](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/vendors-and-trade-partners)
- [Home Trade Program](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/home-trade-program)
- [Energy Advantage](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/energy-advantage)

## Who We Are

- [Our History](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/our-history)
- [Our Team](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/our-team)

## Homebuyers

- [Financing](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/financing)
- [Promotions](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/promotions)
- [Refer a Friend](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/refer-a-friend)
- [Homeowner Maintenance](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/homeowner-maintenance)
- [Blog](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/)
- [Warranty Requests](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/warranty)

## Our Homes

- [Our Plans](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/plans)
- [Image Gallery](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/image-gallery)

## Contact

- [Contact Us](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/contact-us)
- [Land For Sale](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/land-for-sale)
- [Realtors](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/realtors)

![photo-collage](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/hs-fs/hubfs/photo-collage.jpg?width=90&height=90&name=photo-collage.jpg "photo-collage")

### Cedar Rapids Office

 417 1st Avenue SE  
 Cedar Rapids, IA 52401  
[Call (319) 363-8285](tel:+13193638285)

![Justin Headshot-3](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Justin%20Headshot-3.png?width=90&height=90&name=Justin%20Headshot-3.png "Justin Headshot-3")

### Cedar Falls Office

 2928 Arbors Dr  
 Cedar Falls, IA 50613  
[Call (319) 277-7862](tel:+13192777862)

![angel-west-1](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/hs-fs/hubfs/angel-west-1.png?width=90&height=90&name=angel-west-1.png "angel-west-1")

### Cedar Rapids Warranty

 Our homes have a 10-year guarantee.  
[Call (319) 727-8688](tel:+13197278688)

![skogman-logo](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/hs-fs/hubfs/skogman-logo.png?width=200&name=skogman-logo.png "skogman-logo")

<https://www.facebook.com/skogmanhomes/> <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYMTW3yV5GOm6N_n9OyuJAg> <https://www.pinterest.com/skogmanhomesIA/> <https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/skogmanhomes/> <https://www.houzz.com/pro/skogman/__public>

[Buildertrend Login](https://buildertrend.net/)

 © Copyright 2026, Skogman Homes. All Rights Reserved.  
[Home Builder Website Design](https://bluetangerine.com/service/home-builder-websites) by [Blue Tangerine](https://bluetangerine.com)

![Home Warranty Logo](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/hs-fs/hubfs/hsa-logo.png?width=81&name=hsa-logo.png "Home Warranty Logo")

![Realtor Logo](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/hs-fs/hubfs/realtor-logo.png?width=36&name=realtor-logo.png "Realtor Logo")

![Equal Housing Opportunity Logo](https://blog.skogmanhomes.com/hs-fs/hubfs/equal-housing-opportunity-logo.png?width=37&name=equal-housing-opportunity-logo.png "Equal Housing Opportunity Logo")

[Site Map](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/sitemap) | [Legal & Privacy Policy](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/legal) | [Accessibility](https://www.skogmanhomes.com/accessibility)