The Parade of Homes may be over, but if touring this year’s homes left you thinking, “Maybe it’s finally time to build,”now is the perfect time to start planning.
A 2027 move-in might feel like it’s still a ways away, but building a custom home involves much more than the months you see construction happening on site. From finding the right lot and finalizing a floor plan to making design selections and preparing for construction, there are plenty of decisions to make before breaking ground.
The good news? Starting now gives you time to enjoy the process instead of rushing through it.
Start With Your Wish List
After walking through the Parade of Homes, you probably have a much better idea of what you love, and maybe a few things you know you don’t want.
Now is the time to start putting those ideas down on paper. Think about the way you actually live day to day. How many bedrooms do you need? Do you want an open-concept main level? A dedicated home office? A larger mudroom? A walk-in pantry? An entertaining space? More storage?
Don’t worry about having every detail figured out yet. Your initial wish list gives the Brookstone team a starting point for understanding your priorities and creating a home that fits your lifestyle.

Find the Right Lot
Where you build is just as important as what you build.
If you're planning for 2027, now is the time to start exploring available lots, and we currently have lots available in Southdale Farms, giving future homeowners the opportunity to start planning their build in this growing community in Horace.
As you consider the right lot, think about the details that matter most to you: location within the neighborhood, lot size, backyard orientation, proximity to amenities and how the lot will work with the home you envision. Starting early gives you more opportunity to find the right fit for both your plans and your priorities.
Start Talking About Your Budget
One of the most important early conversations is establishing a realistic budget for your new home.
Your budget affects everything from square footage and floor plan to finishes, features and the lot you select. Having that conversation early allows your builder to help you understand where to prioritize your investment and how different decisions may affect the overall project.
You don't need to have every number figured out before reaching out. That's part of why starting the conversation early is so valuable.

Turn Parade Inspiration Into a Plan
If you took photos, saved screenshots or made mental notes while touring Parade homes, don't forget about them! Those details can help you narrow down not only the style you love, but how you want your future home to live and function.
Brookstone offers a variety of thoughtfully designed home plans for families of different sizes and lifestyles. Maybe you loved the idea of the Rosestone's rambler-style layout and easy flow for everyday living and entertaining, or you're drawn to the Brownstone for its convenient one-level living. If your family needs more separation and flexible space, plans like the Redstone or Blackstone offer three-level split designs, while the Whitestone provides a traditional two-story option.
Meet With Your Builder Early
You don't need a finished floor plan, a purchased lot or every design selection picked out before contacting Brookstone.
In fact, getting your builder involved earlier can make the entire process easier.
An initial conversation gives you an opportunity to discuss your timeline, budget, ideas and questions while learning more about what needs to happen between “We want to build” and move-in day.
If your goal is to be living in your new home in 2027, starting those conversations now gives everyone more time to thoughtfully plan the details.

Your 2027 Home Starts Now
Now it's time to decide which of those ideas could become part of your home.
Whether you already know exactly what you want or you're still figuring it out, you don't have to wait until 2027 to start the process.
Thinking about building in 2027? Let's start planning. Contact Brookstone Companies today to talk about your ideas, timeline and next steps toward building a home designed for the way you live.

