This is one of our favorite times of the year. The Spring Parade of Homes is going on now and we can’t wait to see you at our models. This year, NIH Homes has three models in the Parade of Homes. Click here to see the homes on the tour. The Parade of Homes is a great way to discover what is new in home building. It’s a great resource for those who are building a home for the first time or those who are seasoned in the home building process. There’s always something new to discover at the Parade of Homes, and it’s a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful homes in the Twin Cities.

The Parade of Homes takes place at homes scattered throughout the Twin Cities. It is free to tour all of them except for the Artisan Dream Homes, a $5 donation is required for those and proceeds help to build and remodel homes for those in need.

The Parade of Homes Spring Tour begins February 24th and runs through March 25th (Thursdays through Sundays).

Here’s more info about the Parade of Homes

What is the Parade of Homes?

The Parade of Homes is a scattered site tour of new homes. Twice a year in the Twin Cities, builder members of the Builders Association of the Twin Cities (BATC) open hundreds of models, spec and pre-sold homes for people to tour. Details are included in a printed magazine Guidebook and online at ParadeofHomes.org.

How much does it cost to tour?

Touring is always free, except for one to four homes that are selected by the BATC Foundation as their Artisan Dream Homes, with a $5 entry donation required. All proceeds help the Foundation build and remodel homes for area families in need.

Why is the Parade of Homes so popular?

Since 1949, anyone looking to make a move or simply interested in seeing the latest home designs, neighborhoods, or colors and accessories for their own homes have found the Parade of Homes is a great resource. With hundreds of new homes across the region, visitors can choose to visit them by location, price range and style. As a whole, the Parade of Homes truly does showcase the entire range of what new homes have to offer. Homes are all open specified hours over four or five weeks, and each home is priced accurately so you can see real costs associated with buying a new home.

How can I stay updated about the Parade of Homes?

The ParadeofHomes.org website is where you’ll find dates for upcoming tours, resources to help you make smart housing decisions, and search for homes still open to tour as well as builders and remodelers all year long. You can also sign up for our monthly newsletter which is chock full of our favorite new homes, design and décor ideas, and fun facts about home!

Who builds the homes featured on the Parade of Homes?

Every Parade Home is constructed by a builder member of the Builders Association of the Twin Cities, a trade organization providing marketing, advocacy and industry connections to member businesses. Members have access to resources and education that helps them stay on top of their game. They share best practices, learn about new products, services and techniques, and connect with trade partners, helping to assure homebuyers in the Twin Cities of a healthy, vibrant housing market.

Where can I find out more about the Builders?

All of the builders with homes on the tour are easily searched online at ParadeofHomes.org in the Builder search. Filters help select the right builder, while links between their recent Parade Homes and their company website make sure you have all the research material you need.

When can I tour the Parade of Homes?

The Parade of Homes generally opens in March for a five-week tour; and in September for four weeks. Homes are always open Thursdays through Sundays from noon to 6:00 pm.

What if I’m not in the market for a new home?

Many of the people who tour Parade Homes aren’t ready to make a change yet, but that’s OK. Besides providing a great shopping experience for those who are planning a move, the Parade of Homes is designed to help showcase the benefits and value of new homes. We know most Minnesotan’s will become homeowners at some point, and we believe people should have the information they need to make the best choices for their needs — and there’s no better way to discover all about new homes than on the Parade of Homes. Additionally, new homes are where you can see the latest in style and design — and our builders love to show off their “art” — so if you’re just looking for a neat new color to paint your bedroom, you’re more than likely going to find it on the tour!

Where can I get information about the homes on the tour?

Free, printed Guidebooks are available beginning about two weeks prior to each tour in racks at regional Holiday Stationstores. The Guidebooks include information about all of the homes on tour, plus interesting articles and an extensive style section showing off the latest décor items. The Guidebook is available at ParadeofHomes.org in e-magazine format, too. And of course, ParadeofHomes.org is your online resource with everything in the Guidebook plus many more filters and resources to make touring fun and easy; and to bring you valuable information year round.

Can I plan my tour online?

Yes! Our online Trip Planner is easy to use. Start at your desktop at ParadeofHomes.org. Register your email and begin searching for homes to tour. Mark homes you like as “Favorites,” then when you’re ready to plan a tour, use the Trip Planner drop-down menu under the Tour search. You can choose some or all of the homes you “favorited,” and ask the system to map the most convenient tour. Then you can log on using your smart phone to access your trip route as you tour.