Visiting a home show can be overwhelming. There’s so much to see and do that it’s hard to take it all in.

How do you know you’re seeing the right exhibits or talking to the right people about your project?

The West Branch Builders Home Show features 25,000 square feet of exhibits by over 160 vendors. Not only are there are exhibitors in the four product categories (garden/outdoor, construction/remodeling, home interiors and kitchen/cooking), there are several specialty vendors showing everything from custom railings to new cooking techniques.
Navigating a Home Show

We pulled together ten tips for successfully navigating a home show:

1. Check out the vendor maps and directories in this Home Show insert to get some ideas on which exhibitors you would like to visit.
2. Research websites like those of the West Branch Builders Association at http://www.westbranchbuilders.org or the Better Business Bureau to gather additional information on exhibitors.
3. Make a plan to maximize your time. Prioritize the things you want to see.
4. Take photos and measurements of the projects or areas you are considering making changes to in your home. Specifics are helpful when talking to a contractor or other exhibitor about your project or needs.
5. Write down all the questions you can think of.
6. Take advantage of special features and free consultations.
7. It’s OK to bring the kids — there are family-friendly features and activities to keep them entertained.
8. Give yourself plenty of time.
9. Wear comfortable shoes.
10. A supply of address labels makes it easier to enter drawings for all the freebies.