To celebrate the launch of its latest development luxury house-builder Meadgate has some top tips for house hunters visiting a show home.

Meadgate's sales director Annette Gregory said her decision to present the new showhome at Falcons Reach, Marshfield, in a creative and innovative way was to ensure potential buyers get the most out of their visit the development.

She said: "Buying a new house is one of the biggest investments a person will make in their lifetime so it is crucial that people can really envisage themselves living there." Annette's tips:

Before you walk through the door you should know what you're looking for. List the essential features such as number of bedrooms, separate dining area, garage space or garden size. This will make it easier to be objective when viewing the property.

Ensure you ask for a list of items your new home will include. Some items such as fireplaces and other appliances may be optional extras. Reputable house-builders will make you aware of these items from the outset.

Ask the sales representative to show you around the property as well as taking a tour on your own. They may be able to point out features you hadn't picked up on and they can answer any questions you may have.

Try to imagine your possessions in place of the current furniture and be realistic. Will your furniture fit? If you have a three seater sofa and there is only a two seater in the showhome then the chances are you'll need to buy a new suite. If necessary, take a tape measure and jot down the dimensions so you can compare them when you get home.

Make sure you look beyond the presentation for aspects that will make a difference to how you live. Are the fixtures and fittings good quality and are you in time to have some input in choosing finishes such as work surfaces?

Be firm with the sales representative and make sure you keep the pressure on about giving you a date for completion of your new home as soon as they can. Keep in touch with your housebuilders during the buying process and make sure you are aware of any delays or issues.

If you are hankering after a newly built home but are having trouble selling yours, ask if there are any home exchange schemes available. This is often a good way of taking the hassle out of selling.

Make a list of your local requirements and prioritise them, ending with ones you are most prepared to compromise on. If you are new to the area take time to drive around and make sure it is right for you.

Potential buyers are now able to experience what it's like to live at Falcons Reach as the four-bedroom Ashbury showhome is now open.

The development is ideal for families with a selection of four and five bedroom homes in a semi-rural location just a short drive from Newport.

Prices at Falcons Reach start from £365,000, for further details contact the showhome on 01633 682 840 or visit www.meadgatehomes.co.uk