We’re excited to walk you through the selections process! To make it smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free, here’s what you can expect before, during, and after your first vendor visit.

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1. Before Your First Vendor Visit

This is where the fun begins—but there are a few key things to know before we get started:

✅ Do’s

• Know your style. Collect inspiration photos (Pinterest, Houzz, magazines).

• Keep your budget in mind. Vendors already know your allowances, so they’ll guide you within range.

• Think about function. Durable floors? Easy-clean surfaces? Features you can’t live without?

• Bring your notes. Vendors already have your final plans, but your notes highlight what matters most to you.

🚫 Don’ts

• No window shopping. These visits are for making final decisions, not browsing.

• Don’t contact vendors directly. All communication runs through MDC so nothing gets missed.

• Don’t use unapproved vendors. We choose partners for reliability, pricing, and terms that protect you.

Tips & Tricks

• Expect weekday appointments: most vendors are open Mon–Fri, 9–5. A few open Sat mornings, but it’s limited.

• Plan for at least 3–4 days in town for selections.

• Stay flexible—vendors (and reps) also have schedules, vacations, and other clients.

• Remember: this is decision time. Be ready to choose and move forward.

2. During & After Your First Vendor Visit

Here’s how to get the most out of your time in the showroom:

At the Appointment

• Take photos of your selections. It’s not required, but it helps you remember details and gives us a visual reference when placing orders later.

• Stay on schedule. If your time runs over, we’ll reschedule rather than make the next vendor wait.

• If you’re running early or late, call ahead. Vendors are accommodating, and a quick heads-up helps them prepare for you.

• Ask smart questions:

  • Are there options in my budget?

  • What are the care or maintenance requirements?

  • Are there color/finish alternatives?

  • How will this choice work with my other selections?

Budget & Changes

• If you choose something over budget, no problem—just know we’ll need payment for the overage before ordering.

• Changing your mind after an item is ordered will result in a $250 change order fee (plus any vendor fees).

After the Visit

• Take notes and photos to help you compare options later.

• Organize your ideas—mood boards, binders, or a digital folder work great.

• Be open to surprises! Sometimes the best choice is one you didn’t expect.

• Remember: these visits are meant for finalizing selections. Minor tweaks are possible later, but this trip is key to keeping your build on schedule.

3. What to Expect Next

Once your first round of selections is complete, here’s how the rest of the process works:

• Selections Online:

  • Custom Home Clients: About 20% can be done online (doors, handles, paint).

  • MDC Designs Clients: About 50% is done online using our selection sheets.

• Communication:

  • Please allow up to 48 hours for a response. Larger question lists may take 3–5 days.

  • All communication continues to run through MDC, not vendors.

• Flexibility is key. Scheduling with multiple vendors means we need some give and take.

• Enjoy the process! This is one of the most exciting parts of your build. Nearly all of our clients who follow the process say it made the experience smoother, faster, and more fun.

✨ Building your home should be exciting—and it is! By following these steps, you’ll stay on track, on budget, and enjoy the journey from selections to move-in