The 2010 BIA Parade of Homes, which most people refer to as the “Columbus Parade of Homes” kicked off last weekend in New Albany, in a subdivision called Ackerley Park. We must still be in a recession, since there are only 8 homes in the Parade this year. I think this is probably a smart number of homes. When there are 12-20 homes, as in years past, all but the most unique homes get blurred in the normal, one-and-done visitors mind. Also, it makes good sense to feature custom builders in the parade. I remember the 2003 Parade of Homes in the Shawnee Crossing subdivision in Pickerington, which featured 21 homes, far to many to see in one afternoon. Many of the builders featured were tract home builders such as (the now gone) Beazer Homes, Dominion, and Maronda. A good idea from a marketing standpoint for those builders, but I think many of those homes lost value, even before the “recession”. Every year at the parade, I say: “If I was spending this much on a home, I wouldn’t want to live this close to my neighbors.” Maybe those folks don’t enjoy mowing like I do…
