The annual Spring Cottage Life Show is fast approaching for us in Ontario. This is the most productive and profitable show that I have exhibited at, and attended for the past 15 years.If you are planning a building project for this season(or planning for a few years ahead), this is a great place to meet builders, real-estate agents, and dream big! But there are a few things to look out for:
The sales schmooze
Not all sales people are created equal. You may be talking to the owner of the company, a commission sales person, or possibly the office administrator who has been pulled from work to "man the booth" for the weekend. Ask lots of questions, and don't waste time with anyone who doesn't seem to know what they are talking about. Go with your gut. If you don't really like the person, don't work with them.
"Show pricing" or "ballpark pricing"
If you are building a new cottage, or doing renovations on an existing building, don't try and nail down a price from somebody at a trade show. Unless you have blueprints/working drawings, the price will not be accurate. Costs per-square-foot don't mean anything until you get it in writing. Give them your email or phone number, and get a proper estimate a little later.
Watch your Watch!
The Cottage Life Show is a large show. You will NOT be able to see all of it in one visit, AND also have any meaningful interactions with exhibits that actually interest you. Decide what you need to do, do it, and then enjoy what time you have left.
I will be at the Thermo Seal Insulation Systems Booth all weekend. Drop by and say hi!
