Show houses are rarely all they seem at first sight, because builders often create illusions that would put David Copperfield to shame...estate agent Tony Booth reveals some tricks of the trade...

Newly built houses are alluring and attractive...and many of us have been drawn into buying one after visiting an estate show house.

Show homes are the developer's shop window and the way in which they are presented fills us with enthusiasm and aspiration.

But they are rarely all they might appear to be at first sight.

Show houses are purposely presented to make the biggest possible impact on the would-be homebuyer. A great deal of thought and money goes into stylising the interiors, decorating and furnishing them, all of which are usually created by in-vogue interior designers and fashion gurus. The result is a product that entices, excites and enthuses buyers to part with their money.