The 2026 WNC Parade of Homes, Presented by Warmstead, is underway, and each year we hear many of the same questions from builders, remodelers, developers, and industry partners who are considering participation.
In fact, some projects that would be a great fit for the Parade never get entered because of common misconceptions about eligibility and participation. Similar misconceptions also prevent companies from exploring sponsorship, advertising, and other opportunities to participate in the Parade.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your project qualifies—or whether there is a place for your company to get involved—you’re not alone. Here are five of the most common misconceptions we hear and the facts behind them.
Misconception #1: The Parade Is Only for Luxury Homes
One of the most common assumptions we hear is that the Parade is only for high-end or luxury homes.
While the Parade certainly includes custom homes and unique projects, it is designed to showcase the breadth of residential construction across Western North Carolina. Homeowners attend the Parade looking for ideas, inspiration, craftsmanship, and connections with local builders—not just luxury finishes.
The Parade showcases a variety of homes, styles, sizes, and price points, reflecting the diverse housing opportunities available throughout our region.
Misconception #2: The Parade Is Only for New Homes
Many people are surprised to learn that the WNC Parade of Homes includes more than newly constructed homes.
In addition to Showcase Homes, the Parade offers participation opportunities through Renewed Spaces, Community Highlights, and Coming Soon categories.
Renewed Spaces allows builders and remodelers to showcase transformative renovations and additions. In fact, eight Renewed Spaces projects participated in the 2025 WNC Parade of Homes, and these projects are eligible for judging and awards.
Community Highlights provide an opportunity to showcase exceptional neighborhoods and developments, while Coming Soon entries allow builders to promote projects that are still under construction but expected to be completed in the future.
The Parade is designed to showcase the diversity of residential construction and development taking place throughout Western North Carolina—not just newly completed homes.
Misconception #3: The Parade Is Only for Builders
While builders are at the heart of the WNC Parade of Homes, they are not the only organizations that participate.
The Parade offers opportunities for remodelers, developers, community representatives, suppliers, and industry partners to connect with homeowners throughout Western North Carolina.
In addition to home entries, companies can participate through sponsorship opportunities, magazine advertising, website advertising, and Parade Partner programs.
The Parade is designed to highlight the people, projects, products, and communities that help shape the homes and neighborhoods throughout our region.
Misconception #4: If I Can’t Open My Home for Tours, I Can’t Participate
While the Parade is best known for its in-person tours, participation opportunities are not limited to projects that are open to the public.
Showcase Homes, Renewed Spaces, and Community Highlights are featured online and may also be open for in-person tours, giving homeowners multiple ways to experience the project.
In some cases, projects may participate as virtual-only entries when public tours are not feasible.
While we strongly encourage in-person participation whenever possible, virtual opportunities provide flexibility for occupied homes, unique circumstances, or projects that may not be available for public touring.
Misconception #5: My Project Is Already Finished, So It Doesn’t Qualify
For the 2026 WNC Parade of Homes, homes with a Certificate of Occupancy dated between August 1, 2025, and October 5, 2026, are generally eligible to participate.
We recognize that many projects throughout Western North Carolina have experienced unique circumstances and delays related to Hurricane Helene. If your project falls outside the standard eligibility window, we encourage you to reach out and start the conversation. We are happy to discuss individual situations and participation opportunities.
Let’s Talk About Getting Involved
In 2025, the WNC Parade of Homes featured 42 entries representing a variety of home styles, project types, builders, and communities throughout Western North Carolina. The diversity of projects is one of the things that makes the Parade a valuable resource for homeowners and an effective platform for participants.
Whether you’re interested in entering a home, showcasing a community, promoting your company through advertising, becoming a sponsor, or participating as a Parade Partner, there are a variety of ways to get involved.
The next entry deadline is June 24, with final entries due July 22. Companies interested in advertising through the official WNC Parade of Homes Magazine should note that final artwork is due August 4.
For more information about participation opportunities or to discuss a potential project, contact Events Manager Jessie Edington at jessie@ashevillehba.com or visit the Get Involved page on the WNC Parade of Homes website.
About the 2026 WNC Parade of Homes
Presented by Warmstead, the WNC Parade of Homes showcases exceptional residential construction throughout Western North Carolina and connects homeowners with the builders, remodelers, developers, designers, and industry professionals shaping our communities.
