Lennox recently introduced ComfortZoneâ„¢, an interactive Web-based tool to help builders sell home comfort system upgrades and options to new home buyers. The system is designed to allow builders to set themselves apart from the competition by providing homeowners with added comfort.

Big Builder Magazine conducted a home buyer satisfaction survey of 800 home builders. In it, buyers ranked "options and up-grades" as No. 2, right after "installation and workmanship." Builders, on the other hand, ranked options and upgrades as No. 6.

"Studies have shown most home buyers are willing to pay extra for systems that enhance comfort, a fact most of the building industry has overlooked," said Vickie Ashmore, marketing manager, Lennox Industries. "ComfortZone provides builders with a tool to help sell home comfort system upgrades."

Aiding Builders

A ComfortZone Web site can be designed for a dealer's site to make selling options and upgrades as easy and fast as possible, according to Ashmore. Dealers can decide which packages to offer. With the utility zones preloaded, an energy cost calculator can automatically calculate potential cost savings as the homebuyer selects upgrades, Ashmore indicated.

"The site provides a value-added service to new homebuyers to address comfort concerns and increase satisfaction," said Ashmore. "Dealers also benefit by setting themselves apart from the competition. Starting the selling process before homes are built takes the selling burden off, and links dealers to an industry leader your customers know and trust."