Largest turnout ever for Parade of Homes

Seek more proof the home construction market is back?

Here's another sign: The Tampa Bay Builders Association is getting ready for its annual Tampa Bay Parade of Homes — and it's one for the record books.

More than 80 communities throughout Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and other counties will feature 148 model homes from 35 builders in the show, which begins April 11. It's a display of the latest new home designs and housing trends, each model judged by a panel of building industry professionals on site plan, curb appeal, design, materials, outdoor living spaces, architectural detailing and workmanship.

The Parade of Homes is designed to bring new buyers into the market, looking at what builders are offering in new construction projects.

Homes by WestBay was the big winner last year in the Tampa Bay Parade of Homes, when the firm earned seven awards, including four grand prizes. K. Hovnanian Homes grabbed the Grand Diamond Award for highest overall judging score, for its Wellington at Grand Cypress community in Palm Harbor.

The Parade of Homes continues through April 26, with models open between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. every day except Sundays, when the homes are open noon to 6 p.m.