Summary

• Pacesetter Homes won the Best Video award at the 2026 Dallas Builders Association McSam Awards.
• The winning video focuses on everyday life in a Pacesetter Home and highlights standard features, not upgrades.
• The recognition reinforces Pacesetter Homes’ commitment to lifestyle-focused storytelling in a competitive market.

Dallas-Fort Worth, TX – Pacesetter Homes Dallas-Fort Worth has been recognized for its approach to brand storytelling, winning the Best Video award at the 2026 Dallas Builders Association McSam Awards.

This honour celebrates a marketing project that shifts the focus away from traditional sales messaging and instead highlights what it feels like to live in a Pacesetter Home.

The video was created to clearly communicate the value built into every home, while supporting the sales experience in a natural way.

“The goal was to highlight the products and features that come standard in our homes without it feeling like a sales pitch,” said Mel McLaughlin, Marketing Manager, Pacesetter Homes Dallas-Fort Worth. “It also functions as a silent seller in our model homes, playing throughout the space and sparking organic conversations between our sales team and buyers.”

A lifestyle-first approach to storytelling

Rather than listing features, the video follows a family through a full day in their home, from morning routines to winding down in the evening. The approach was intentional.

“We wanted to focus on what day-to-day life feels like in a Pacesetter Home and how the home supports the homeowner. By showing the home in use, we could create an emotional connection and emphasize livability.”

This storytelling approach helped differentiate the video in the Dallas-Fort Worth market, where buyers are often overwhelmed by options. The emphasis on authenticity and relatability allowed viewers to picture themselves in the space, rather than being sold to.

Reinforcing value in a competitive market

A key message woven throughout the video is that the features shown are standard, not upgrades.

“Many builders are removing design details and technology to reduce pricing. At Pacesetter Homes, we continue to include those features and focus our cost savings elsewhere. It was important for viewers to clearly understand that distinction.”

While the award itself has drawn industry recognition, Mel noted that buyer feedback continues to align with the video’s intent. Conversations with homeowners consistently focus on the value and features included in their homes, reinforcing the message the video was designed to deliver.

A proud moment for the team

Winning the McSam Award was especially meaningful for the team behind the project.

“We used family members of our staff, myself included, which gave the project a personal element. A lot of time also went into refining our submission, so bringing home the trophy was a proud moment for everyone involved.”

Looking ahead, the recognition is shaping future marketing efforts.

“This award reinforces our commitment to staying lifestyle-focused and authentic. When we stay true to who we are as a brand, our strongest work is still ahead.”