New Home Features that are on the way “in” and “out”
The top 10 trends in new homes, according to a new survey from the National Association of Home Builders showed an increased interest among buyers in energy efficiency. Based on the people I am helping find homes I am finding that one of the most important features of any home is its proximity to their work place. After that I would say that energy efficiency and closets are next on the list. The laundry room is another and I’m not sure if the location of the laundry is as important as the fact that it be organized and less grungy than laundry rooms of the past.
Listed below are the findings of the National Association of Home Builders survey of what’s “IN”. Even if we aren’t considering a new home these trends are helpful for those of us considering remodeling in the near future.
- Walk-in master bedroom closet
- Laundry room
- Low-e windows
- Guest room (kitchen-family-room-living room) – I’m not sure what this actually means by the way
- Energy-star rated appliances
- 9-foot ceiling or more on first floor
- Energy-star rated windows
- Programmable thermostat
- Two-car garage
- Granite countertop in kitchen
Here is what the survey found to be “OUT” and I’m not sure I agree with all of these:
- Outdoor kitchen (cooking, refrigeration and sink)
- Laminate countertops in kitchens (I absolutely love laminate and don’t understand this trend)
- Outdoor fireplace
- Sunroom
- Two-story family room
- Media room
- Two-story foyer
- Walking/jogging trails in community
- Whirlpool in master bathroom
- Carpeting as flooring on main level
In the end though, your home is your castle and it would be a boring life if we all wanted the same thing. These top 10 trends might not fit into everyone’s lifestyle. I, personally, like to spice my own home up with things that make me happy – even if they are laminate counters. This article on return on investment on home improvements will add further insight into housing trends.
Source: National Association of Realtors
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