A recent survey from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals what home features are among the most wanted this year. The survey participants, first-time homebuyers and current homeowners, ranked features based on how essential they are to a home-purchasing decision.
Homebuyers ranked a separate laundry room and energy-saving features, such as Energy Star appliances, windows, and house certification, among their most desired features. More than a third consider a patio, garage storage, and exterior lighting to be must-haves.
When asked specifically about kitchen features, 75 percent said a walk-in pantry, double sink, table space, a central island, and granite countertops were musts in their homes. Two-thirds said they prefer stainless steel appliances.
By a significant margin, homebuyers prefer open layouts. The amount of space varied across generations; millennials wanted more space than what they currently have, while seniors want to downsize. Recent trends indicate new homes are decreasing in size with fewer bedrooms and bathrooms.
Single-family homes continue to be the first choice for the majority of buyers, but location preferences vary by generation. A quarter of millennials prefer the central city, twice the rate of any other generation; however, half of millennials would prefer to live in the suburbs like Gen-Xers and Baby Boomers, and more than 80 percent of seniors prefer the suburbs.
Unlike other preferences, home technology is strong across all generations. Their top technology preference is home security that includes security cameras, a video doorbell, and a wireless security system, but homebuyers remain divided about the need for voice command technology.
Next week, the Home Building Industry will recognize excellence in home building and remodeling with its Sixth Annual Bridge Awards. Get ready to read more about the latest trends and ideas. Visit HBAofGreenville.comfor more information.