Oct. 2, 2006 - Size doesn't matter anymore

The National Association of Home Builders, is a Washington based trade association.  They represents more than 222,000 members involved in residential and light commercial construction.  They have come up with some wants and needs of home buyers today.

Given the choice between more space or higher quality features, the latter was overwhelmingly opted for.  Given the choice between a larger home or more amenities 63% chose the amenities.  57% preferred them to be included in the base cost of the new home.  43% wanted them to be offered as extras for an additional  cost.

What do these home buyers want?

Kitchen with a walk in pantry 84%

Island work area 77%

Special-use storage 62%

Built in Microwave 62%

Kitchen open and visible to the family room 34%

Linen closets in bathroom 91%

Exhaust Fan 88%

Separate shower enclosure 78%

9 ft. ceilings are more popular than ft. makes the house feel more open, bigger and brighter.

Asked about more space in the master bedroom or more in the master bath, 69% wanted more room in the master bedroom.

Looking for trends in the next 5 years.  Predicted is low maintenance, energy efficiency, natural materials, synthetic stucco,and security on the outside of the house.

Another emerging item in higher end homes is a bonus room above the 3 car garage.  These rooms can be over a 1000 ft and include a full bath.  It is used as a guest room, office, or in law quarters.