Luxury homes these days can provide just about any amenity you want, if you are willing to pay for it. Finding a home that has EVERYTHING you want may be unrealistic, but chances are you will find something that meets most of your needs, and you can make the needed modifications before you move in, or after living there for a bit.
So, what are the amenities YOU are looking for. Just as for a new buyer, it is important to have a good idea of what is really matters to you, so that you don't waste your time previewing properties that don't meet your specifications. It might help to create a master list so you can keep track as you tour homes.
Here are some general categories to ponder. The intent here is NOT to provide you with an all-inclusive list but to get you thinking about the amenities, etc you might be seeking in your new home::
Finishes - rare and exotic woods for floors, walls, ceilings and/or moldings; 200-year-old limestone from France, unusual marble/granite/travertine surfaces (floors, counters, walls in baths), crystal lighting (Baccarat or other); custom paint and hand painted murals (walls, ceiling treatments); high-quality fixtures in baths and kitchens (possibly gold, bronze); custom stone/metal/glass work (stainless steel, bronze, wrought-iron)
Electrical - all-house computer-controlled lighting systems, possibly including light-sensored blinds and/or drapes on windows, all-house climate control, etc. Do you want to live in a true "Smart House?"; highest quality wiring for Internet, etc. in offices and other areas where computers may be used.
Rooms in general - several family gathering rooms; full bath en suite for every bedroom, with dual baths for "him" and "her" in the master; large separate dressing areas for both in the master plus extra-large and separate walk-in closets with cabinetry/drawers for storage and possibly a climate controlled room for furs (with security); safe for jewelry; extra large main kitchen with 1-2 supplemental kitchens for catered events and guests, including a full-accessorized outdoor kitchen; wine cellar; media room; library; separate his and hers offices with custom-built in cabinetry (including small personal kitchen and bath); full-equipped gym; spa room with showers, kitchen, saunas, steam baths; living quarters for in-house staff (or separate house), etc. etc.
Other buildings and features - guest house(s); gardener's room; large climate-controlled garage with room for 4 or more cars; private runway/landing strip or nearby access to private airport; security fencing with gate, cameras, etc.; one or more pools (with cabanas), tennis courts (possibly lighted), other sport facilities (indoor tennis, racquetball, basketball, bowling); dockage for yacht or sailboats, or easy access to waterways; outdoor dining areas, patios, viewing decks; water features (fountains, reflecting pools); gardens (rare or specimen plants and trees)
Design and style - are you seeking a home by a particular architect? A specific style (Mediterranean, Italian, contemporary, historic/antique); do you need a certain square footage (5,000 SF, 10,000 SF); What about acreage? Is being in a gate-guarded enclave important or a must-have? What about security in general? Are you interested in a home you can remodel with your own architect and decorator, or must it be move-in ready?
These are just a few of the things you might consider. Good luck, and please let me know if I can help in any way.
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