Home Buyers Reveal What They Want in Their Next Home
As the spring home-buying season kicks into full gear, the home-building industry celebrates New Homes Month in April. If you’re looking for a new home, you’re probably considering the essential features on your must-have list. Do you wonder if other home buyers are looking for the same things?
A recent survey from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals what consumers look for when house hunting. The survey asked firsttime buyers and existing homeowners about the features they consider essential.
The survey shows that now, more than ever, future homeowners want to have a connection to the outdoors and ample space in the kitchen. The must-haves for the outside of a home include exterior lighting, garage storage, front porch, patio, and landscaping. Popular interior must-haves included a walk-in pantry and table space in the kitchen. Three kitchen features stood out in the survey: NAHB noted that in the past ten years, built-in kitchen seating, outdoor kitchens and quartz or engineered stone for kitchen countertops have grown in popularity.
Buyers also look to technology to ensure safety and comfort while at home. Among the top tech features sought out are security cameras, wired home security systems, programmable thermostats, video doorbells, multizone HVAC systems and energy management systems.
In addition, the survey found that buyers are shifting their preferences on home size and overall design preferences. The average size of a new home continues to inch smaller — dropping from 2,479 square feet in 2022 to 2,411 square feet in 2023, the smallest average size in 13 years. The change in square footage represents home builders’ efforts to match buyer preferences for smaller homes.
Look at new homes whenever you can. Home shows and open houses sponsored by builders are good opportunities to look at homes to get an idea of what your family needs. Model homes and houses displayed in home shows are often furnished to give you ideas on what you want in your next home. You may also ask a builder to see unfurnished homes.
When touring homes, look at the quality of the construction features. Inspect the quality of the cabinetry, carpeting, trim work, and paint. Ask the builder or the builder’s representative any questions you might have and be sure to take notes. Never hesitate to ask a question. What seems like an insignificant question might yield an important answer. Please visit the Association’s website at www.sabuilders.com to find a list of Builders, Remodelers, Vendors, Suppliers and Service Providers!