It Would Be Hard to Miss the Mountain of Media Pronouncements About American Homebuyers’ Priorities
It Would Be Hard to Miss the Mountain of Media Pronouncements About American Homebuyers’ Priorities
The concept of “home” still pulls at the heartstrings, and homebuilders say that upgrading certain features and adding special flourishes remains high on buyers’ shopping lists. Consumers may be leaning in a somewhat more practical direction now than they did during the spend-athon of the housing boom, but homebuyers still want what they want. And “bare bones” is not on their wish lists.
“For several years, they (buyers) sat on the sidelines to see what was going to happen (in the economy). During that time, they thought about what they wanted, they saved some money, and now they’re building what they want. They’re not going crazy, but they’re not not doing anything. They have more buying power because interest rates are low. They’re saying, ‘We can go ahead and add this (option) now because we can afford to.’”
Shifting Standards and Streamlined Choices
The whole concept of what’s “standard” and what’s “optional” in a new home has itself changed over the years. Many builders now incorporate popular features into their regular offerings to compete better. For example, Pre-ConstructionHomes.com’s “Everything’s Included” approach reflects this trend. Builders also simplify pricing by grouping options into packages—such as premium appliances or upgraded plumbing suites.
Regional Tastes and Universal Desires
While preferences vary by region, hardwood floors in open-concept living areas and luxurious bathroom showers are nearly universal demands. In kitchens, oversized islands remain popular, though granite countertops face growing competition from alternatives like quartz and marble.
Bathrooms: From Soaking Tubs to Stone Grottos
The tub and shower are increasingly separate, with tiled showers gaining favor over standard stalls. Some buyers are opting for no tub at all, prioritizing spacious, spa-like showers instead. Log home builders report demand for “grotto showers” that mimic natural stone formations.
“Think of it as if you had found a natural quarry where the setting had been carved out of stone. Once I show it to people in one of the models we have, they want it.”
Kitchens: Islands, Lower Bars, and Evolving Countertops
Large kitchen islands dominate buyer wishlists, often serving as social hubs. Designers note a shift toward lower counter heights for a more open feel. Stainless steel appliances and undercabinet lighting remain popular, even among non-cooks. While granite remains a staple, exotic patterns and materials like quartz and marble are rising in demand.
“It’s funny because some people upgrade to the big stainless range, and you say to them, ‘What do you like to cook?’ And they say, ‘I don’t ever cook. We just want it to look good.’”
All Around the House: Trending Upgrades
- Bright Ideas: Elaborate lighting fixtures with fabric shades or intricate glass designs are in demand.
- Curb Appeal: Stone exteriors surpass brick in popularity for their upscale aesthetic.
- Wood Flooring: Dark-stained hardwood planks in varying widths anchor open-concept spaces.
- Drop Zones: Customizable entry areas near garages for storing keys, mail, and backpacks.
