
Want to know the best way to increase home value? It’s simple. Just like any other product – make it exactly what buyers want. And while every buyer is slightly different, there are broad lifestyle trends that they all follow. Here are 6 trends compiled by the National Association of Realtors that are on the cutting edge of what today’s buyer wants.
Private space
Baby boomers, empty nesters, and Gen Yers are showing a preference for homes that have more private outdoor spaces, straying from the traditional "public" backyard, according to surveys. One way some builders are fulfilling this desire is by positioning the home's architecture strategically around the outdoor space to enclose it more and allow it to be more open to the interior living spaces. They also are creating more covered outdoor spaces.
The "Super Kitchen"
Besides being a place for cooking, the kitchen is also the entertainment/conversation area in a home. Open-kitchen layouts have continued to grow in popularity, putting kitchens more front-and-center and visibly exposed to other areas of the house. Kitchen islands are offering extra seating and prep space while larger pantries are offering greater storage. "As the hub, it becomes a consumer's dream to design these elements together with function, practicality, and flair," the designers say.
Bigger Media Hubs
More home owners are looking for a place for their large flat-screen television. Larger television sizes are prompting more builders to realize the need for greater wall space to hang the televisions and larger entertainment rooms to accommodate more seating.
Larger Garage Spaces
If home owners had their way, garages wouldn't be just for parking the cars. More home owners want spaces for hobbies and storage, and builders are taking notice by creating larger garages for multi-use purposes.
Home Offices
An office and den space is becoming a bigger desire among home buyers, and the location of it in the home is becoming increasingly important. Placing the home office off the entry is no longer considered the most practical location for it, but builders are experimenting with moving it closer to the "living" area, such as off the kitchen or the family room.
Two Homes in One
As multigenerational living gains popularity, builders are responding by carving out more separate spaces for several generations to live together. For example, some builders are offering semi-independent suites with separate entries, bathrooms, and kitchenettes.
If you incorporate these trends into your home projects or major home remodel, you are sure to get more value when it’s time to sell. Remember, the best way to increase home value is to give buyers exactly what they want.
Source: Realtor Magazine, September 2014