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Compared to just a couple decades ago the amount of interest buyers (and sellers) take in the real estate process has blossomed into a multi-million dollar industry. With media, retail and of course technological trends continuously shaping the industry, it is no surprise that buyers (and sellers) are more savvy than ever when it comes to property-related transactions. So when the time arrives for buyers to begin searching for their new home, they are already armed with loads of advance information about what’s out there. Here are six top current trends that buyers are into these days, some which have been around for ages and others, seemingly new.
Updated Kitchens and Bathrooms
One of the first things many buyers look for is updated kitchens and bathrooms with plenty of space, modern cabinetry, lots of storage, granite counters and stainless steel or modern appliances. Savvy buyers of today not only want to be able to enjoy these amenities, they also know that later on down the line these features will add significant seller value to their home, making the purchase a solid investment.
Open Floor Plans
Closed off rooms that are scattered throughout the house are no longer in style. The more sought after choice is homes that feature large great rooms, with open spaces looking out into multiple rooms that have a clear view from one end of the space to the other. Huge vaulted ceilings, tray ceilings and other architectural details that add to the openness of the space are also important to buyers these days.
Larger Master Bedrooms with an En Suite
With the influx of HGTV shows depicting the latest available designs and styles out there, more and more buyers are seeking master bedrooms with an En suite rather than traditional community bathrooms just a few feet away from the master. Not only that, buyers want large open spaces within the attached bath, sometimes going as far as expecting double vanity sinks, garden tub and shower stalls plus plenty of storage room.
Use of Extra Space – Outdoors, Basement
Less is not more when it comes to space in a home and no buyer these days wants to see a potential home with underutilized space. One of the most promising uses of extra space is the basement, where finished basements are the hot trend to fulfill anything from work out room requirements to desires for a media room, a “man cave” or extra family space. Similarly, future homeowners are seeking more outdoor living space as well. Whether through enclosed patios, larger yards, fenced in and private play areas or decks; exterior space is an important consideration for almost everyone these days.
