Home Building and Remodeling Trends

A Windermere Distinctive Homes and Land Newsletter

Whether you’re goal is to buy a home, remodel your existing home, or simply improve your home for resale in the Tucson real estate market, it’s good to be on top of the latest developments and trends in national real estate. What’s hot in homes today? Here are a few of the newest trends that are changing the way we live.

Quality Over Quantity

While new homes in general are slightly larger than they were five years ago, builders are reporting that a growing number of homeowners are trading more square footage for higher-quality finishes and amenities. The enormous success of the book The Not So Big House gave a name to the movement. However, the desires of homebuyers have really fueled the trend. Given the choice between a bigger house with fewer amenities, or a smaller house with higher-quality amenities, 63% of the homeowners surveyed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) opted for the latter.

The trend appears to cross both age and income boundaries. An Urban Land Institute study of first-time homebuyers in their 20s indicates that Generation Y buyers will gladly sacrifice space for higher-end materials and construction. On the other end of the spectrum, the assumption that luxury home buyers only want very large homes is also being challenged. Real estate research firm Permar Inc. reports that there is a strong demand for “small, high-priced homes that are very well appointed.”

The way we utilize the space in our homes is changing, too. While upscale homeowners still want a living room, in moderately priced homes, the living room has often morphed into a study or extension of the kitchen/entertainment space. According to the NAHB, about a third of potential homebuyers say they are willing to buy a home with no living room. As people continue to spend more time “nesting,” the home is becoming a luxury refuge. This includes the creation of “sanctuary spaces,” such as small yoga rooms or reading alcoves, throughout the home.

Going Modular

A flood of interest on the part of hip young architects has transformed the design of modular construction. The latest modular homes look like conventionally built structures, often with a cutting-edge modern style. Features such as fireplaces, French doors, and decks are all being incorporated.

Why go modular? Because these homes are built at a factory and then erected on the site by cranes, they can be put together much more quickly than site-built homes. Carpet and other flooring are done at the factory, along with the trim and paint. Most modular homes are move-in ready a mere eight to ten weeks after they’re ordered, about half the time it takes to construct a home on-site. Since the modules need to be strengthened for transport and assembly, the quality of these homes is high. The cost per square foot is usually quite a bit lower than standard construction as well. And because they are truly modular, most homes can be expanded and/or modified as the needs of the home owner change. (Still not convinced? Check out www.glidehouse.com to see an award-winning “green” modular home design.)

Outdoor Oasis

As homes continue to serve as entertainment space and sanctuary, the lines between indoor and outdoor living continue to blur. Lots today are smaller, so even in small yards the outside is being transformed into an extension of interior living space. French doors and large sliding-glass panels help inside rooms flow into patio, deck, and balcony entertainment spaces. Elaborate outdoor kitchens are being built for year-round use. The use of breakthrough fabrics and other materials makes the newest outdoor furniture and floor coverings almost indistinguishable from their indoor counterparts.

How important are these spaces? According to an NAHB survey of home- buyers, an outdoor living space such as a deck or patio is a “must have.” If you build a deck, the average return on your investment is about 75%. Naturally, this varies widely by area. In hot, arid regions, the return may be only 26%. However, in areas such as San Diego, where people entertain outside year-round, you’ll recoup 156 percent on your investment.

Universal Design

“Aging in place” — designing a home to make it safer and more accessible as the owners grow older — is a trend boosted by baby boomers. Between 2000 and 2030, 82 million people will turn 65 years old, and those over 85 will become the fastest-growing segment of our population. As we age, our needs change. However, this trend doesn’t just benefit seniors. Universal design refers to people-friendly design that makes a home more comfortable for everyone, so young homeowners can enjoy these features today, and know that they will add value and appeal to their home when it comes time to sell. Whether you’re remodeling or looking at purchasing a new home, here are some universal design elements you may want to consider.

Hardware and fixtures — Sleek levered door and faucet handles are easier to use for those with arthritis. They’re also great if you’re trying to open the door with a sack of groceries in your arms. Grab bars for showers and baths are helpful for everyone, not just seniors, and many companies make them in stylish designs that match towel racks and other fixtures.

Flooring — Non-skid wood or tile flooring and slip-proof stair treads make your house safer, especially if you have kids.

Bed and bath — Have at least one bedroom and bathroom on the first floor to make it easier for those who have trouble climbing stairs.

Doors, entries, and hallways — Wider doors and hallways make your home more accessible, whether someone is using a wheelchair or moving in a new couch. Also, you might wish to consider creating at least one entry to your home that doesn’t have any steps. Again, this is necessary for persons with certain disabilities, but it is also great when moving in large items. Also, it's really a popular amenity if a family member sustains an injury that puts them on crutches, in a wheelchair, or impairs their breathing.

The New Urbanism

Empty-nesters and young professionals without kids are moving back to the cities in increasing numbers, seeking a lifestyle where amenities and work are within walking distance. The result is a record-breaking boom for in-city condo sales, especially in areas of the West, such as Tucson. Last year in Seattle, condominium sales accounted for 25% of residential sales. San Diego County condo sales exceeded those of detached homes. Los Angeles County is expected to follow suit this year.

Second Home Surge

Investment properties and second homes account for more than one-third of all residential transactions. A record 2.82 million second homes were sold last year, and 2005 is shaping up to break that record yet again.

Home Searching Goes Digital

According to the National Association of Realtors, 75% of all homebuyers use the Internet when searching for a home. Of those Internet searchers, 81% purchased their home through a real estate agent. The Web is a great source of information for home buyers and sellers. And it is a source which improves at an amazing pace.