New Homes Month in April is a great time to think about what you want in your next new home. We’ve all seen a stunning hillside mansion and dreamed of what it would be like to raise our families there. Or, we’ve envied the amazing renovation makeovers depicted on television shows that give the homeowners a sense of pride and accomplishment. But how does your dream home compare to what home buyers across the country are looking for in their new home?
A recent study from the National Association of Homes Builders, What Home Buyers Really Want, shared the results of a survey of the preferences of thousands of home buyers. On average, home buyers are looking for a home that is 17 percent larger than their current home, a median of 2,226 square feet. But, likely as a result of the ongoing challenges of the economic downturn, that size is 13 percent smaller than the average size of homes started in 2012.
The layout of the home is more important than the location to most buyers. Living space and the number of rooms were ranked the most influential characteristics by 65 percent of buyers, while only 33 percent ranked proximity to locations they need to go as a top priority. A sense of open space continues to be popular, with about three-quarters of home buyers wanting a kitchen that is open to the family room, and nearly two-thirds looking for ceilings on the first floor that are 9 feet or higher.
Some of the most desired features in a home involve saving energy. Energy Star-rated appliances were rated as essential or desirable by 94 percent of respondents, and 91 percent wanted an Energy Star rating for the whole home. In fact, nine out of 10 buyers would rather buy a home with energy-efficient features and permanently lower utility bills than one without those features that costs 2 percent to 3 percent less.
Convenient organization and storage is another home buyer favorite. More than 80 percent of the respondents said they wanted walk-in pantries and pull-out shelves in the kitchen, a laundry room and storage in the garage.
The latest technology is also important. While only 15 percent of homeowners currently have a wireless home security system, 50 percent want one. Similar gaps in “have” versus “want” occur with security cameras, lighting control, wireless audio systems and multi-zone HVACs (heating, ventilation and air conditioning).
The most unwanted home features include elevators, a location in a golf course, high density or gated community and having only a shower stall and no tub in the master bath.
So whether you’re planning or dreaming about what your next new home will look like, or you’re making renovations to your current home so that it will appeal to its next owner,, keep these home buyer preferences in mind.
Contact info@biahawaii.org to learn about the latest features available in new homes in Hawaii.
Karen Nakamura is CEO of the Building Industry Association of Hawaii.