What do buyers want in a home? Survey offers cluesCategory: Real Estate News | Permalink Published: Friday, April 09, 2010 Home buyers have a tendency to desire it all, especially in this time of affordablitiy, when prices and mortgage rates are low. However, this also is the time of frugality, a period of economic uncertainty when numerous people are not as worried about their next pay increase as they are about the next round of layoffs. So today's buyers are far more willing to do without "extras." The question is what to give up: Do you actually need a formal living room? A fifth bedroom would be lovely, but is it necessary? What about that view of a golf course? Several builders rely on surveys that examine soon-to-be buyers about their preferences to help answer these and other question marks. But buyer wannabes have yet to make any of the tough decisions. In a recent study of more than 22,000 owners who purchased their homes within the last nine years, sheds light on where buyers were willing to put their money and may possibly supply significant clues for builders, architects and current buyers. After all, if your predecessoys didn't opt for an outsized backyard patio equipped with a five-burner grill, maybe it's not as necessary as you think. The survey Avid Ratings of Madison, Wisconsin, found that current homeowners planned to be "more practical" the next time around. For example, a community clubhouse is "not a big deal anymore," Avid Chief Executive Paul Cardis said at the recent International Builders' Show in Las Vegas, where he detailed his findings on a panel with design experts. Health clubs that people end up using "maybe five times a year" can be eliminated, as can dog parks and gold courses --even 24-hour security. "no one said a swimming pool is a must, either," said Cardis, who has worked with more than 400 builders in the U.S. and Canada. A kid's park, however, is necessary, as are walking trails. Inside, large kitchens are still a must have, but formal dining rooms are not. Upstairs laundry rooms and home theaters aren't deal breakers either. Other Recent ArticlesCall Us Today!
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About This Page: Home Buyers have a tendency to desire it all, especially in this time of affordability, when prices and mortgage rates are low. However, this also is the time of frugality, a period of economic uncertainty, when numerous people are not as worried about their next pay increase as they are about the next round of layoffs. So today's bueyers are far more willing to do without extras.
