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I was recently reading my newsletter for ABRs published by REBAC and they were identifying home buying trends.  In short, what buyers are looking for in today's market.  According to their data, buyers want fewer, smaller and less expensive homes, implications for home design, whole-house efficiency and master bedroom suites.

Fewer, smaller and less expensive: less expensive is a no-brainer.  Times are tough and the market is responding in our area.  There are new construction homes in our area from $104,900 (townhouse) to 2,095,000 (mansion) with the average price of $214,984.  National average in 2009 for a new home was $267,000.  For the lower prices, you are getting less square footage.  In our area, there is a trend for the builders to make large homes with less frills which allows them to sell for less $ per square foot.

Implications for home design: though we are downsizing, the homes don't have to feel smaller.  Designing homes with 9 foot ceilings on the first floor allows builders to place longer windows to let more natural light into the home giving an overall larger, open feel to the home.

Whole-House Efficiency: Floor plans with kitchen, eating areas and family rooms are open and connected to cater to the families constantly on the go and multi-tasking.  Storage elements such as laundry rooms and mini mud rooms are added to bring order to the living areas.  Efficiency is also desired in the home systems and appliances.  Low-E windows, programmable thermostats and insulated outside doors are also demanded by today's thrifty homebuyer. 

Master Bedroom Suite: I always look at homes I go to list with the thought in mind, "Two things sell homes, Kitchens and Master Suites."  This is a long time desirable item.  Large master bedrooms, walk in closets and bathrooms that have a separate shower and garden/jetted tub.  Who doesn't want to be pampered after a hard day's work?

Though I agree with these in general, when I walk into a home with a buyer and hear what they are looking for, it is not general like this list.  So, what are your most desired features in a home? Or what are the features that made you buy your current home?