Houses are getting smaller, according to data released last week by the National Association of Home Builders. The association said that the average size of a new home in 2009 was 2,480 square feet, down from 2,520 square feet in 2008. Despite smaller home sizes and tightening credits, there are still some features that are expected in new houses. Builders say the following are most likely to be standard in homes built in 2010:
Walk-in closets in the master bedroom.
Laundry rooms.
Insulated front doors.
Great rooms.
Energy-efficient windows.
Linen closets.
Programmable thermostats.
Energy-efficient appliances and lighting.
Separate shower and tub in master bathrooms.
Nine-foot ceilings on the first floor.
Source: MarketWatch, Steve Kerch (10/22/2010)
Building in our area seems to be in the higher price ranges and all these amenities are almost always included plus a more. We are just not seeing an increase in building or resale activity yet. I saw a report last night that suggested real estate as an industry you would not want to get into now! Thanks! Challenging markets are opportunities for those who can stick it out!
Blog with the Broker, Terry Jacobs 