It’s no secret that the pandemic we have been experiencing over the last six months has changed the way we do almost everything. Real estate is no exception, COVID-19 has altered not only where people are looking to buy properties, but also the criteria of what makes a home highly coveted. Here are several home features that have become popular amongst homebuyers this year.
Backyard Space
Backyards have always been a stand-out feature in homes, but now they have become increasingly more popular over the past year. Not only are people starting to look to the suburbs to buy their homes, they are prioritizing a spacious backyard in the home search, as well. Buyers are also looking to buy land at rates that have not been seen in over fifteen years. According to the New York Times, in Greenwich Connecticut, “about fifty houses had sold on lots of two acres or more as of mid-June, compared with forty at the same time last year, according to Mark Pruner, an agent with Berkshire Hathaway.”
Office Area
Another home feature buyers are highly interested in is an elevated office space. The classic office space located in the spare bedroom that includes just a desk and computer is now outdated. Home buyers are now searching for sound proof rooms designed for Zoom calls and a more permanent work-from-home office space that allows homeowners to focus on their work.
Homeschool Spaces
With a large number of schools all across the nation offering online schooling for kids, home buyers are now looking for designated spaces to accommodate. Parents want a space where the child feels like they are at school with limited distractions and a clear separation of when they are at home vs. school.
The Luxury Market
Eddie Shapiro at the New York Times states that “The largest increase in home-buying demand is in that luxury sector.” Inventory is low all around the country, people are wanting to live in a home that leaves no yearning for the outside world. They are looking for homes that have movie rooms, basketball courts, large kitchens, libraries, etc. Even here in Houston, HAR reports that the luxury market jumped 41.7% up from last year.
Nan and Company Properties / Christie’s International Real Estate has homes all throughout the greater Houston area. Whether you are looking to live in the suburbs, downtown, or in the middle of nowhere, we have something for you. Contact us today if you are looking to buy or sell!