October 13th, 2016
In a recent survey, home buyers believe now is a good time to buy and are trending towards traditional rather than modern designs. Over half of these buyers are over the age of 50 and many are the head of multi-generational households.
The survey, sponsored by Electrolux, was conducted by John Burns Real Estate Consulting, LLC, an Irvine, CA-based firm that provides research and consulting services to the housing industry. Taken nationwide, this survey asked 22,000 new home shoppers of their expectations, fears, motivations, attitudes, products, brands and design preferences. Demographically the home buyers were split into four groups. The “Innovator” group (aged 57-66) were the largest group of shoppers, followed by the “Balancers” (aged 37-46) and the “Equalers” (aged 47-56). An interesting finding was the “Sharers” (aged 27-36) group were more likely to be looking for smaller homes. This is a significant survey as it indicates growing consumer confidence and an improving economy.
The need for remodeling, building and design services is also on the rise a researchers noted that some 16.5 million U.S. households – 14% of the total – have two adjacent adult generations living together, while another 4.6 million households (4% of the total) have at least three generations under the same roof. So, both building and re-purposing spaces have becoming an increasingly more important need.
Here are a few of the specific key findings in terms of buyers preferences in 2016.
- Buyers look to brands for specific products, especially in the kitchen, followed by the bath.
- 46% of survey respondents are still looking for traditional kitchens, as opposed to 37% who prefer modern.
- A vast majority (85%) of respondents want an island in the kitchen, while 50% want an extended prep area, 82% want a walk-in pantry, 30% want a butler’s pantry, 25% desire wine storage, and 33% want a wet bar.
- Espresso machines, towel warmers and soaking tubs are all popular for master baths.
- Java is the most popular cabinet color for baths, with white second in popularity.
- Almost half of survey respondents (48%) prefer larger showers with no tub, while 52% still want a shower and tub.
- Integrating outdoor spaces into interiors is becoming more popular.
- Time-saving technology “is a must.”
See more information on this survey at Kitchen and Bath Design News.