As the homebuilding industry in Chattanooga and throughout the country celebrates New Homes Month in April, recent research shows that walk-in master bedroom closets, low-emissivity windows and laundry rooms are the most likely features found in new homes this year, based on a survey of single-family homebuilders.
The National Association of Home Builders asked builders about energy-efficient features that will most likely be in new homes in the coming year. At the top of the list was energy-efficient lighting, programmable thermostats and Energy Star appliances.
Energy-efficient or eco-friendly features not likely to be included in new homes, however, are cork flooring in main-level living areas, geothermal heat pumps and solar water heating and cooling.
The size and scale of new homes is trending smaller, surveyed builders said. Homebuyers desire smaller homes, not only in overall square footage but also the number of bedrooms and bathrooms.
While homebuyer preferences are trending smaller, open design concepts, such as great rooms and ceilings of 9 feet or more on the first floor, remain desirable.
When it comes to new home configuration trends, designers are including flexible spaces that increase functionality to laundry rooms. Hardwood flooring and wood finishes are included to add warmth and character both inside and outside the home. Another popular design feature trending in new homes is creating outdoor spaces that seamlessly integrate with indoor living.
There are many other benefits of owning a new home that might be less obvious but are often found to be just as valuable. Homeowners gain a strong sense of community by creating lasting friendships with neighbors. Some new home developments even host block parties to help neighbors get to know each other, though not in times of social distancing. Owning a new home also means having a clean slate to create a space that’s all your own.
To find a quality homebuilder in the Tri-state area, visit the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga at www.HBAGC.net.