A trend I’ve noticed with buyers that appears to be gaining momentum over the past few years is that

while they're looking for smaller houses (“right sizing” is the term most often heard as opposed to
“downsizing”) they are also beginning to focus more and more on ‘lifestyle’ choices such as outdoor
living spaces, higher-end interior design elements, and other upgraded amenities. 

More and more clients are also asking how and where they can get the biggest bang for their investment

dollar when remodeling an existing home. I tell them 1) the kitchen, 2) the master bath and now,

3) by adding or improving the outdoor living area. Covered outdoor living spaces with exterior/all

weather ceiling fans, outdoor fireplaces, built-in kitchens and/or grilling areas can all add a very new

and ‘updated’ feel to your home. Water features such as a well placed waterfall or coy pond can add

quiet ambiance to any backyard area. And, no, we’re not talking about adding a pool here. 

Over the last few years builders both locally and nationally have also seen this trend towards smaller

homes. The National Association of Builders (NAHB) reports that 58% of home buyers would rather

have a smaller home with higher-end quality materials and products. Smaller homes also come with

lower property taxes, lower utility bills, and lower home owner’s insurance costs. All good things in

today’s economy. Up until 2009, the average size of a home built in the United States had increased for

27 straight years!

As with anything though, there are trade-offs. Smaller homes will generally have smaller rooms such

as closets and bathrooms so investing up front in upgraded features and amenities can be critical when

it does come time to sell and you’re looking to differentiate your property from other properties that

will also be on the market at the same time. It’s important to note that although buyers are looking for

smaller homes, the average number of bedrooms and bathrooms in homes has showed little change.

And, the trend doesn’t appear to be showing up in kitchen sizes – home buyers still strongly prefer

larger kitchens over smaller ones. 

Whether or not, or for how long this trend continues is an open question, but it’s clear that more and

more home buyers are willing to consider the option of a smaller home than in the past.