April 16, 2009 | New Homes: Better Than Ever

As the unsustainably hot housing market has slowed down, buyers are seeking answers to lots of questions about how to find the right home. While the old saying about the three most important attributes being “location, location and location” still has some truth to it, today’s consumers are more savvy and more discerning. Location is only part of the equation: It’s also about conveniences and amenities.

And for conveniences and amenities, it’s hard to beat a new home. Today, new homes are safer, more efficient, and more packed with popular features than ever.

Safety. Technological advances mean that today’s homes are safer, because new homes take advantage of breakthroughs in building science. Many homes now have advanced electrical systems, hardwired smoke detectors, and fire-resistant construction details. Windows in patio doors and near stairways have tempered glass, which makes them less likely to cause injury if they break.

Efficiency. Home builders also have a larger array of products and materials to enable them to make a house more energy-efficient. Many home builders participate in programs like ENERGYSTAR®, which promotes energy-efficient appliances. Green building is the hottest new building trend. Builders are placing homes to take the best advantage of sunlight and shade, and using innovative products like solar shingles (not just solar roof panels), light-conserving windows, and insulation made from recycled materials.

Lifestyle. New home floor plans reflect what today’s home buyer wants: larger kitchens for family gatherings, ample storage space, and more bathrooms. Consumers prefer greater ceiling heights, more—and bigger—closets, walk-in showers with multiple heads, three-car garages, and outdoor entertainment spaces with fireplaces and grills.

In fact, that’s a big reason why people seek new homes. Consumers want value, but they also want choices. They want to pick their carpet colors, their cabinet styles, their light fixtures and other design elements that help make a house their home.

The decision to buy a home is a personal one. The housing market has historically gone through ups and downs, and will likely continue to do so. Buyers should focus on finding a home that’s right for them, not whether economic factors make it a good time to buy.

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