The typical home purchased today has about 1,900 square feet, three bedrooms, and two bathrooms. A vast majority of buyers when surveyed said the size of their home isn’t nearly as important as the location, and a full 53% undertake at least some renovation within the first few months after moving in. In cities with increasing density like Charlotte, homes are getting smaller to accommodate more walkable infill neighborhoods.
That said, the number of buyers purchasing new construction and homes they specifically can avoid renovating is way up. With the number of millennials moving back home, seniors moving back in, and extended families choosing to cohabitate it’s no wonder organizational needs are at the forefront of buyer’s minds. What do home buyers want when it comes to organization in home design? Here are a few popular requests:
Custom Cabinetry and Inserts
Closet space and cabinet space are two of the most-requested items according to Realtors. Buyers want to imagine they’ll never run out of room for all their stuff, and a built-in system for organizing is a great way to keep things looking neat and tidy. From slim pull-out spice racks to rolling drawers on casters, the kitchen is a great place to implement hidden organizational features. Closets, too, benefit from built-in shoe racks, belt hooks, divided drawers, and pull-down upper storage.
Multi-Function Rooms Need Order
Builders today are looking to so-called “flex” spaces to fill the void between first-time homebuyers and last-time purchasers. A room that can serve as an office, a playroom, and/or a home gym is a great plus, but it needs definition (particularly in a model home or open house) to appeal to buyers. Modular cabinetry, half-walls, and wall plugs in hidden but functional spots are a good way to define these nebulous spaces in a way that appeals to a buyer’s Type-A side.
Mud Rooms are a Hot Ticket Item
The mud room is one of the biggest must-haves for buyers today. A dedicated space that can store shoes, sports equipment, pet supplies, and hanging jackets – and a bench to boot! – appeals to a buyer’s sense of order and cleanliness, particularly in a family-focused home. In some homes, mud rooms and laundry spaces are shared; in homes where the laundry is big enough, a folding table is a great use of extra space that also helps buyers see organization in their future.
Hidden Storage is a Smart Investment
So many spaces can easily be transformed into extra storage space which always appeals to buyers. A built-in breakfast area bench with hinges can open to store outdoor pillows; a wasted under-stair nook can become a great place to keep camping equipment or luggage. Whether it’s a recessed medicine cabinet in the bathroom or a fully-finished “hidey-hole” in a kids’ room creating extra play space, making use of every square inch of a home is the fastest way to a buyer’s heart.
When purchasing a home, organization is key to most buyers. No one wants to imagine living in disarray and when the pieces are already in place, buyers have an easier time imagining their belongings neatly displayed and stored. Organizational home design is a smart play for builders and current sellers alike.