WASHINGTON — Despite the “open concept” design touted by cable TV’s home design shows as a must-have, buyers still want a traditional separate dining room. But depending on the buyers, some want that space for more than just a place to eat.
And for sellers, a lot of them have some serious updating to do before going on the market.
Homebuilder Taylor Morrison says about 70 percent of prospective homebuyers have outdated design features in their current homes. Some, seriously outdated.
Its survey said the six most common culprits for remodel-worthy features include the following:
- Linoleum floors (40 percent);
- Popcorn ceilings (29 percent);
- Wood paneling (28 percent);
- Ceramic tile countertops (28 percent)
- Shag carpeting (19 percent) (believe it or not);
- Dreaded avocado green appliances (8 percent).
Some potential existing homebuyers will overlook outdated features, but most, in the current turnkey buyer’s market, will not.
Taylor Morrison also used its research, conducted on its behalf by Wakefield Research, to keep on top of the features new homebuyers want.
And yes, a dining room remains at the top of the list.
“We’re finding that 80 percent of boomers still want that space with an intended purpose of using it as a dining room,” Eric Heuser at Taylor Morrison told WTOP.
“Millennials still want that space. That’s the important part. They still want that floor plan, but they’re using it in different ways. Such things as an office, or a party room, or a playroom for kids, or a craft room. The key element is providing that flexibility,” he said.
Built in technology and connectivity also is high on the list for new homebuyers, regardless of age. And for builders, it’s not a significant added cost.
“USB charging ports are important, and they’re inexpensive,” Heuser said.
“We find it important not to typecast buyers. We’re seeing good use across all age groups. It’s really connectivity, so being able to go from room to room in your home and do what you want to do, whether it’s connecting with grandkids or doing work.”
But things, such as better energy efficiency, floor plans that can be personalized and easier maintenance are still higher on the list than the latest technology.
Younger new homebuyers also put more emphasis than older new homebuyers on extras, such as a whirlpool tub, a sun room, a home theater and a wine refrigerator or cellar.
Older new homebuyers, according to Taylor Morrison research that included focus groups, surveys and social media, are more interested in more storage, a supersized shower, and an extra room that can serve as both office and an additional guest room.
Taylor Morrison’s research, based on surveys of 1,000 buyers who have purchased a home in the last three years or who are likely to within the next three years, also points to bolder colors.
Nearly three in five younger buyers want the interior walls of their homes painted with darker, rich colors, compared to 49 percent of their older counterparts.
