Is Small Beautiful?

Does the fact that the median size of a new home being built is smaller suggest that Americans want greater simplicity in their living conditions, or does it suggest a need to buy a less expensive home? Are there lasting trends here, or will home sizes become larger again when the economy improves? And what does this mean to the marketing and selling of your home? In a 2007 survey, the National Association of Home Builders found that 42% of home buyers wanted a bigger home with fewer amenities, but 58% wanted a smaller house with “high quality products and amenities.” The same question in a 2000 survey found that 51% wanted the bigger home with fewer amenities. But this doesn’t necessarily mean our nation’s housing tastes are changing, even as we pay more attention to energy bills and efficient home design. There is an identifiable downsizing trend today, attributable in part to several trends among homeowners and home buyers. Baby boomers (those born between 1944 and 1964) expect to live longer and more independently, and they seek more manageable (that is, smaller) homes that provide the amenities they want. Housing sales and trends are regional, what is selling in Atlanta may not sell in San Diego. First time home buyers have changed the flavor of the market too. I personally think small is beautiful because I don't have to clean the bigger house, but hey, that's just me. Whether, smaller or bigger may be a personal preference the trend is definitely towards smaller more affordable homes.