Amenities Can Make the Difference in a New Home

New-home buyers and homeowners who are remodeling tend to focus mostly on kitchens and bathrooms--a fact that builders should recognize in their design and marketing techniques, according to Mary Jo Peterson. A design consultant, Peterson recently offered some growing trends in kitchen and bathroom design at the Remodelers Show in Philadelphia. In the kitchen, she noted, the biggest focus today is on light, appliances, and specific built-in features. In particular, appliances must look professional and state-of-the-art, while also being functional and flexible. The appliances must also be less noisy, time-saving, and provide better water and food quality. Regarding specific building materials, molding and trim are used more in kitchens, said Peterson; and counters can be laminate or mixed with laminate and wood or stone. Vinyl flooring is still the most frequent choice, and kitchen lighting involves maximizing the amount of natural light. In the bathroom, Peterson pointed out that today's homebuyers and remodelers are looking for separate tubs and showers, two lavatories, vanity sinks, and makeup centers. There is also a movement to provide more furniture-like features in bathrooms.

Reprinted with permisssion from NAR News, Information Inc.