It has been over a year since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in our country. The majority of Americans have adjusted to wearing masks and keeping a safe distance from one another.These precautionary measures have affected the real estate industry in a variety of ways, such as the home showing capabilities and homebuyer preferences. For instance, before 2021, open-concept floor plans were very popular; however, the pandemic has changed a lot of peoples' minds about their next home’s layout. More people are looking for homes that have dedicated quiet/work spaces because many people are working remotely as a result of the pandemic.
Another major home buying trend that many real estate professionals are noticing is that buyers are looking for more outdoor living space, as well as functionality around their property. Since many Americans have been cooped up inside their homes more so than ever, the desire for more larger front and back yards has increased. Not only are people in search of larger outdoor living space, but they are also looking for more functional places as well. In other words, the desire for constructions such as outdoor kitchens, seating areas, screen-in porches has been an interest of buyers probably more so than ever before. People who are designing a home build are looking to include outdoor living spaces that include outdoor kitchen stations for cooking prep as well as storage areas.
While it is unclear when the COVID-19 pandemic will come to end, it is clear that home buyer wish lists have been changed fairly dramatically. As we continue to monitor new real estate-related trends emerging in our country, we must take note how the pandemic continues to shape the real estate industry moving forward.
