What do 2022 home buyers want? “Affordability is the leading story in 2022, followed by space.”
According to a recent Zonda survey, homebuyers, particularly first-time buyers, still want large kitchens, designated offices, and outdoor spaces to enjoy in 2022. However, many people will have to adjust their financial expectations. The median price of a single-family home increased to $309,700 in 2020, according to the National Association of Realtors, while the average cost of a new construction home was even higher at $373,000.
With home prices rising, many buyers will be looking for ways to stretch their budgets in order to get the features they desire. For example, instead of purchasing a brand new home, some people may choose to purchase an existing home and renovate it to meet their needs.
What Home Buyers Want in 2022
As we move into 2022, affordability will continue to be the leading story for home buyers. However, that doesn’t mean that people are willing to sacrifice space in order to save money. Here are some of the top features that home buyers are looking for in the coming year:
Large Kitchens: A big kitchen has always been a popular feature among home buyers. In fact, 28% of respondents to the Zonda survey said that a large kitchen was their number one priority when looking for a new home. With more people working from home these days, having a designated space for work and leisure is more important than ever.
Designated Office Space: In recent years there has been a trend towards open concept living areas. However, with more people working from home, that trend may be reversing itself. Home buyers are now looking for homes that have a separate room that can be used as an office space. This provides them with a quiet place to work without the distractions of family members or pets.
Outdoor Space: Outdoor living areas such as decks and patios are also becoming more popular as people look for ways to expand their living space without sacrificing affordability. These types of spaces provide homeowners with a place to relax and entertain guests outside of the house.
If you’re thinking about buying a new home in 2022, it’s important to keep affordability in mind. However, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on features or space. There are plenty of ways to stretch your budget so that you can get the features you desire without breaking the bank. Talk to your real estate agent about your options and start planning your dream home today!
