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Design matters both to GEN Xers and Baby Boomers when it comes to buying homes - Janice Roosevelt, Keller Williams, PA & DE

By
Real Estate Agent with Keller Williams Brandywine Valley PARS273421 & De Lic.

Who will "right size"  the housing recovery? Gen X, those between 31 and 45 say a report for the National ASsociatio of Home Builders (www.nahb.org). They currently represent 32% of the  potential home buying market. Not only do GEN Xers  think it's a good time to leap off the fence, they want particular design features.

This  contrasts Baby Boomers, many of whom are waiting things out a few more years, waiting to retire and are looking to downsize. Yet, they too, are particular about what they want in design.

I can personally attest to that as I am working with two sets of first-time GEN xers and they are looking for separate shower and tub, fireplaces, finished basements, and a patch of green to call their own, even if it's a townhome.

"Green  grass, a place for the little ones play," commented, Heather, one of the buyers with whom I'm working.

GEN -xers expect some green features like energy efficient HVACS and windows . Informal spaces such a great room vs separate Living and Dining Rooms sing to them as well. 

A way to link indoor and outdoor spaces to make a smaller home feel large is important   Fireplaces, separate tub and shower, and dark wood  cabinets are amenities this group is ready to pay extra for.

Baby Boomers are more likely to want a "walk to" kind of neighborhood.  Boomers, too, want to downsize with quality details. A great kitchen and bathrooms are important.  GEN Xers  favor suburbia not to far from work or in the city.  jroosevelt@kw.com

Comments(2)

Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Interesting observations. We are hearing many say that they opt for a simpler life style and want to downsize as part of that process.

 Blooming for home buyers!

Apr 21, 2011 04:54 AM
Janice Roosevelt
Keller Williams Brandywine Valley - West Chester, PA
OICP ABR, ePRO,Ecobroker

Simpler is better in my book. Thanks for stopping by Roy!

Apr 21, 2011 07:27 AM