Today is February 20, 2014: My Birthday! As such, due to a little bit of sentimental reminiscing, I thought I'd take a look back to the year of 1970 and see what was "average" about the American Dream Home at that time.
According to the National Association of Home Builders, the average home size in 1970 was a mere 1,400 square feet (this was up from 958 square feet in the 1950s--and many of those homes housed large families!). Most homes built in 1970 had an average of 1.5 bathrooms (contrasted with the average 2.5 or more today). However, the average bathroom size was much smaller. Bathrooms were not viewed as "me rooms" with granite, whirlpool tubs, dual sinks and custom cabinetry. They were utilitarian--they served their purpose (and we all know what the purpose of a bathroom is). As such, the way the average American visualizes and uses a bathroom has changed greatly in 44 years. We've endeavored to create a spa-like atmosphere in the bathrooms in our homes today.
According to the US Census Bureau, homes built today are also more likely to have more living rooms with a separate family/great room (two places for the family to gather), dens (and we sometimes call these "media rooms"---something unheard of in 1970), recreation rooms, and separate laundry/utility rooms than any home built in the 1970s. How often do we see washers and dryers in basements anymore? Not very often. Yet in 1970, the basement washer and dryer (and not in a separate "laundry room") were extremely common.
Carpet was a big deal in 1970! The carpet boom began in the 1950s, as carpets represented warmth, comfort and convenience. And by 1970, popular carpet colors included lime green, burnt orange and purple SHAG. Yeah, baby!!
The median price of a US home 1970 was $23,500.00, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. What is the median price of a home in your community in 2014?
Needless to say, our idea of the American dream home has changed greatly in the past forty-four years. As I'm writing this, I'm looking at my microwave (virtually unheard of in 1970) and dishwasher (a luxury in 1970). Homes in 1970 did not feature instant hot water taps for pasta, built-in Kuerig coffee makers, and the verdict is out on refrigerators with ice machines (I asked my mother. She can't remember). Stainless steel appliances were for food processing plants and restaurant kitchens, NOT your average household.
We still have homes from the year 1970 for sale in virtually every market in the United States, and most of those homes have undergone dramatic face lifts, additions and changes over time.
If you are looking for your Door County dream home, you likely have something much different in mind than the average home that was built 44 years ago. Luckily, we have inventory from every year since approximately 1900. We have access to homes in all shapes and sizes, with all different levels of finish throughout the Door Peninsula.
If you can find a pristine 1970s home, you may be in for a pleasant surprise, as with our waterfront home listing at 1320 Garrett Bay Road in Ellison Bay, Wisconsin.
This home was designed by a noted local engineer, and built by extremely competent builders. As such, while it's dated (it was built in the mid-70s), it would be an extremely easy remodel--and has fantastic shorefront, too. 
We've made your 2014 Door County dream home search easier than ever. Check here to get more information on Door County real estate for sale.. Additionally, if you're looking to purchase a home, you can receive our FREE report on the top ten mistakes home buyers make when purchasing property in Door County. This is a great way to discuss property with us prior to viewing homes, condominiums or vacant land in Door County.
Your Door County Dream Home Search: 1970 vs. 2014. Times have changed, but the love affair with Door County properties has not. Check here to search the entire Door County MLS via MaryKay Shumway and Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group. You can search for homes in all price points and of all ages and sizes, in all Door County locations. We'd be happy to assist you in finding your Door County dream home in 2014.
Just don't be disappointed if we can't find a Door County dream home with shag carpeting. You may have to install that yourself.
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