To a certain extent, the housing market can give us a clue as to what most Americans deem particularly important. If we look at sales trends in different time periods, we notice that houses with certain qualities “fly off the shelves,” so to speak; finding that common denominator tells us both what is deemed particularly important at that point in time, and how to make non- conforming homes more marketable. It is not a far stretch to say that the period of time that COVID has ravaged our country represents a unique point in time for the housing market.
Looking at the trends, we continuously see certain aspects of homes that make them more sellable. Today, we will discuss those trends.
It should come as no surprise to professionals across the board, that there is a premium on homes with rooms that can serve as a “Zoom Office.” Given that remote work is a trend that is
unlikely to disappear when the pandemic does, it stands to reason that a “Zoom Office” wont
either. What this really means is that you need a room that is further away from the high-traffic
areas of your home; it is a room you wouldn’t define as a bedroom (even though it could be).
Sellers are beginning to list “zoom rooms” as a part of a home’s features, and it would be prudent to do that yourself.
Similarly unsurprising is the emphasis placed on a comfortable home design; we’re talking open floor plans and other aesthetic elements that make a home feel less cramped. Moreover, home design décor is trending towards a comfy bed-and-bath vibe; indoor herb gardens, candles, houseplants, and throw pillows are doing quite well. Notably, a dedicated outdoor hang-out spot is seeing a lot of interest; consider adding something like this to your home, and it is likely to pay for itself.
Finally, backyards are becoming a must-have in the Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Encino, and Tarzana areas; many buyers are purchasing smaller homes in order to get a backyard that
allows them to do more while stuck at home.
The major takeaway is that people are looking for a home that won’t feel oppressive if they are stuck there for long periods of time. An office that doesn’t feel like a prison, a space to sit and relax with friends outside, and a large backyard for any activities you can imagine, are drawing potential buyers away from houses that were previously “better” suited to the market. It’s important to stay aware of trends, as being current translates to significant amounts of
money.
At the Chernov Team we understand that knowledge is power, and knowledge of housing trends is powerful knowledge indeed. At the Chernov Team we know that whoever comes to the table most prepared leaves with the most, and the Chernov Team always leaves the table with the most.