New Home Sales: Small is The New Big

Gone are the days of the McMansions. At one time Americans were trending toward large homes filled with soaring ceilings, rooms for every occasion, thousands of square feet and skyscraper like windows. As the housing industry changes, so too do the demands of buyers. In today's market conditions, economy is the key. Builders are building smarter, not larger. Money is saved when clever builders take the time to analyze the space and make full use of it verses adding superfluous square footage along with higher prices. Larger houses sit on more land, and use more materials to build. This is a double whammy on the pocketbook. According to the National Association of Home Builders, the average home in the US measures out at about 2390 square feet. This number is expected to drop further to 2150 square feet by 2013. With efficient space planning, multiuse rooms, the use of energy saving materials, and the downsizing of the home, builders are providing homes that are more budget friendly while still providing ease of livability. The trend toward downsizing and one-story homes can be attributed to the aging baby boomer population. Living on one level, or in easier to maintain townhomes and condos allow the older generation more freedom and escape from costly house payments, pesky stairs, high maintenance requirements, and create a more convenient over all living experience. Even today's designs are trending more toward smaller homes. Furniture is starting to scale down in size, decorating shows and magazines are focusing on small spaces, and space saving ideas are popping up all over. Stay tuned for some great multipurpose decorating tips for small spaces. Space planning doesn't mean losing any luxury or details that makes your house a home. Image source: ©PhotoXpress.com