Top 10 Features Most Wanted by Homeowners Found in New Homes
A recent poll of shoppers in the real estate market found that new construction is the hands-down winner when it comes to delivering the top ten features most desired by homeowners. Today’s buyers are eco-savvy, organized, and looking for options that allow them to customize their living spaces. New construction provides the perfect opportunity to meet these needs—and many more!
- Open Floorplans and Flexible Living Spaces
Buyers today want higher ceilings, improved air flow, and large open areas such as great rooms that can be used in multiple ways. Many modern floorplans from today’s homebuilders—including Ernest Homes designs—offer incredible adaptability that fits every lifestyle.
- Pick a Size, Any Size…
Most homebuyers don’t want to overbuy or underbuy; they want a home that fits their family perfectly. New construction offers a wide range of floorplan sizes—from charming, efficient two-bedroom layouts to spacious 4+ bedroom homes designed for growing families.
- Making the Most of the Great Outdoors
Patios, sunrooms, and generously sized lots are making a major comeback! Buyers want spaces that extend their living areas outdoors. Builders of new homes are able to incorporate these features seamlessly into community designs.
- Upgraded Décor Choices
Most homebuilders now offer expanded design galleries where buyers can explore a wide variety of options—hardware, countertops, flooring, paint colors, lighting, and more. Selecting and installing these finishes during the build is often more efficient and cost-effective than retrofitting an older home. Explore the Ernest Homes Design Studio for inspiration.
- Modern Kitchens
Today’s homebuyers expect stainless steel appliances, stone and granite surfaces, high-end tile, and smart kitchen layouts. New construction provides all of this—along with modern electrical systems and the latest innovations in energy delivery.
- Community Amenities
Neighborhood amenities continue to be must-have features for families. Planned new-construction communities often include swimming pools, walking trails, playgrounds, clubhouses, fitness centers, reflection ponds, and more—built right into the community without extra cost.
- Energy Efficiency
The Home Energy Rating System, also known as a HERS Score, measures a home’s energy efficiency. The lower the score, the more efficient the home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, typical new construction is 30% more energy efficient than a comparable resale home. Improved insulation, better HVAC systems, and energy-efficient appliances contribute to these lower scores. Learn more at the HERS Index site.
- Closets and Storage
Today’s buyers crave storage—large closets, walk-in closets, dual owner’s closets, and custom shelving options. Older homes often lack these modern conveniences, making new construction a superior choice for organization and functionality.
- A Garage That Is Actually a Garage
Homebuyers want a minimum two-car garage with room for storage as well as vehicle protection. Many older homes don’t provide this, while most new homes are designed with flexible, spacious garages built for modern needs.
- A Laundry Room
A dedicated laundry room has become a top priority. Buyers no longer want appliances squeezed into closets or basements—they want a thoughtfully designed space with shelving, drying racks, and organization elements.
At Ernest Homes, we take our customers’ needs seriously. Our goal is always to provide the top-ranked amenities and the modern conveniences today’s homeowners expect. Call us at (912) 660-9673 or send us an email today! We’d love to give you a tour of our model homes, walk you through our design gallery, and help you explore our thoughtfully designed floorplans.
