Most Likely Features on 2014 Homes

Features Most Likely to Show up in Typical Single-family Home in 2014

Knowing what your competition is up to is a must in any industry.  In residential construction, that includes having a clear picture of what other builders are putting in their new homes.  In December 2013, a nationwide survey asked builders about the likelihood that a number of features would be included in the typical single-family home they will build this year.

Based on ratings from 1 to 5, where 1=not at all likely and 5= very likely, builders reported the following as the most likely features to show up in the typical 2014 home:

• Walk-in closet in master bedroom
• Low-e windows
• Laundry room
• Great room

Also likely are a number of energy efficiency features:  Energy-star rated appliances and windows, a programmable thermostat, and insulation higher than required by code.  In the kitchen, a double sink, granite countertops, and a central island are highly likely to make the cut.  A few outdoor features are likely candidates as well: a front porch, outdoor lighting, and a patio.

In contrast, the two least likely features builders will include in their new homes this year are:

• Laminate countertops in the kitchen
• Outdoor kitchen (cooking, refrigeration, & sink)

Two-story spaces (family room and foyer) also seem to be unlikely features, as well as an outdoor fireplace, a sunroom, a media room, and a whirlpool in the master bathroom.

Plansource, Inc., www.plansonline.com, remains a portal of information for homebuilders and the homebuilding industry.

Reprinted from Builder Magazine

Tags: builders, construction, design, designer, homeplans, residential, trends