So you're in the market for a new home and decide it's time to take the plunge. You do your homework, compare mortgage rates, read up on what to seek in a quality builder and head out to tour some communities. But have you given enough thought to your own individual style and tastes? Today's home is so much more than a functional area where we eat, sleep and store our clothes. Today's home is a gathering place, a safe haven and an escape from the stresses of busy schedules. And that's why it should look and feel like a reflection of you.
Personalization and expression of individuality is more important than ever before, keeping home builders searching for more ways to cater to the needs of individual buyers. This has become the driving force behind the changing face of the suburban community.
To many, the image that comes to mind of a master-planned community is one of similar brick homes one right after anther, with little variation or change in style. A while ago, this may have been the case, but today's communities are changing. The "cookie cutter" image is becoming a myth among many builders and many planned suburban communities.
When you glance down the street in many of today's coming soon communities, you will see a variety of exteriors including brick, siding, stucco and shake shingle. Consumers want a home that is an expression of themselves, yet still want to enjoy the amenities of a planned community. Home builders have responded to this demand inside the homes quite well with thousands of options to personalize a home through lighting, paint colors, fixtures and other features. Taking their response one step further, some builders will soon begin creating communities with increased exterior variety as well. Buyers can choose the materials for the outside of their home that suit the look they desire-without being tied to a particular style. This creates more of a "custom" look and feel to the streetscape.
Though the concept of varying home exteriors is not entirely new, it's the first time that the concept is being taken to this level in production housing and in different price points. First time homebuyers won't have to settle for a cookie cutter home just like their neighbor's home. Buyers at all price points will be able to enjoy the individuality and variety of this concept.
Not only does this type of diversified home exterior create a sense of individuality and appeal to a broader number of buyers, but it also creates timelessness within the community. This, in turn, helps the appreciation and resale value of the homes. Homes will look as good tomorrow as they do today.
Though the concept isn't for everyone, many people desire a community filled with strong and sturdy brick homes and the neo-traditional friendliness of Hardiplank siding homes and front porches. Providing buyers the opportunity to enjoy the amenities of a planned community alongside the increased opportunities to personalize their home is a win-win for buyers, builders and developers.