Smaller is Bigger!

Due to the aging population in the USA, home buyers over 55 are looking to down size to smaller but more efficient homes. According to Stephen Melman, spokesman for the National Association of Home Builders in Washington, D.C., “Retirees want smaller homes, but they also want houses to be smarter, in terms of energy efficiency and the usage of space.”

In Florida, real estate professional have been very successful in dealing with these needs for many years. Florida has always been a preferred destination for retirees and vacationers. Today, many local builders continue to head the trend towards smaller and greener homes. Builders are incorporating many energy and space efficient amenities into their new designs. Where open floor plan have been the norm for condos for the past decade in Florida, these designs have now crossed over to smaller single family homes. Open kitchens and great rooms are preferred by most buyer who are looking to buy smaller homes. This design makes smaller spaces look larger and works best when entertaining. Other important features are a main floor master bedroom and larger bathroom. Ample closet space is paramount and an attached car garages is usually on the list.

Due to mostly sunny and pleasant weather all year round, outdoor living is a big part of the Florida life style. Florida residents have enjoyed this life style by incorporating outdoor amenities such as open patios and summer kitchens to larger homes. These amenities are now becoming very popular for smaller homes as well.