There is finally some "official" validation that electronic amenities are the most desirable features that U.S. consumers want in their homes.
The findings of a joint study of consumers conducted by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Better Homes & Gardens magazine reveal that consumers want "media-centric family gathering rooms" or "Wii-sized" rooms in their homes.
The study results were unveiled at the International Builders Show in Las Vegas, according to an article in Builder Magazine.
In addition to the media room, 91 percent of consumers want energy efficient HVAC -- something that integrators can provide via programmable thermostats.
Moreover, 91 percent of consumers said they would rather buy an energy-efficient home vs. a cheaper home.
Other top desirable features are:
- 71 percent of buyers said a home office was "desirable" or "essential." The article says that 60 percent of consumers want a home office, and two-thirds of those want a dedicated office.
- Smaller homes
- More storage
- Front porches
Specifically, the research shows that homeowners will pay $6,000 more for a home in order to save $1,000 per year on utility costs.
Please have your builders take note of that statement!