Today's Model Homes Much Different From 5 Years Ago

Boyce Thompson of Builder Magazine says that the newer floor models from homebuilders purposely understate their amenities to create the perception of value.

1 minute read

June 4, 2010, 5:00 AM PDT

By Tim Halbur

Thompson says that the newer, smaller floor plans make much better use of space than the previous, McMansion-era homes.

He writes, "Builders today must focus very hard on how homes actually live. This starts with design value-engineering. Spaces that people use the most--family rooms, master bedrooms, laundry rooms, back porches--must receive the most attention. Places that people rarely use--living rooms, dining rooms, multiple courtyards--should be downplayed or eliminated, depending on the price point."

As we noted a year ago, builders are getting on the smaller home bandwagon, as new homes lost an average of 300 sq. ft.

FULL STORY: Creating a Different First Impression: Value

Thursday, June 3, 2010 in Builder Magazine

Housing United States Smaller Homes

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