Sponsored by PotlatchDeltic Real Estate/Chenal Properties | Guest writer Michelle Sanders
For those looking to buy a new home, eat-in kitchens, large closets, baths with double vanities, walk-in showers, and soaking tubs continue to be some of the most popular features. However, according to sales professionals with Chenal Properties, the real estate broker for PotlatchDeltic’s master planned Arkansas communities— Chenal Valley and Wildwood Place in Little Rock and Red Oak Ridge in Hot Springs—the COVID-19 pandemic is shaping new trends in home buying.
Currently, outdoor living spaces, home offices, and flexible floor plans that can accommodate multi-generation families are top of mind for those buying homes during this unique time. Read on to see how each of these amenities can help you make the most out of your time at home.
Outdoor spaces are more appealing than ever
As Chenal Properties continues to work with buyers, what does an inviting outdoor space look like for them? In west Little Rock, these outdoor areas are typically covered and may include a fireplace and or a built-in grill. They are spacious and can accommodate outdoor furniture and TVs, essentially adding another room to the home.
Outdoor areas for backyard gathering are also popular at Red Oak Ridge, where sales professional Judy Kelly notes that many retirees and empty-nesters want to have outdoor space for their kids and grandkids to use when they visit. And don’t forget the appeal of a bonus room upstairs, which can be used for storage, as a recreational room, or as an extra bedroom.
PotlatchDeltic has designed neighborhoods to include plentiful green space in the overall master plan of each community. Many of the neighborhoods in Chenal Valley enjoy green space. In fact, Falstone Court and Caurel Court, two of Chenal Valley’s newest neighborhoods, also include remarkable views of Pinnacle Mountain.
A home office is an everyday need for many people
While some companies are starting to bring workers back to the office, many workplace experts foresee that organizations will be more flexible with in-office hours going forward. While turning an extra bedroom into a home office can be a simple fix, more buyers are looking for other inviting areas in a house that can facilitate a pleasant work environment without losing a bedroom.
Characteristics of a great home office include a room with a lot of windows for natural light and an area of the house away from the hustle and bustle of everyday activities. Whatever the space, it’s smart to think about what you need before you buy or build your new home.
Flexibility for different generations is important
The pandemic has only heightened a trend we were already seeing: More adult children are living with their parents as they start their careers, and more older relatives are living in the same house as their kids and/or grandkids. Therefore, some buyers are looking for multigenerational floor plans with suites that offer privacy, separate entrances, and individual bathrooms and kitchens.
No matter your specific needs, the entire home should flow, so think about how your family will live in it—whether that means enjoying the beautiful outdoors Arkansas has to offer, transitioning to working from home, or providing space for larger families to gather together under one room.
About the author: Michelle Sanders is a Little Rock native and a 25-year real estate industry veteran. She is a Lifetime Member in the Little Rock Realtors® Association’s Million-Dollar Club, a Certified Residential Specialist, and a graduate of the Real Estate Institute. Chenal Properties is the broker for PotlatchDeltic’s master planned communities in Arkansas – Chenal Valley, Chenal Downs, and Wildwood Place in west Little Rock and Red Oak Ridge in Hot Springs. All have roots as timberland and share a vision of exceptional communities. Find out more at chenalproperties.com.
