1. The Rise of Working-Class Suburbs
Affordable suburbs with access to urban areas will become more desirable as hybrid work takes hold and pushes people to seek affordable homes with more space. Expect to see a trend toward larger commute-from-able towns with good connection to major metropolitan areas. Learn more about suburbs with great commuting options.
2. Micro-Living for Older Generations
As baby boomers and Gen Xers look to downsize and maintain a city lifestyle in retirement, the demand for micro-living units and communal housing options will grow. Senior-focused co-living developments that offer communal spaces and amenities, along with smaller, affordable residences, will become more common. Check out micro-living solutions for seniors.
3. Sustainable and Self-Sufficient Homes
Climate-conscious real estate is becoming a reality, with consumers willing to pay more for energy-efficient features and sustainable designs. Look for homes that incorporate solar panels, smart thermostats, water-saving technologies, and eco-friendly materials. Read more about sustainable home features.
4. Investment in ’18-Hour Cities’
Investment in ’18-hour cities’ – mid-sized metropolitan areas attracting remote workers and entrepreneurs – will grow as people opt out of expensive coastal cities for more affordable locales with plenty of opportunities.
5. Mobility-Friendly Residences
Accessible housing that accommodates people with disabilities or aging adults looking to age in place will also be in higher demand. You can expect to see features like stairless homes, wide hallways and doorways, accessible bathrooms, and smart home technologies that enable ease of access and independence.
6. Second-Tier Suburbs
Suburbs of already established cities will see growth as buyers looking to leave urban centers gravitate toward more affordable nearby areas with access to amenities. These secondary suburbs offer more affordable home prices, distance from congestion, and better school systems.
7. Mixed-Use Developments
Integrating residential areas with retail, restaurants, and offices to create walkable neighborhoods will become increasingly popular as people seek convenient lifestyles with fewer commutes.
8. Adaptive Reuse and Historic Preservation
Finding new life for outdated buildings, from warehouses to schools, through adaptive reuse to create modern livable spaces is an emerging trend. Preserving and restoring historic homes and buildings is also becoming a priority, with many cities and states offering tax incentives to encourage restoration rather than demolition.
9. Collaborative Investment Models
Community-based funding models such as crowdfunding and real estate investment trusts (REITs) that offer more accessibility and diversification to investors will continue to gain traction.
Conclusion
These are the trends that buyers, investors, and agents should watch out for in the coming year. Whether you’re relocating, investing, or preparing your current home for sale, these developments can help you make informed decisions and stay ahead of the competition in the evolving real estate market.
