When it comes to buying a new home, there are many things you need to consider. From the number of bedrooms and bathrooms to kitchen appliances and laundry rooms, you have a lot of choices to make.
It’s also a good idea to keep up with the latest trends in homes and home buying. Staying on top of the latest features can help you find the perfect home for your family.
Walk-In Closets
While many home buyers focus on bedrooms, bathrooms, and living areas when shopping for new homes for sale in Huntsville, AL, a spacious walk-in closet can add functionality and value. The modern walk-in closet has become more than a place to store clothes, and women and men alike are willing to pay for this luxury feature that adds a personal touch to their homes. The ideal closet features a variety of storage options from floor to ceiling. Consider storing shoes and accessories in custom drawers while adding shelving or large cabinets to store clothing and other items. Shelving can be especially useful for storing out-of-season clothes.
Smart Home Technology
The smart home is a fast-growing technology trend with many benefits. With the rise of smartphone technology, home automation systems have become more intuitive and easier to use. Smart home devices can be controlled through a user-friendly app, allowing homeowners to control their appliances and monitor security features.
In addition to convenience, smart home technology can also save money. For example, smart lighting uses less energy than traditional bulbs, and some devices can track energy usage and even monitor water consumption. Other smart home technologies include a video doorbell, a smart security system, and smart thermostats. Some smart home technology is designed to be safe for seniors. For instance, a smart home security system may have sensors that alert family members to potential intruders and remotely turn on lights to scare them away. Other smart security features can help ensure the safety of senior residents by enabling them to lock and unlock their doors, monitor the front yard, and communicate with neighbors.
Stainless Steel Appliances
While they may have gone out of style in the 1990s, stainless steel appliances have returned. They’re a popular choice because they’re versatile and look great in any kitchen. They also have a neutral tone, which goes well with any color scheme. Whether you have a traditional kitchen with natural wood cabinets or a modern design with white marble countertops, stainless steel appliances will blend right in. They’re also popular because they show off your cooking skills and make your home look upscale. Plus, they’re durable and easy to clean, making them a great investment for new homeowners.
Granite Countertops
Granite and quartz countertops are high-end building materials that can increase the real estate value of a new home. Both are durable, easy to clean, and match nearly any style. Granite appeals to buyers who prefer all-natural materials and offers more design flexibility. Kitchen granite countertops provide a classic look that will remain in style for years while adding a sense of luxury to any room. The natural material is available in almost any color, from white and black to blues, reds, and gold. Choosing the right slab is important because each piece’s color, texture, and veining vary widely. The homeowner should be able to view the entire stone and compare its features before deciding. While granite is exceedingly dense, it is porous and requires sealing upon installation and re-sealing annually. It also contains radioactive elements such as uranium, thorium, and radium. These can decay into radon, a colorless, odorless gas that can cause lung cancer. However, the amount of radon released from granite is typically lower than from most other sources.
Wood Floors
Wood floors add a touch of elegance to any home. They also make a room look bigger. In addition, they are easy to clean and require little maintenance. Wood flooring is a timeless feature that can increase the resale value of a home. In addition, many families with allergies prefer hardwood floors over carpets because they are more hygienic and do not collect dust, pollen, and animal dander like carpets.
Hardwoods can be purchased in various colors and stains to match any décor. They can also be sanded and refinished to renew their look. When selecting wood for your floor, choose a species with a high Janka rating, which indicates the wood’s strength and durability. For example, hickory and maple have higher Janka scores than southern yellow pine, making them more durable. The wood’s photosensitivity is another factor to consider. Some woods (such as cherry) are more light-sensitive and may change color over time.
Fireplaces
Fireplaces are a cozy addition to any home and are perfect for entertaining. They also provide a heat source during power outages. This feature is especially useful during winter when power outages can last for days.
While fireplaces add value to homes, they can be difficult to maintain if not cared for properly. If the tiles or other ornate elements need to be replaced, it can be a costly process. Installing them when constructing a new home is best to avoid costly replacements.
