The global pandemic has us all rethinking a lot of things, from the larger questions of what we are doing with our lives, to where and how we work, to more mundane everyday questions like “how often should we wash our hands”?  As a result of all of this new found time to think, mostly at home, and with these new questions, many people are rethinking the way that they live (and now work) at home.  So what are the big residential changes we are seeing and what are those that we are likely to see in the coming months as the result of COVID? 

1. THE DESIRE FOR MORE SPACE. With mom and dad working from home, and kids attending class virtually, space is at a premium more than ever before. So areas that were previously underutilized, or not used at all, have suddenly taken on new life. One of my clients turned her large kitchen pantry into an office for one of her kids (the downside – an overabundance of pantry snacks consumed by that child during the school day). In fact, my husband Jimmy who is now working from home turned our LAUNDRY ROOM into a remote architect’s office.
2. THE IMPORTANCE OF OUTDOOR SPACE. Even a small balcony can suffice – but outdoors comes at a premium now. Condo dwellers who never before used their balconies now find they are an excellent way to enjoy some fresh air without exposure to others. And for others stuck at home, the yard becomes a sanctuary away from the dwelling.  And now that it’s been determined that we’re safer seeing other people if we are outside, many only socialize outdoors and so outdoor kitchens and covered outdoor spaces have surged in popularity.
3. HANDWASHING STATIONS. Clients who are remodeling are considering extra faucets. In addition to an extra faucet in the kitchen island nearest the stove, why not install a faucet on the guest side of the island to make it easier for those passing by to wash?  While I haven’t seen it done quite yet, there’s talk of putting sinks inside the main doors visitors enter. And of course, while COVID does not appear to be carried via outdoor dirt or soil, the new emphasis on cleanliness has many installing shoe racks and taking shoes off before they enter the house.
4. DROPOFF STATIONS and PACKAGE DOORS. Since more food and other goods are being delivered to the home these days than ever before, in order to limit contact with delivery people (and avoid work and school interruptions to open the door during the day), dropoff stations have become popular. This can be in the form of a large lockable wooden box or a door similar to a pet door in the exterior entrance allowing packages to be put inside.
5. WHERE DOES THE PELOTON GO? I have heard this more times than I can count! Home exercise equipment is more important that ever before, as some are reticent to go to gyms and public spaces to exercise.

What does all this mean for home sellers and buyers? Home sellers will want to stage with these ideas in mind. Make sure you dress up outdoor spaces and make them looked used, useable, and inviting. Showcase an exercise area. While you don’t have to remodel in order to sell, a little staging can help the buyer visualize how wonderful your home is even in quarantine. For home buyers, keeping in mind what is most important to them when they are at home is key.

Please contact me for more information on the current market and trends.  I am always here to help.