The Top New-Home Amenities

The four most popular amenities in new homes are a walk-in closet in the master bedroom, low e-windows, a laundry room, and a great room, according to a new National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) survey. The survey found that buyers want convenience, livability, and energy savings, so builders are offering Energy Star-rated appliances, programmable thermostats, and Energy Star-rated windows. Other popular features are granite counter tops, double sinks, kitchen islands, linen closets, and a private toilet in the bathroom. New home sales fell this February by 3.3 percent compared to January, with the Northeast hardest hit by sales falling 32.4 percent. The Midwest showed a gain of 36.7 percent. The inventory of new homes for sale grew to 189,000 in February, as 2014 is expected to be a strong year for housing, according to NAHB chief economist David Crowe. | Read More