When buying a home in today’s climate…maybe the new question is “Can you see yourself quarantining here?” As we look forward, we see the light at the end of the tunnel for our country and for Central Indiana. As a business, there were lessons to be learned and new ways to think about what we wanted in a home. According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), before April 2020, the top reason for someone to sell their home was because they wanted to be closer to friends and family. Home sellers who sold their home after March were more likely to report the main reason for selling was because their home was too small.
More Space
Between working from home, virtual schooling and limiting our social bubbles, the need for space and modern-day conveniences took precedent. The Indianapolis area was no exception. With family members working and studying remotely, it increased the desire for more dedicated home office and private workspaces, as opposed to creating makeshift desk setups. An extra bedroom is more in demand nowadays for a home office rather than to be used as a guest room. Creating multiple workspaces throughout the home means that two people can work from home at the same time without bothering each other. As a result, the trend of people looking for more space in suburban areas was one we saw across the country.
A Multi-Functional Kitchen
Although kitchens have long been considered the home hub, they are the heart of the home more than ever before. With fewer social activities, the family eating together every evening of the week has caused us to look at our living and dining spaces, especially the kitchen. The demand for larger kitchen islands with seating, as well as integrated kitchen tables or banquette-style seating has been prioritized. These spaces now need to be multi-functional for eating, entertaining, helping with kids' homework, or even zoom calls.
Home Exercise Space
If we could fulfill our entire wish list, let’s add to that an at-home exercise space with room for home-gym equipment and virtual workout sessions. While lockdown limited our ability to go to a gym, the need for exercise as a stress-reliever has never felt more necessary. This time has certainly placed more emphasis on carving out space within our home or a home gym. Virtual personal training sessions have gained momentum as well as online classes utilizing equipment such as Peloton bikes or Mirror and exercising with friends online.
Outdoor Living Area
And finally, let us not forget that even in central Indiana, we grill and use our outdoor space at least eight months out of the year. An area for outdoor living has never been so desired. A firepit night with family or social distancing with neighbors has evolved from simply relaxing to a retreat to reconnect.
No matter your reason for moving: career change, to be closer to friends and family, or to find a new or different space for your needs, CENTURY 21 Scheetz agents are #relentless in finding you the perfect home or helping you sell your home. Serving Indianapolis, surrounding counties and Bloomington, contact your CENTURY 21 Scheetz agent today.
