According to John Milnes Baker, author of “American House Styles: A Concise Guide,” “The salt-box, the Cape Code, the octagon…are often treated as styles when in fact they are really building types.” So while the architectural science of housing styles may be confusing, homebuyers still gravitate to one look that captures their heart.

Explanation of the Housing Trends

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said, “Sales of new single-family houses in January 2016 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 494,000…”

Housing selections are influenced by age. Millennials want modern homes or high-rise penthouses. Baby Boomers choose ranch homes.

The economy, pricing, inventory and culture are interrelated factors that affect buying trends. The median sales price of new homes during January 2016 was $278,000. However, the average cost was $365,700.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency published a 2012 report about the status of residential construction and residential infill, the building of new homes in areas that were already in use. It said, “Parking lots, underused commercial properties, and former industrial sites are being replaced by condominiums, apartments, townhouses, and small-lot single-family homes.

Region is a Major Factor

Architectural styles are influenced by region. Also, one city or state may have its own iconic style.

Bungalow and ranch/rambler-style houses are predominate in Kansas, South Dakota, Nebraska, etc . Michigan has almost 33 percent of Colonial style homes. Ohioans like Cape Cod and Colonial homes.

Colonial and Cape Cod-style houses are popular in northeastern states. Victorian houses were featured in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, etc.

Based on its size, residents of southern states have varied tastes but in general lean to more traditional styles. Traditional and contemporary houses are found in Texas. Virginia has traditional, ranch and Colonial architecture. French-styled Colonial architecture is found in Georgia.

Housing Preferences According to Markets 

According to Realtor.com’s “The 20 Hottest U.S. Real Estate Markets in January 2016,” these were the rankings: 1. San Francisco, CA 2. San Jose, CA 3. Dallas, TX, 4. Vallejo, CA, 5. San Diego, CA, 6. Sacramento, CA, 7. Nashville, TN 8. Stockton, CA and 9 Denver, CO and 10. Los Angeles, CA.

On March 11, 2016, the most popular styles were Contemporary 3 br, 3 ba condos with hardwood floors, marble baths, master bedroom. $1,695,000. Single-family split-level homes in Nashville included 4 br, 2 ba with 1,155 sq ft, partial basement,$125,000. In Aurora, a two-story single-family with 5 br 4 ba, 3,349 sq ft two-car garage, covered patio listed for $349,000.

Houseplans reports bungalows, contemporary, cottage, country, craftsman, farmhouse, modern, ranch and traditional to be the most popular styles. The craftsman Plan featured 3 br 2.5 ba with 3,780 sq ft and had a pergola with entertaining section, utility area, den and master suite. Prices start at $1,150.
As with all things in real estate, location is key. Research local and global trends. Then pick the home perfectly suited to your individual style.

Tulsa Property Managers is a Jenks property management company offering professional property and real estate management, consulting and sales services throughout the Jenks and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area.