4 cottage homes for today's buyer market

EDITOR'S NOTE: THIS ARTICLE IS POSTED AS A PDF FILE. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE COTTAGE HOUSE REVIEW REPORT (PDF)

I’m constantly coming across new survey findings and research studies that indicate the dramatic changes we’re witnessing in housing data, design trends, and demographics. While the numbers and details vary from survey to survey, the general findings show that we’re in the midst of substantial changes in what our clients are not only requesting, but also what they can afford.

This month, our House Review design team focuses on small cottage homes. First, it should be stated that not all of our clients are interest- ed in resizing (a more palatable term than “down-sizing”) their home. Perhaps even more important is the fact that those who are interested in
smaller homes want to increase their “living efficiency.” In other words, they’re adamant about higher values for everything from energy efficiency to pedestrian-friendly locations.

The following projects and concepts offer a great deal of diversity and flexibility, both of which prove crucial in creating homes that can appeal to first-time buyers and those looking to “resize.”

DOWNLOAD THE COTTAGE HOUSE REVIEW REPORT (PDF)

For more on these plans and to view past House Review themes, visit www.HousingZone.com/HouseReview.