4 Trends That Define the Future of Master Planned Communities

According to John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC), more home builders are shifting their business strategies to align with affordability concerns among a growing number of consumers, impacting the future of new-home planned communities. In a recent JBREC survey, 53% of builders say they are moving to smaller lot sizes for detached homes to better enable affordability. Adding more rental options to master-planned communities also will become more commonplace, with 42% of developers already including or are planning to offer built-to-rent options in their communities.

However, the luxury segment is unlikely to go away anytime soon. Buyers continue to be interested in luxury housing options, especially among older generations. Affordability challenges have brought more attention to the needs of first-time buyers, but considering the housing quality of older generations is just as important, according to JBREC, especially as the population ages.

Master planned communities will benefit as active parenting shifts to active grandparenting. Our New Home Trends Institute found that 45% of 55+ consumers live 30 minutes or less from their grandchildren. This is particularly evident in cities like Houston, where cultures, rising childcare costs, and the steady draw of master-planned communities combine to make living near family desirable and practical.

Based in Houston, Jessica Newhouse highlights Bridgeland, where families with kids may buy a two-story home by Highland Homes, and grandparents may purchase single-story Duets by Beazer down the street.