New Home Communities: What Do Buyers Actually Want?

Homebuyers looking to move into a new-home community are looking for more than just a house; they’re looking for a place that reflects their desired lifestyle. With that in mind, developers, builders, and designers should consider their amenity selections as much as they’re considering floor plans when planning a new-home community. From health and wellness features to authentic branding, a recent blog post from KGA Studio Architects outlines how to help new housing communities stand out.

Design authenticity casts a wide net for community amenities. Whatever amenities you choose, they should make sense for the community’s target buyers and marketing, reflecting the interests and lifestyle aspirations of its various buyer segments. This is the fun part, so enjoy the creative freedom and see where the process takes you.

Not sure where to start? Begin by addressing these questions:

• What’s the community’s story and branding?
• What type of lifestyles does the community inspire?
• Aside from home preferences and budget, what’s most important to the community’s targeted buyers?

Amenities can complement or highlight assets the site offers, like hills, views, and bodies of water. What’s the region known for? An amenity can highlight elements of local culture or tie into regional history or folklore. Collaborations with outside vendors on events are often popular. Focus on featuring local businesses and restaurants to establish a hometown feel.