If you’re in the market for a new home and it’s not your first-time looking for real estate, you may wonder what features most second-purchase homes have. We’ll take a look at move-up home features throughout this article.
According to U.S. Census data, about 16% of all moves are for better or newer housing. These move-up homes are often more expensive homes than the first one, and typically, they’re in a better neighborhood, maybe even a better location within a city.
This article will focus on new construction homes in the San Antonio area. You’ll discover that many move-up homes have features today’s homebuyers want when they purchase a house.
New homes often allow new home buyers to choose options and upgrades. Home builders often include upgrades recommended by their design team when they opt to build a quick move-in home.
Here are eight features of move-up homes that you may want to consider when you’re ready to move out of your starter home.
Larger Floor Plan, Spacious Rooms
When ready for a move-up home, you usually look for more space. It’s likely because you’ve entered a new stage of life. You and your kids are older, or maybe you’ve added new members to the family. Either way, you want more space and larger rooms that feel open.
Move-up homes are often larger than starter homes, but it’s not just about having more rooms. Move-up homes typically have larger rooms with more open space and storage space. You may have a basement and home office that you didn’t have before.
Brick Homes on Larger Homesite
A move-up home will usually have more yard space and more curb appeal. The exterior may be brick or stone instead of having vinyl siding or stucco. The yard may also be much larger, both in front and in the back. You’ll probably also see premium fences made of block or wood instead of chain link or vinyl plank. Professional landscaping design is another feature of move-up homes. In some communities, lawn care may be part of the home owner’s association (HOA) fees. You should have more room for gardening or outdoor play equipment in your second home.
Spacious Kitchen
Often, individuals claim that the heart of the home is the kitchen. Move-up residences typically have a spacious kitchen with luxury features, granite countertops, custom cabinetry, walk-in pantries, and high-quality appliances. Expect extra storage space, too.
Some move-up homes will have added kitchen features, a wine pantry, a convection oven, and a two-sided refrigerator. In addition to a larger, more luxurious kitchen, you will also probably have a dining room and more space for cooking and entertainment.
Master-Planned Community
Many new construction homes designed as second homes are part of a master community. These communities offer a variety of new homes, which means you can usually find affordable first-time homes and expensive custom estates. In most cases, many new construction homes in master-planned communities are more costly, move-up houses for growing families.
Many smaller communities within a larger planned neighborhood are enclosed with a gate for more privacy and security. There are usually community pools, clubhouses, golf courses, sports courts, parks, and many other amenities.
Ensuite Bedrooms
The private bathroom inside the main bedroom is a feature of many homes built after the 1980s. Still, it’s becoming even more common for many bedrooms to have an ensuite for elegance and privacy. Modern bathrooms have plenty of storage space built into the room to reduce clutter and keep your home organized. Some of these bathrooms are even designed with spa-like elements, a rain shower enclosure, surround-sound speakers, a jetted tub, and a steam room.
Proximity to Golf Courses, Shopping, Dining, Entertainment
The community you live in will have neighborhood amenities. Some neighborhoods will have a golf course, a resort, or an Olympic-sized pool, and they are typically located near conveniences like shopping malls and commercial centers.
Some more exclusive communities or neighborhoods outside of areas with modern conveniences will generally have easy access to an Interstate connecting you to these things. Schools, playgrounds, and parks will be part of the community environment.
Energy Efficient
Older homes were built under old codes, using older materials and processes. These homes are not as energy efficient as modern homes. A second home bu lt with today’s building supplies is more likely to be made from recyclable materials, clay bricks, bamboo, and other eco-friendly materials.
Your home will probably include LED lighting with a lower energy load. The water fixtures may also offer eco-conscious features. At the same time, a new construction home has better windows, insulation, and building processes that reduce the home’s overall footprint. The energy-efficient appliances and integrated technology make it easier or new homes to interact with intelligent devices. These devices often help improve energy efficiency by controlling how lig ts, your thermostat, and other things operate.
Outdoor Living Space
A big trend in real estate is outdoor living, from full kitchens to living rooms with an entertainment center. A feature absent from many first-time home purchases.
Second and third homes are built for growing families and offer entertainment areas. Outdoor spaces in move-up dwellings are often spacious and covered with easy access to the house. These spaces can accommodate entertaining amenities that fit your lifestyle.
Homeowners can include a bar or pergola to enjoy sunsets. Outdoor fire pits and fireplaces are attractive amenities for year-round outdoor fun.
More Experience With Buying a Home
Second and third-time homeowners have more experience with real estate, which usually means you know what you want out of your home. It can be a little easier to navigate the process, even though you may be selling your current home while buying the next house. There are plenty of moving parts to the process, but you’ll be more confident now that you know what your move-up home may include.
