75 Unique Homes That Make People Instantly Want To Redecorate Theirs

Other milestones are shifting in the US as well, with more than half of young adults ages 18 to 24 living with their parents, fertility rates and the percent of married couples with children decreasing, and more people opting to live alone.

At the same time, the median home size leveled off at 2,155 square feet in 2025, and builders expect to incorporate more transition or flex spaces, such as drop zones and multipurpose rooms, as well as electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.

Builders are also trying to address affordability concerns by offering sales incentives (67%) and cutting home prices (41%), a trend that continues to grow compared to efforts in 2024.

When people are looking to buy their very first starter home, they usually stick to features that match their tighter budgets. Wealthier, high-end buyers, on the other hand, are looking for a lot more. They typically want extra bedrooms, more bathrooms, and dedicated home offices.

On top of that, high-end buyers are much more likely to look for things like:

1. Green certifications: Official stamps of approval for things like top-tier energy efficiency, cleaner indoor air quality, and smart water usage.
2. Special kitchen storage: Extra spaces built just for organizing food and cooking gear.
3. Peace and quiet: Walls and floors that are specially soundproofed.
4. Smart tech systems: Built-in setups to easily manage things like lighting controls, energy use, and home security.
5. Neighborhood perks: Community extras right outside their door, like jogging trails, walking paths, parks, and nearby shops.