By Lanny McInnes
As we enter the third weekend of the 2018 Spring Parade of Homes, visiting the show homes in and around Winnipeg can provide new homebuyers with a first-hand glimpse as to how Manitoba home builders are meeting the design requirements and functionality demanded by today’s new home-buying market.
Nowhere else in Canada can you visit 138 unique show homes over a three-week period to see the latest designs and trends.
According to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association’s latest Homebuyer Preference Study, new homebuyers perceive value in designs, features and finishes that provide the most benefit for the price.
This is especially true in the Manitoba market.
Inside the home, the kitchen serves as the control centre for today’s homeowners. The CHBA study suggests the priorities and preferences of new homebuyers match this need for maximum functionality in this area of the home. Open-concept kitchens with an island remain a top must-have for homebuyers. Having a walk-in kitchen pantry is also a highly desired feature, especially for growing families with children. Formal living rooms and dining rooms are trending higher in importance, while special-purpose rooms such as media rooms or home workshops are trending downward. These are main features of most of this year’s Parade show homes.
Master suites continue to be a highly valued sanctuary for home buyers. Walk-in closets and an ensuite off the master bedroom are absolute must-haves for today’s homebuyer.
Homebuyers are looking for ensuites that are highly functional, with double sinks being a very desirable feature. Oversized showers and soaker tubs remain a very desirable feature in an ensuite. Walk-in closets in the secondary bedrooms are becoming a preferred feature and a traditional linen closet remains a must-have for new homebuyers. Functionality and storage remain very important to today’s new homebuyer.
Energy efficiency is also a top priority. Energy-efficient home appliances, high-efficiency windows and an overall energy efficient home continue to be of high value. Low-flow toilets rank higher than dual-flush toilets in terms of addressing water efficiency for new homes. And of course, a two-car garage is also still a must-have for the vast majority of new homebuyers.
The CHBA study also provided interesting insight on how new homebuyers are finding and selecting their new home. While the internet is an essential tool for today’s homebuyer, the majority still rely on physically viewing homes and communities as the first step. The Manitoba Home Builders’ Association Parade of Homes provides Manitobans with an unmatched opportunity to visit show homes and the newest communities right across Winnipeg and in other communities across Manitoba. And remember, Parade show homes are open year-round, not just during the spring and fall parades.
The best way for you to discover what your must-have home features are is by visiting the new show homes and new communities featured in the MHBA’s Parade of Homes. The 2018 Spring Parade of Homes is on now until March 25.