Home buyers have preferences when it comes to the architectural style of the house they buy, but most will choose function over design when it comes time to make an offer. After all, it’s better to have a home with a great kitchen and ample storage than to have the perfect example of an American Craftsman but nowhere to put your stuff. There’s also the problem of availability. Some home styles are more common than others. In fact, according to a new report from the National Association of Realtors’ consumer website, half of all homes listed in May were Colonial/American Traditional. Ranches were the next most common architectural style at 34.1 percent of listings. Together, the two make up nearly 85 percent of all available homes. Hannah Jones, the website’s senior economic research analyst, says architecture is about more than just the look of the home. “Architecture isn’t just about aesthetics, it often reflects where and when a home was built, and what buyers prioritized,” Jones said. “This report highlights the rich diversity of American housing styles and helps consumers understand how design trends intersect with affordability and demand.” (source)
