Every American has conjured an image of their dream home at some point in their lives.
Whether it’s a cozy cottage nestled in the woods or a sprawling mansion with a pool, our dream homes reflect our aspirations and desires. But what do these dreams look like collectively, and how attainable are they?
In a recent survey of more than 900 Americans, Lombardo Homes dove into the minds of many, uncovering fascinating trends and preferences in the pursuit of the perfect abode.
The study found that when it comes to bringing their dream homes to life, 69% of Americans prefer building over renovating.
And the quintessential dream home, according to the survey, boasts four bedrooms, three bathrooms and spans approximately 4,600 square feet.
Key features like a spacious kitchen, an ample backyard and prime location are non-negotiables for most dream home seekers.
It’s not just about the residence, but also what the neighborhood offers, with proximity to good schools (56%), shopping (79%) and entertainment hubs (46%) topping the list of priorities.
Luxury is also on the menu for many, with coveted amenities including a multi-car garage, energy-efficient appliances, and a dedicated hobby room.
While suburban living reigns supreme for the majority, a significant 19% crave the tranquility of the countryside — while 18% yearn for the hustle and bustle of city life. Beachfront, waterfront and mountain retreats also hold allure for a sizable portion of dream home enthusiasts.
When it comes to aesthetics, Americans prefer a blend of timeless and trendy. Contemporary, Victorian, and ranch-style exteriors are popular choices, with 77% leaning towards neutral paint tones over bold hues. Whites, off-whites and greige dominate the color palette.
However, 27% dare to be bold with blues, charcoal and greens making a statement in their interiors. Modern, contemporary and farmhouse styles are the top contenders for interior design, with a clear preference for minimalist over maximalist approaches.
Meanwhile, in the kaleidoscope of American dreams, the survey also found that each generation paints a unique portrait of their ideal home. The data also unveils intriguing trends across Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z, and where they want to live.
Remarkably, all four generations converge on certain aspects of their dream homes: three bathrooms, neutral exterior paint, and three to four bedrooms are unanimous favorites.
Yet, nuances emerge when it comes to location and architectural style.
While contemporary facades win favor across three generations, Gen X bucks the trend, leaning towards the timeless charm of ranch-style homes. And while suburban living captures the hearts of most, Gen X stands apart, yearning for the sun-kissed serenity of beachside living.
When it comes to square footage, Gen X dreams big, with an average aspiration of 7,077 square feet. Baby Boomers envision a smaller 3,860 square feet, while Millennials and Gen Z settle for slightly less at 3,700 and 3,571 square feet respectively.
Harnessing the power of AI, the study brought these dreams to life, offering glimpses into the homes that mirror generational aspirations.
For many Americans, homeownership isn’t just a personal choice; it’s woven into the fabric of the “American Dream.” Yet, for a significant portion, this dream remains elusive. A staggering 52% doubt they’ll ever grasp the keys to their ideal home, with Gen Z and Millennials leading the charge in disillusionment.
Cost looms large as a barrier to homeownership, with dreams priced between $500,000 and $1 million or more across the board.
Despite the hurdles, determination prevails: 58% of respondents currently own, while 42% of renters harbor plans to join the ranks of homeowners within the next five years.
Yet, this transition is not without trepidation.
The leap from renting to owning stirs anxiety in 64% of aspiring homeowners, underscoring the magnitude of this life-changing decision.
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