With more time being spent at home this year, sheltering in place has made us think about the concept of home through a new lens. Home is a retreat to learn, grow, and make lasting memories. It’s a space to learn, work, and accomplish goals. We’ve rounded up five ways priorities and must-haves may shift during the home search.
Most of us have become well acquainted with our kitchens this year. A walk-in pantry to stay organized, an abundance of cabinet space, or a prep kitchen may be moving to the top of your priority list. Think: a cozy coffee bar where you can brew your morning pick-me-up or double islands for extra prep space. These features can make the heart of your home even more efficient.
With a vast number of Minnesotans working from home this year, having a dedicated home office is making its way up the priority list for many homebuyers. “Among Americans working from home because of the pandemic, 75% said they would prefer to continue to do so at least half the time, if given the option, after the pandemic subsides,” according to a recent Zillow survey conducted by The Harris Poll. Better lighting, more storage, and privacy for video calls can make this space both more comfortable and more functional. And if working from home becomes the norm, having a dedicated space to work can help define work-life balance and give homeowners a mental rest at the end of the day.
Whether you’re a yogi, a weight-lifting enthusiast, or just want a space to shoot some hoops, adding a home gym or an athletic court to your new home might be just the ticket to expending some of that extra energy. And indoor courts can be used for so much more than just playing basketball—set up a volleyball net, shoot some soccer goals, or use the open space to set up relay runs for the kids.
Spending time outdoors helps to refresh and invigorate us, so take advantage of your outdoor areas by making them an extension of your living areas, luring you out into the fresh air.
Read: Now Trending in Outdoor Living >>
Cooking more often, working from home, binge-watching the latest shows—spending so much more time at home may have some homeowners seeing a bump in their utility bills. If you’re shopping for a new home, you have peace of mind knowing the new homes you’ll find on the Parade of Homes will save energy dollars over virtually all older homes.
When it comes to remodeling your home, who you choose to work with matters just as much as what you plan to change. A great remodeler will guide you through a complex process with expertise, transparency, and professionalism. And in a world of DIY shows and social media inspiration, it can be tempting to cut corners or rush the hiring process. But a remodel is a major investment in your home — and your peace of mind depends on getting it right from the start.
So, what does hiring a professional remodeler actually look like?
Choosing the right paint color for your home can be overwhelming. With endless shades and finishes available, it’s easy to make mistakes that lead to regret later. Here, Jean Haukaas, Hirshfield's Design Resource Showroom manager, shares some of the most common paint color mistakes homeowners make — and how to avoid them.
Older homes are desirable for their historic charm and established neighborhoods, but when it comes to amenities that promote health and overall wellbeing, your 1930s Tudor may be lacking. Through strategic remodeling, these older homes can be updated to meet contemporary wellness needs, whether it’s more windows to increase natural light, a reimagined kitchen that encourages cooking balanced meals, or smart features that make day-to-day life
a little easier.
