What is an Ideal Community for Home Buyers?
Judie Docs, Executive Officer – CSP, MCSP, CGP, CMP, MIRM
North Coast Building Industry Association (NCBIA) www.ncbia.com
Finding the Right Community Is Just as Important as Finding the Right Home
For many homebuyers, purchasing a new home also means moving to a new community. Where you live can have a significant impact on your family’s quality of life. Finding a neighborhood that complements your lifestyle is just as important as choosing the right floor plan, square footage, or number of bedrooms.
What are today’s homebuyers looking for in a community?
A recent survey by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals that buyers are placing just as much importance on community amenities as they are on the home itself.
The survey found that 70% of buyers want to live near retail conveniences, such as grocery stores and pharmacies. With today’s busy lifestyles, having everyday necessities close to home saves both time and money. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, spending on gasoline has increased significantly in recent years, making shorter trips for daily errands even more valuable.
Outdoor amenities also rank high on buyers’ wish lists. Two-thirds (66%) of buyers want to live near parks or in communities with walking and jogging trails. Whether it’s an evening stroll, a morning jog, or spending time with family outdoors, access to green space contributes to a healthier, more active lifestyle. Research continues to show that spending time outdoors can improve both physical and mental well-being.
When it comes to location, 53% of buyers prefer suburban communities, while only 25% would choose a rural location, with even fewer preferring a central city setting. The typical buyer is willing to commute about 11 miles one way to work, making suburban neighborhoods an attractive balance between convenience and lifestyle.
Let NCBIA Help You Find the Right Professional
Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling your current one, or searching for a trusted contractor, the North Coast Building Industry Association (NCBIA) is here to help.
As a not-for-profit association serving Lorain, Erie, and Huron counties, NCBIA represents professional builders, remodelers, and industry experts committed to quality, integrity, and professionalism.
Choosing an NCBIA member is an important step in protecting one of your largest investments. If you’re looking for a qualified professional—or want to verify whether your contractor is an NCBIA member—visit www.ncbia.com or call 440-934-1090.
Be sure to explore our Job Posting Board under the Industry tab for employment opportunities within the local building industry.
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