The housing downturn of the last few years affected not only the number of new homes that are built each year, but also the characteristics, features and size of the ones that do get built.  Builders and other industry professionals now have an opportunity to find out what home buyers really want and will not give up in today’s market, as well as which features they are ready to leave behind in light of current economic realities with a new publication from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

What do home buyers really want?

First and foremost, energy efficiency.  Some of the most wanted features involve saving energy.  Nine out of ten buyers would rather buy a home with energy-efficient features and permanently lower utility bills than one without those features that costs 2 to 3 percent less.

Today’s home buyers recognize the need for energy-efficient homes and understand the importance of energy-star rating for the whole home and not just appliances and windows.