When buying a home, it’s all about what’s in style
In fashion, one day you’re in and the next day you’re out. That’s not so much the case when it comes to the housing market. Traci Clinton has been a real estate agent at Douglas Elliman for the last 15 years and has seen first-hand the importance that her clients emphasize when making a house a home.
“Having been born and raised in Manhasset, it gives me great satisfaction to work with and introduce new families to the community I feel so passionate about,” said Clinton, who was recently awarded the top number one agent for sales production for the Douglas Elliman Manhasset office. “Prior to real estate, I owned my own interior design firm, Chelsea Interior, that has allowed me to help my buyers envision their potential new home and what can be done to renovate it if need be.”
Although Clinton sells all price points, she is known in the industry for her success in the luxury market and newly constructed homes. A staple in the real estate community, Clinton stays abreast of the current and developing housing trends in the market, sharing the top five design and architectural styles she has been seeing.
Turnkey
“Many years ago, buyers were willing and looking to do major renovation projects so they could get all of the details in a home that they had always wished for,” said Clinton. “With busy work and life schedules, more buyers in the market are looking for either homes completely renovated within the last few years or brand new construction.”
Clinton has found that buyers tend to like the architectural style of a more traditional home, but have been gravitating to a more transitional interior space with a serene color scheme.
“Blending traditional design with a nod to more modern clean lines, with an open concept for the living and entertaining spaces, is what buyers are looking for,” she said.
Gourmet Kitchens
“No matter what price point, the buyers are all about the kitchen as their top priority. They love an open concept having the kitchen open into the family room or den,” said Clinton, adding that buyers are still embracing the white and gray color scheme. “Gold tones in hardware for cabinetry or stone countertops on the island is like a piece of jewelry as it accessorizes the space.”
Clinton added that as much as buyers love the look of marble, it is not very practical for everyday living, and that quartz countertops are gaining momentum.
“In addition to high quality appliances in the kitchen, other extras like warming drawers, Sub-Zero drink drawers, wine coolers, two dishwashers when possible, pot fillers for ease at the stove and other bells and whistles are on their wish lists.”
Smart Homes
“We have become an on-demand society and it’s no surprise that many would want these conveniences of smart home technology woven into their homes,” said Clinton.
Entertainment systems, security cameras, sensors and detectors, window blinds, indoor and outdoor landscape lighting, heating and cooling systems, appliances, irrigation and so much more can all be voice activated, lending to the appeal of a smart home.
“These systems increase the value of the homes, help save energy and improve the safety and security of the property.”
Master Suites
“Home buyers look for a spacious master suite that can serve as a sanctuary and peaceful getaway after a long work day with busy family schedules,” said Clinton, adding that the overwhelming majority of buyers desire separate walk-in custom closets and a spa-like master bath to retreat to.
Wash, Dry, Repeat
“Laundry rooms are actually getting a style makeover from years ago. Second floor laundry rooms in new construction are usually a must and typically builders will provide a second space in the lower level,” said Clinton. “Buyers want them large enough to be able to fold
the laundry with adequate storage space for dirty and clean clothes. It becomes about making the laundry room an extension of the style of their home.”
Traci Clinton is a licensed real estate salesperson and fine home specialist for Douglas Elliman Real Estate. Contact her at 516-627-6626 or traci.clinton@elliman.com.
