Is the Downsizing Trend Fading?

Homes are getting bigger again. Census Bureau data shows that 2011 home starts were bigger with more features and amenities than those built in 2010.

According to the data, the average new-home size grew from 2,381 square feet in 2010 to 2,522 square feet in 2011. Forty-two percent of the new homes had four or more bedrooms, and 28 percent of the new homes had three or more full bathrooms.

However, housing experts are quick to point out that home construction last year saw its worst year on record, so the characteristics of new homes from last year is being pulled from a much smaller pool of homes than previous years.

Also, the average sales price for a new home also increased last year, going from $264,900 in 2010 to $274,400 in 2011.

Source: “Size Matters: Newly Constructed Home Trends in 2011,” RISMedia (Feb. 16, 2012)