Home Sizes Expand in Recent Years

Ever notice when driving through areas like Vienna, Arlington, and Falls Church, Virginia, that there are large homes sprinkled in among the older, tiny homes? This is because many families are re-sizing their estates and expanding their properties. Many of these older homes are becoming “tear downs” where a brand new, much larger home will take its place. The expansion in housing sizes is due to the growth in square footage, economic and household changes, and the demand for luxury homes.

These smaller homes, averaging around 1,000 and 2,000 square feet, are miniature in comparison to the “McMansions” popping up in their neighboring counties. Take a drive down to Linton Hall in Gainesville and you’ll see the difference. Many families in this area are opting for larger homes with more space to grow into. These homes are becoming increasingly popular and available, simply because of their larger sizes.

This could be due to the recent economic changes, according to a recent article, “three-bedroom homes will soon be viewed as minimalistic, and a four-bedroom model will become the new normal.” First time buyers and growing families are looking to get the most for their money even if it means buying properties further out from the city or stretching their budgets. They want more space, bigger rooms and closets, and open concept homes with room to live well in.

Luxury homes make up more of the market than they have in years past with a strong increase in sales of homes costing $750,000 and up. Sales of these type of homes are up 49.8% across the entire U.S. and are most popular in the Western part of the country.

That doesn’t mean that our area is immune to the growing demand for these properties. The trend in “tear downs” is becoming increasingly popular and new homes are popping up every day. Families are seeking more luxury sized homes with all of the trimmings and are willing to pay extra to get them. These areas, Vienna, Arlington, Gainesville, Manassas, and surrounding neighborhoods, are becoming increasingly affluent, as well. Thus leading to the increase in housing prices and demand for luxury amenities.