Smaller, More Affordable Homes
In 2010 I am hopeful that the building industry will play a major role in improving the lives of the individuals who live in this great country.
During a time when money is tight and as inflation looms, housing affordability and the cost of homeownership are key issues. While many of us feel the short-term, negative impact of lower home prices, there are many still who find opportunity in a market where owning a home for the first time is economically viable.
Bolstered by affordable interest rates and low house prices, housing affordability continues to run at close to record levels, according to a joint study by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Wells Fargo.
The study showed that 70.1% of all new and existing homes sold in the third quarter of 2009 were affordable to families earning the national median income of $64,000, up significantly from 56.1% in the third quarter of 2008.
Ownership in this country has always equated to opportunity. At a time when housing is at its most affordable, the actions taken by Congress to stimulate housing by extending the federal tax credit beyond its initial deadline and expanding it to a wider group of eligible home buyers is commendable.
In line with more affordable prices the housing industry is also seeing a welcome trend toward smaller, more efficient, more "customized" homes. Many builders are realizing that in this economy bigger is not always better and innovative designs are helping to lead the way.
Without the extra sticks and bricks to pay for builders can focus attention back to the lost art of craftsmanship. We can once again marry our houses to the land and in turn we can once again connect more meaningfully to our homes.
In a telling sign of the times the current process for appraising homes (distressed or otherwise) seems to be naming the most recent chapter of our economic history.
It would appear as though the "American Dream" of homeownership has become something too easily bought and sold - and sadly undervalued. Our houses have become "disposable"; little more than a five year fling.
As the owner of a "design-build" firm I savor the concept of the "not so big house". Homes that occupy a smaller footprint must be designed with greater care in an attempt to maximize every available space. The oft-overlooked cubbyhole, reading nook, furniture niche, or low spot beneath the main stair.
How does the small custom builder know where to place these little gems and how are these spaces going to be used and by whom? Through close and personal contact with the people who will be living in these spaces I am able to build a home that fits my clients' lifestyle. Through trust, care, and mutual understanding I am able to develop personalized homes and lasting relationships.
As a custom home builder I like to think that the homes I build are not "disposable." As an American I am hopeful that instead of placing a price-tag on the "American Dream", we can learn to truly live the "American Dream" - in a house that is more intimate; more unique; responsible, sustainable, and economical; safer; healthier; in a house full of character, charm, warmth, and memories - in a house that is a home.
As a custom home builder business would be great - better neighborhoods, a stronger community, a prosperous nation, perhaps the world would even be a better place to live - if only we would fall more deeply in love with our homes again.
When it comes to what makes a house a home, just "Ask a Builder."
As always e-mail your questions or comments to joel@goldenrulebuilders.com or write to "Ask a Builder" at P.O. box 294, Catlett, VA 20119
Barkman is president of the Fauquier Chapter of The Northern Virginia Building Industry Association.
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3409 Catlett Road, Catlett, Virginia 20119