What Will Homes Be Like in 2010?

Although new homes a decade from now will increasingly have amenities and features making them safer, more comfortable and more energy-and resource-efficient, experts believe they will look very much like today’s new homes.

Based on current preferences and emerging trends, it is likely that home buyers in 2010 will find that the typical new home fits within the following profile, according to “Housing Facts, Figures and Trends 2001” by the National Assn. of Home Builders:

* 2,200 or more square feet.

* Three or more bedrooms.

* Three bathrooms.

* Garage for two or more cars.

* Average lot about 1,000 square feet smaller than today.

* Universal design to allow aging in place.

* Master bedroom and laundry on the main floor.

* More energy-efficient heating and cooling systems; two-zone heating and cooling system.

* More flexible and adaptable interior designs with spaces that can easily be converted for a variety of purposes, including home office space.

* Modular wiring systems.

* High-speed data access.

* More factory-built components, which reduce on-site labor costs.

* More engineered wood products.

* Increased use of recycled products.

* Materials and products that require less maintenance.

* Neighborhoods with smaller lots, narrower streets and less paved area.

* More mixed-use communities and neo-traditional designs.

* More homes will have security systems, multiple telephone lines, energy management and lighting control systems.