What is a luxury homebuyer looking for when shopping for a new abode? Luxury real estate is about giving the homeowner the lifestyle they seek, along with high end convenience and innovative design.
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Here are some of the major items transforming the luxury home marketplace:
Top notch tech
Home tech is getting smarter and savvier. Luxury home buyers will look for the ease of the tap of a screen or a simple voice command to control a home’s lighting, climate, security and audio. Home tech (vis-à-vis an AI assistant or hub) should also be intuitive enough to anticipate a resident’s habits, preferences and actions in order to make simple tasks simpler. Many second home residents in the valley value their ability to connect remotely to open and close window covers, unlock doors for guests and get the spa ready for arrival.
Stocked kitchen and wine cellar
The kitchen is often the heart of a home. An affluent kitchen will include an open layout for cooking and entertaining, high-performance appliances, a built-in refrigerator and functional yet impressive cabinets. The luxury kitchen will also include stunning countertops, smart lighting, purposeful storage and a large farmhouse basin sink. An exquisite climate-controlled wine cellar will also be standard for this luxury space. Butler’s pantries and back kitchens have become very coveted. This allows for a clean kitchen for entertaining, while providing space for additional refrigerators, dishwashers, and back stock. It also serves as a great space for a caterer.
Luxurious spa bathroom
A spacious spa bathroom is a must in every luxury property. The use of fine materials, fixtures, window dressings and linens provide an elevated yet cozy space. A showstopping rainfall glass shower, deep soaking tub, fireplace and floors with radiant heat provide the ultimate comfort in a spa bathroom. Outdoor showers off the primary bath are being seen more often, especially where there is a beautiful tranquil setting adjacent to the pool or spa.
Walk in closet
Luxury walk-in closets are an essential element in every affluent home. These large, luxurious spaces allow the residents to store clothes and accessories safely, showcase their personal style and dress in the privacy of this beautifully curated space. High quality materials and stunning accents are a must. Islands with plenty of storage remain to be highly coveted. Well-lit closets with LED lighting above each section have become the norm, especially with the new affordability to add strip lighting to any space.
Expansive outdoor kitchen
Outdoor living spaces in luxury abodes will include an outdoor kitchen with grill, cooktop, pizza oven and refrigerator. A bar, fireplace, tv and sparkling pool, and spa are also necessary to complete the en plain air gathering space for friends and family. Some homeowners also prioritize a pool bathroom for their outdoor oasis. Having the outdoor spaces well covered in AZ heat is a must, as is an effective misting system. Sport courts, specifically pickle ball courts, are becoming a big priority where a property size allows.
Private gaming and screening rooms
Families are looking for spaces where they can spend time together. Gaming rooms and home theaters are a must for luxuriant living. A private home theater will offer guests a cinematic experience they will always remember. A high-end screening room and a high performance audio visual system will provide an exciting entertainment space for all. Gaming rooms have become equally sought after, with bowling to billiards to encourage friendly competition.
Exercise room
Luxury homeowners prioritize health with their customized workout space. A luxury home gym provides convenience, privacy and access to preferred fitness options and technology. A personalized workout space allows a resident to create the environment that optimizes their performance and personal goals. Custom design affords residents the ability to design every detail of a space, right down to mirrors, flooring, windows and air flow.
Affluent homes have a distinctive element of function luxury and style. Most importantly, as with every home, it is the place to create memories with loved ones. It is always best to craft a home around an individual, couple or family’s lifestyle and priorities.
Author: As a Founding Partner at RETSY, one of the fastest growing technology-based real estate brokerages in Arizona, Mary Grassl brings an incredible range of experience. An Arizona native who grew up in Scottsdale and who now resides in Paradise Valley, Mary’s career spans more than 25 years and two major markets—Arizona and New York City, where she gained invaluable expertise while thriving in a fast-paced, competitive real estate environment. Creative, dedicated and incredibly hardworking, Mary is a top producer, with a sales volume that exceeds $300 million in new residential development.
