The Classic Home Style That Is In High Demand For Real Estate And Why

If you ask nearly half of Americans to name their favorite home style, their answer will likely be the Craftsman style home. The real estate website Trulia commissioned a survey of around 2,000 people aged 18 and older and found that 43% prefer this style, and most of those were millennials younger than 34. In Atlanta, Craftsman homes accounted for 14.2% of all listings, the highest ratio in any major city nationwide. This style also appreciates in value more steadily than any other home type. What is a craftsman-style house? Glad you asked!

Craftsman-style homes are modest, one to one-and-a-half-story homes that often fall into one of four types: bungalow, prairie style, mission revival, and American foursquare. They began popping up across the country in the late 19th and early 20th century as a reaction to mass production during the Industrial Revolution. Popular homes during that time relied heavily on new technologies and were more ornate and fussy in appearance. The Craftsman style leaned into simplicity and craftsmanship. Attention to detail defines this style and is easily seen in characteristics like built-in cabinets, low-pitched roofs, hand-carved woodwork, and exposed beams. Wide front porches with columns made of brick, stone, or wood are also a hallmark of this style. Its resurgence in popularity is similar to its development. With homebuyers facing an uncertain economy, job market, and volatile world events, Craftsman-style homes offer comfort and a hearkening back to a simpler, more community-oriented time. 

The Craftsman's emphasis on handmade craftsmanship seems to mirror millennials' obsession with DIY, which may be why the style is so popular among this generation. While previous generations were motivated to DIY for financial reasons, this generation of young homeowners is motivated by emotional factors such as a sense of accomplishment in transforming their space. There's a cultural shift toward buying less but investing in quality. While many modern home styles can seem cookie-cutter, and though Craftsman styles share similarities, these home styles offer unique charm and character. It's one of several home styles considered outdated that we should bring back for their charm. 

If you're considering buying a cute Craftsman home, be aware that while there are many pros to living in this type of home, there are also a few cons. Many of these homes are more than 100 years old, which comes with its own set of challenges. The foundations may weaken over time, so you'll want to make sure any cracks or leaks have been repaired. Also, mechanical systems such as electrical wiring and plumbing may need updating. Older knob and tube wiring is a potential fire hazard due to exposed wiring, and the metals used in older plumbing can make your water unsafe to drink. A good inspection can help identify any potential problems. You'll especially want to watch out for red flags if the Craftsman you're considering buying was a flipped house.