Home buyers prefer one-story homes of 2000 to 3500 square feet this year, according to a recent survey. Buyers prefer ranch styling, a change from 10 years ago when they preferred country style home.

Americans’ lifestyles continue to become less formal and survey respondents echoed this. More than 60 percent preferred an informal great room as opposed to having separate living, dining and kitchen areas. Ten years ago 50 percent wanted an informal great room.

Fewer consumers want a fireplace. Only 72 percent of respondents said they wanted one, as opposed to nearly 100 percent 10 years ago.

A few more results:

70 percent want a utility room next to a kitchen

77 percent want the owners suite on the main floor

71 percent want a deck or patio while 67 want a front porch

54 percent plan to build a home within the next four years

The survey was released in June and 300 people responded either online or through the mail to the questionnaire. The average age was 51 and the average household had 2.6 people. Oregon-based Associated Designs conducted the survey and developed a home design based on the results.

How do your preferences mesh with these? Do you look for the same things in a home?

August 18, 2008