Ask The Experts – Creating Your Dream Home in 2021
Let’s be real: 2020 was a weird year. The pandemic presented a lot of challenges at work, at home, and in public, but it also allowed many people to focus in on what mattered most in their lives. And for so many of us, “what matters most” turned out to be our homes and families. Most people are heading into 2021 with a new view on how we use our spaces.
One of the big changes we saw was in the real estate market itself. As the year went on, the market heated up rapidly, properties getting snatched up quickly as people looked for more space or homes that would better suit their needs.
That’s likely to continue this year, according to Jill Butler, CEO of RedKey Realty Leaders. “Interest rates on mortgages will most likely remain low, but they will slowly increase along with home prices as the year progresses. The most exciting shift in real estate is the continued growth in first-time home buyers that are finally ready to take the plunge. The low interest rates we’ve been seeing, along with the fact that everyone is spending more time at home, have encouraged people to consider buying for the first time.”
Jeff Lottmann, Founder of Lottmann Realty Group, concurs. “We haven’t yet overcome all of the challenges brought by the pandemic, but as vaccines roll out and our economy recovers, I predict that the housing market will continue to remain competitive – favoring sellers – throughout 2021. Since homebuyers have had to compromise more of their wants due to lower inventory, it will be exciting to see new renovations and updates popping up in older properties.”
Renovations and remodeling will likely be the name of the game for many homeowners. “2020 completely changed the way we use our spaces. Staying home has made people seek out more functional, adaptable, and organized designs for their homes,” say Keith and Jeanne Liston, owners of Liston Design and Build.
“Features like large kitchen islands and integrated storage solutions in both kitchen and bathroom remodels allow for less clutter and more room for function. We’ve worked with many clients to finish or remodel their basements, and it’s always exciting to turn that additional space into a new home office, home gym, entertainment room, or multi-functional space that has a little something for the whole family.”
Indoor space isn’t the only area likely to see changes in the coming year. “People are investing more in their homes, and especially in outdoor living spaces that can be used as a place to safely distance and entertain,” says Tony Frisella, Jr, Owner of Frisella Outdoor Lighting & VP of Sales at Frisella Landscape Group.
“People are spending more time at home. They’re looking to create all-purpose spaces that let them enjoy being outside whenever possible. Outdoor lighting can really change the feel of a property – it helps to extend that feeling of ‘home’ from the indoors to the outdoors. The right lighting flows from your home into your landscape, illuminating trees, bushes, and plantings to feel like a cohesive part of your entertainment and relaxation space.”
The team at Frisella Landscape Group definitely sees the trend continuing into 2021. “Firepits, outdoor kitchens, bistro lighting, hardscapes and seating areas – our customers are focusing on how they can change their landscape to create more outdoor living space and extend their time outdoors. Whether it’s relaxing or entertaining, daytime or evening, they see their landscaping as another way to enjoy their home and time with their family all year round.”
Whatever you need to make your home dreams a reality in the coming year, you’ll be in great hands with any of these St. Louis home professionals.
Jeff Lottmann & Keith and Jeanne Liston photos provided by The Scout Guide / Joan Fisher