If you’re a member of the Millennial Generation, adults aged 18-35 and also known as Generation Y, studies are showing that your housing preferences are very different than those of your parents.  Instead of sprawling “McMansions” or cookie cutter homes, you tend to like the homes that require a little tender, loving care where you can put your own personal stamp of ownership on it.  You want your home to be a true reflection of you and to support your tech-driven lifestyle in both comfort and space.

You are the next big demographic of home buyers and the Real Estate market is scrambling to learn what you need and want with home ownership in today’s market.  Using technology to find your new home is only one piece of the puzzle that Realtors must use to connect with you; the home itself must have smart technological capabilities that can be developed to create the perfect atmosphere for you as a Millennial.

If you’re a Millennial, this list of preferences should meet with your approval for homeownership.

1.    You want a fixer-upper instead of a home that needs only a few repairs.

2.    You want to entertain in your home without all of the upgrades.  In a survey, 59% of you would rather have extra space in the kitchen for a TV instead of a second oven.

3.    You want technology to be an integral part of your home.

4.    Each room in your home must have a purpose.  You’d rather have a dining room than a home office and a home theatre instead of a living room.

5.    You want energy efficient washers and dryers, security systems, and smart thermostats.

Focusing less on curb appeal and more on making your personal space just that—personal, is a direct requirement of Gen Yers.  You would prefer to engage in a do-it-yourself project than having a handy man or contractor do that work for you.  In fact, on your list of must-haves for home ownership is the latest wiring and technology to accommodate your electronic devices with which you work and communicate.

The desire for a smart home instead of a luxury home as well as a smaller, more functional version of your parent’s home is sure to impact the Real Estate dramatically in years to come.  You want your home to reflect your own lifestyle and the qualities that you deem important in the whole scheme of life. When your mantra is “don’t promise me a rose garden; tell me the home can automate irrigation when the ground is dry,” the housing market must accommodate your personal demands with efficiency and effectiveness. 

As a Millennial, you want fewer frills and more honest to goodness down-home appeal that suits your lifestyle and the person that you are becoming.  So tackle your fixer-upper and make your mark on the world that is more personal and meaningful to you.