When buying or selling a home, architectural style can make a significant impact on the property's appeal. In 2024, certain home styles are soaring in popularity, while others are falling out of favor. Understanding these trends can help sellers better market their homes and guide buyers toward properties that align with current preferences. In this blog, we'll explore the most and least desired home styles in 2024.

The Most Desired Home Styles

1. Modern Farmhouse

The modern farmhouse continues to reign supreme as one of the most sought-after home styles. Combining rustic charm with contemporary elements, this style appeals to a broad audience, from young families to empty nesters.

Key Features:

• Open Floor Plans: Spacious interiors with minimal walls, creating a flow between living spaces.

• Neutral Colors: A palette of whites, grays, and soft earth tones that provide a clean, inviting atmosphere.

• Rustic Accents: Exposed beams, shiplap walls, and barn doors add character without overwhelming the space.

2. Mid-Century Modern

Mid-century modern homes are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, thanks to their timeless design and functional aesthetics. This style is particularly popular among younger buyers who appreciate its clean lines and minimalist approach.

Key Features:

• Simplicity: Sleek, unadorned surfaces with a focus on function over form.

• Natural Light: Large windows that bring in ample natural light and connect the indoors with the outdoors.

• Retro Elements: Vintage-inspired furnishings and decor that pay homage to the 1950s and 60s.

3. Craftsman

The Craftsman style has long been a favorite among homebuyers for its attention to detail and handcrafted quality. In 2024, this style remains in high demand, particularly in suburban and historic neighborhoods.

Key Features:

• Handcrafted Woodwork: Built-in cabinets, wood trim, and exposed beams that highlight craftsmanship.

• Covered Porches: Front porches with thick columns, creating a welcoming entryway.

• Earthy Colors: Warm, natural tones that blend with the surrounding environment.

The Least Desired Home Styles

1. Mediterranean

Once a symbol of luxury and elegance, Mediterranean-style homes have seen a decline in popularity. Buyers today often view this style as outdated, with its ornate details and stucco exteriors no longer resonating with contemporary tastes.

Key Features:

• Stucco Exteriors: Smooth, plaster-like surfaces often painted in earthy tones.

• Terracotta Roofs: Distinctive red-tiled roofs that are expensive to maintain and replace.

• Ornate Details: Heavy use of wrought iron, decorative tiles, and arches that can feel overdone.

2. Victorian

Victorian homes, with their intricate detailing and grand facades, have also fallen out of favor with modern buyers. While these homes have historical significance, their maintenance and the outdated floor plans can be off-putting.

Key Features:

• Elaborate Ornamentation: Decorative trim, stained glass windows, and gables that require significant upkeep.

• Closed-Off Rooms: Smaller, compartmentalized rooms that contrast with today’s preference for open floor plans.

• Steep Roofs: High-pitched roofs that can be costly to repair and maintain.

3. Split-Level

The split-level home, popular in the 1960s and 70s, is now one of the least desired styles among buyers. Its unique layout, with staggered levels, often feels disconnected and difficult to navigate.

Key Features:

• Staggered Floors: Multiple levels that divide living spaces, making the home feel disjointed.

• Limited Curb Appeal: Boxy, asymmetrical exteriors that lack the charm of other styles.

• Dated Interiors: Original features like wood paneling and linoleum flooring that require updating.

Understanding the most and least desired home styles can help both buyers and sellers make informed decisions in today’s real estate market. Whether you're looking to attract potential buyers or find a home that suits your preferences, being aware of these trends will give you a competitive edge.

By staying informed about what’s in demand, you can ensure your home stands out in a crowded market or find a property that aligns with current buyer preferences.

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