Several practices became a part of our lives during the pandemic and have stuck around ever since. One such practice that gained momentum during the pandemic and has remained a part of our lives is the “remote work culture”. More and more companies are letting employees work from home and now this work policy has become the new normal. 

The ripple effects of this remote work trend can be seen in different industries, including the real estate market. Yes, you heard that right! The remote work culture has shifted what buyers prefer in houses for sale in Welland and increased demand in certain areas.  

Housing Market Trends We Have Seen Because of the Remote Work Culture

1. Small and Compact Living Is Out, Spacious Living Is In

There was a time when a cosy condo apartment near a downtown area was the dream home for many. During those days, homebuyers were okay with just enough space. After all, they were spending most of their time in the office. But now? This small and compact living is no longer the trend. 

People are now looking for more space to spread out, and work-from-home is becoming the norm. They are searching for homes with dedicated office space, workout rooms, and even extra bedrooms when both partners work remotely. Some families even prioritise basements that can double as an office or a quiet escape. 

What Does This Mean for Homebuyers and Sellers?

• For buyers: If you are looking for a bigger house for sale in Welland with more space, expect a higher price. These spacious homes are in trend.
• For sellers: If you have got a spacious home, congratulations! Make sure to highlight any extra rooms, finished basements, or even potential office spaces when marketing your home.

2.Suburban and Rural Living Is in Trend

For decades, people paid a premium to live in big cities because that’s where all the jobs were. But now that many workers no longer need to be in the office daily (or at all), they are choosing to move out of the big cities. People are instead moving to smaller cities such as Welland and other suburban and rural areas. 

Why the shift in homebuying preferences? That’s because buyers can get a much bigger house in the suburbs for the same price (or less) than in the big cities. Apart from affordability, suburban areas offer peace, quiet, and a strong sense of community. 

What Does This Mean for Homebuyers and Sellers?

• For buyers: You will get more bang for your buck if you move a little further away from the big cities. However, don’t forget to check commute times for the days you need to visit the office.
• For sellers: If you own a home in the suburbs, your property might be more valuable than you think. Highlight the space and affordability compared to homes in the city when marketing.

3. A “Home Office” Is No Longer Just a Nice-to-Have – It Is a Must

When remote work first became widespread, people made do with what they had – laptops at the dining table, Zoom calls from the couch or even meetings in a walk-in closet. But now that work-from-home is the norm, makeshift setups aren’t enough. A dedicated workspace is an absolute must. 

Buyers are actively looking for houses for sale in Welland with extra rooms that can be turned into offices. And if a home doesn’t have one, that’s often a dealbreaker. 

What Does This Mean for Homebuyers and Sellers?

• For buyers: If you are working from home, don’t settle for a home without a good office space. You will thank yourself later!
• For sellers: If your home has a spare room, market it as a home office. Even staging a small room as a workspace can help attract buyers.

4. Being Close to the Office – Not a Big Deal Anymore

Back in the day, a short commute was everything. People would pay top dollar to live near their workplace just to avoid sitting in traffic for hours. Now, that mindset has changed. With fewer daily commutes, homebuyers aren’t as worried about being next to their workplace. Instead, they are focusing more on lifestyle – choosing neighbourhoods based on schools, parks, and amenities. 

Of course, some companies still require occasional office visits so people aren’t moving too far away. But overall, the pressure to live right next to work has faded.

What Does This Mean for Homebuyers and Sellers?

• For buyers: If you no longer need to live near your workplace, expand your search radius. You might find a more affordable and spacious home just 30-40 minutes away from where you originally planned to buy.
• For sellers: If your home was once considered “too far” from major employment hubs, that might not be the case anymore.

5. Outdoor Space Matters More Than Ever

When people spent all day at the office, they didn’t think much about having outdoor space at home. But now, with the remote work culture, homeowners realize how valuable a backyard, balcony, or patio can be. Whether it is for a morning coffee or a quick break between meetings, people want an outdoor space in their homes where they can unwind. 

What Does This Mean for Homebuyers and Sellers?

• For buyers: If you are buying a house, consider outdoor features like a deck, patio, or balcony. These spaces can be a lifesaver when you need a break from your desk.
• For sellers: Spruce up the outdoor area of your home. A little landscaping or a cosy patio setup can work wonders in making your home more appealing.

Remote Work Has Brought Lasting Shifts to the Housing Market

One thing is clear: remote work isn’t going anywhere, and neither are these housing market trends. As remote work continues influencing the housing market, buyers and sellers must adapt. If you are looking for your new home, make sure to keep these homebuying preferences in mind. And if you are a seller, showcase how your property can accommodate the changing demands of remote work.