Homebuyers' needs are changing in COVID-19 pandemic, real estate agents say

VANCOUVER, Wash. (KATU) — Realtors say home sales are up in Southwest Washington, and people are looking for different things in a house than they were this time last year.

"It’s okay if you’re not super close into the metropolitan area, because if we are going to be continuing to work from home — and that’s something you’re able to do — the necessity of travel time is not as much of an issue,"Brandy Pettet said.

Staff at New Tradition Homes said new construction is increasingly popular, too. Normally they sell around 250 homes in a year. This year, they're almost on track to hit that mark by the end of the summer.

"I think there is probably something really appealing about the thought of a brand-new home that no one has ever lived in. I think people are thinking a lot more about health and new-construction homes are built healthier than a used home. I think that’s playing a big part in it," Laura Hanson said.

More families are also opting for multi-generational homes, with multiple families moving in together.

"You can do that now where you build a separate-but-together living quarters. I think families are kind of re-evaluating their priorities these days and really wanting to spend more time together," Hanson said.

Buyers are seeking out different layouts this year than what's become the trend. Builders said people are less interested in open-concept plans.

"Since we know that everyone is at home together, I think something that has really been thought about is, 'How are we going to make this a quiet space? How am I going to take a meeting here?' People are really thinking about that when we’re touring homes," Pettet said.

KATU also spoke with realtors in Portland. Agents there said inventory is also low, and that many buyers are making outdoor space a bigger priority.