The Quiet Features That Signal a Well-Built Property

If you’re like most people, you probably have a friend or family member who works in real estate.

And you marvel at how they have the perfect phrase to put a positive spin on any property–no matter how unattractive it may be.

“Cozy” is the word for a house that is painfully small.

“Quaint” is the preferred term for a property that is horribly impractical.

“DIYer’s dream” is a nice way of saying the home is currently unlivable.

To cut through the smoke and euphemism overload, it is important to equip yourself with a discerning eye. Keep reading as we explore the intricate details that are the hallmarks of a well-built house.

Future-Proofing Efforts

Life comes at you fast.

This is underscored in the real estate industry. The must-have features of our parents’ generation–ahem, sunken living rooms, glass brick walls, mustard wallpaper–are woefully tacky in today’s market.

To avoid a scenario where dated features bog down a home, greater attention is being given to future-proofing. As the name implies, future-proofing is the process of designing properties that are adaptable to changing trends, needs, and regulations.

When looking into future-proof properties, don’t get blown away by lavish accents. Stick to the basics. Is the kitchen functional? Is there enough thermal insulation to promote energy-efficiency efforts? Are common spaces versatile enough for a wide range of configurations?

One area to be extra discerning is in the realm of technology and smart home features. On one hand, it’s true that smart features and IoT appliances are the “future” of the homeownership experience. It would be remiss to overlook this key aspect of future-proofing.

On the other hand, though, we are still people. The home is still a place to eat, bathe, and sleep. If the house is so tech-centric that it feels like you need a user’s manual to perform these basic human functions, then proceed with some caution.

Thorough Safety Infrastructure

From human crimes to natural disasters, homeowners want to feel safe and secure in their properties. While security cameras and alarm systems will undoubtedly steal the headlines when it comes to home safety, there are some more subtle design features that can fortify the home against all types of threats:

• Adequate lighting – not only does exterior lighting detract potential trespassers, but interior lighting helps ensure the safe use of space at all hours
• Fire-resistant roofing – materials like metal and composite shingles are increasingly popular in this era of unprecedented fires
• Fortified windows – innovative hurricane-grade storm windows provide next-level protection from intense winds and projectile impact

Not only will homes with elite safety features enhance the sense of comfort in your own confines, but they may lead to more favorable insurance premiums as well.

Next-Level Noise Mitigation

People are spending more time at home than ever before.

Remote professionals. Online education. Digital content creators.

A tranquil home environment is no longer a simple creature comfort–it’s an essential component of daily productivity.

The problem is that there are just so many factors that can make the home noisy and distracting. Multi-generational living arrangements, overbuilt subdivisions, and clamorous severe weather events are among the myriad challenges to a peaceful home.

The good news is that there are some next-level sound mitigation features that can be adroitly implemented throughout the home. Acoustic wall panels add sound-absorbing mass to the walls and help keep noise local to its origin. A soundproof door can be added to home offices and bedrooms for optimal tranquility in these areas. Window trim not only provides a key element of visual contrast, but it can also keep air from whistling through small gaps in the window-to-wall transitions.

Subtle Energy Efficiency Features

There is nothing wrong with taking pride in an energy-efficient house. However, many people prefer the aesthetics of a home to those of a science lab.

Fortunately, there are numerous ways to subtly boost sustainability. Insulation is an obvious place to start, as it boosts R-value while being hidden in the walls, ceilings, and below-grade areas of the home. Sleek wall mounted fans increase ventilation and zone cooling for reduced reliance on air conditioning without being the focal point of an entire room like some ceiling fans. Low-E windows are virtually indistinguishable from standard double-pane options but offer superior thermal properties to block unwanted warming during the summer months.

Strategic Exterior Development

It is well-documented that exteriors are a key component of modern properties. The rise in biophilic sensibilities and the need for a change of scenery amid more time at home are just a couple of the factors that have homeowners looking outdoors.

When assessing exteriors, however, it is crucial to determine whether or not they have been strategically built. A stunning outdoor kitchen will be severely underutilized if it does not have adequate shading. Pristine landscaping should have superior fencing and fence gates to tie it together and keep errant wildlife from loitering in. Decks without the appropriate railing are not only dangerous, but can detract from views of the surroundings.

The Intricate Details Makes All the Difference in Well-Built Homes

There are countless ways to positively spin a property. However, it takes a keen eye to separate the meaningful features from the fluff. From meticulous future-proofing to strategic exteriors, consider any of the tips listed above to identify well-built properties. For more of the latest trends in real estate and home improvement, explore the content
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Author Bio

Brian Jeffries is a freelance writer who loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on construction projects and materials. He lives in Winter Park, Florida where he enjoys spending time with his wife and working on projects in his spare time. Brian’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.