Bigger Isn’t Always Better: Move-Up Homebuyers Prioritize Style and Functionality Alongside Square Footage, According to New PulteGroup Survey
New findings suggest today's move-up buyers are redefining what it means to upgrade, balancing functionality, lifestyle fit and thoughtful design and the right amount of space for their needs.
For today's move-up homebuyers, the dream of a new home doesn't necessarily mean more space. It means better space.
According to a new national survey conducted by PulteGroup among 1,325 U.S. homeowners who recently purchased their next home, a majority (51%) bought a home the same size or smaller than their previous one. Yet regardless of whether they purchased a larger, similarly sized or smaller home, 78% said their new home met or exceeded expectations. The findings suggest today’s move-up buyers are increasingly prioritizing functionality, design and lifestyle alongside square footage when evaluating their next home.
Life-stage changes are also influencing purchasing decisions. Respondents cited a major life change, such as a growing family or aging parents (25%), as the top reason for purchasing a new home, followed by feeling that the timing was right to move (24%) and needing more space (22%).
