Move-Up Homebuyers Shift Focus from Size to Functionality, PulteGroup Survey Finds
Event summary
- 51% of move-up homebuyers purchased homes the same size or smaller than their previous one.
- 78% of buyers said their new home met or exceeded expectations despite size changes.
- 25% cited major life changes as the top reason for purchasing a new home.
- 56% of buyers moved within less than a year of considering a move.
- 51% ranked the kitchen as the most valuable space post-move.
The big picture
PulteGroup's survey highlights a broader industry shift where move-up buyers prioritize functional design over sheer size, aligning with trends toward open-concept layouts and flexible living spaces. This reflects changing lifestyle needs across different age groups, particularly as younger buyers expand families and older buyers seek homes that match their evolving preferences.
What we're watching
- Design Priorities
- How the emphasis on kitchens and flexible spaces will influence homebuilder product offerings.
- Life-Stage Shifts
- Whether aging demographics will sustain demand for lifestyle-focused homes over larger properties.
- Market Adaptation
- The pace at which builders like PulteGroup can pivot from square footage to functionality in their designs.