Florida's real estate market is on the rise amid a COVID-fueled boom. But when homebuyers flock to the Sunshine State, they bring a checklist that includes more than just sun, coast, and fun in the south.

Over the past few months, an average of 1,000 people have moved to Florida every day, causing home sales to increase more than 50% in some parts of the state.

Alistair Brown, CEO of Alistair Brown International Real Estate (ABIRE), an international real estate sales and marketing company with particular expertise in the Florida market, explains the cause of the boom.

“The pandemic has changed behaviors and ways of life in several ways, and as a result our living conditions have had to adapt.

For example, the rise in remote working, restrictions on recreational activities, and social distancing policies have all led to an increase in demand for homes outside of crowded cities that offer more space and COVID-safe amenities. Many of the high-end Florida homes offer just that. "

Migration was particularly popular with families who lived in densely populated cities prior to COVID. Given the significantly higher virus risks in these areas and the risk of future outbreaks, fleeing in the countryside seems to make perfect sense.
While some advocate permanent relocation to the state, a vacation home is an attractive investment opportunity for others - be it for domestic short breaks due to travel restrictions, or a sense of home comfort if you enjoy an extended stay with periods of self-isolation.

Regardless of the reason, however, the main motivational factor is interesting, and Alistair believes it has inspired a new list of requirements among home buyers.

“The pandemic has caused people to reassess their way of life. We all have visions and desires about how our lives should develop, and at no point have these been magnified than during the virus outbreak.

“While the threats to our health and livelihoods have been worrying, the thought of a life of unfulfilled aspirations, limitations, and increased risk has become another major problem.

“Many have accepted that the virus will not go away anytime soon and that the chances of returning to what we have known as normal are slim. Instead of living a life of regret, it is time to adjust and grant these wishes while we still can, and inspire new ones as we move into our present reality. "

But what exactly do these new wishes entail? Well, Alistair explains that they have a lot to do with the architectural design of houses.

place

“For those who have experienced lockdown restrictions in tight spaces, especially in populous cities, the need for a home with space will be greater than ever.

“Home buyers will look at the size and available space in certain areas of the home. For example, kitchens need to have enough space to cook more at home, as well as a dining area that is suitable for the whole family.

“The outside space is also becoming a priority. Whether it's a private garden, patio, or communal garden, families will be looking for homes with outdoor living spaces where they can enjoy the Sunshine State to the fullest, regardless of the COVID restrictions. "

Earmarked spaces

“One of the most important drivers of the migration trend is the increase in work from home. While it was required during the height of the pandemic, many companies and employees will choose to make the move permanent.
“As a result, home buyers will be looking for properties with purpose-built office space. These also need to be spacious rooms that can accommodate everything from desks to filing cabinets to high-speed connections.

“Home offices have to be areas that can be locked from the rest of the house. Not only does this provide privacy and minimize distractions at work, but it also allows people to properly switch off after a long day.

“Reconciling work and personal life can be incredibly difficult, especially when both are surrounded by the same four walls. Therefore, houses that allow the two walls to be separated are much more preferred. "

Sustainable living

“One coincidental impact of the pandemic was the reduced environmental impact from our restricted movement and new, minimalist lifestyles. After many realize this, they will seek ways to continue their lives with greater awareness of their actions.

“At home, this includes things like efficient energy consumption or growing your own food. To do this, the houses must of course have modern heating, plumbing and electricity systems as well as gardens in which fruit and vegetables can be grown. "

cleanliness

“While it would be wrong to assume that people lived in unclean conditions before the pandemic, the threat posed by the virus's prolonged existence on surfaces has only exacerbated people's hygiene concerns.

“This is why houses that are easy to clean or are easier to clean yourself are more in demand than those that are at risk. Take, for example, voice activated technology, which allows lights to be switched on and off or electrical devices to be stopped without manual intervention. Air conditioning is a common feature of Floridian properties, but it can be upgraded with smart technology solutions such as those provided by RespirTech.

“The new system not only cools the house, but also constantly cleans the air and surfaces using photocatalytic technology, which releases small pieces of hydrogen peroxide. Such devices will become increasingly prominent in the minds of consumers as they try to minimize physical interaction with products and systems. "
entertainment

“With risks and limitations remaining in many entertainment venues, home recreational facilities are becoming a must. This can include bar areas, private swimming pools, and home gyms to name a few.

“While community facilities are still important in satisfying our innate need for social contact, buyers are looking for properties that have more to offer at home than outside.

“More home entertainment options not only protect you from the risks associated with shared facilities, but also ensure that quarantine periods or future lockdowns hardly disrupt people's day-to-day operations.

“Ultimately, life after COVID will focus more on maximizing comfort while minimizing the potential impact of future chaos. And like most things in life, it starts at home. "

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Notes for editors

About Alistair Brown International Real Estate

Alistair Brown International Real Estate (ABIRE) is a boutique real estate advisory and creative agency that brings together the most significant properties from around the world. The team of specialists offers a diverse portfolio that focuses exclusively on the most desirable locations in the world and strives to offer only the best in high-end real estate.

Led by founder Alistair Brown, who has over 30 years of industry experience, the company has attracted some of the best real estate professionals in the industry today.

ABIRE is primarily focused on Florida and the Caribbean and has an in-depth understanding of the real estate market in each of these areas. ABIRE's longevity in the industry, successfully handling the complexities of premium real estate through creative thinking, global networking and a keen marketing approach, is a direct result of its ability to exceed customer expectations.

Read more: https://re.report/blogs/the-modern-homebuyer-and-39s-checklist-that-is-reaping-the-rewards-of-covid-19-real-estate/9129?utm_source=Media%207&utm_medium=Neethu