A recent MSN real estate article discussed what will be 'in' and what will be 'out' when it comes to future home upgrade considerations. The list goes on as follows:
IN: The Destination Bathroom: People want a tranquil get away and anymore the last door with a lock in a house is the bathroom (which is one of the reasons I spend an inordinate amount of time in the tub!) I'm seeing bathrooms with phones, televisions, and fireplaces, and people seem to be drawn to homes with bathrooms like this.
IN: The 'Smart' House: Everything electric operated wirelessly and/or by remote; the lights, the blinds, etc.
IN: Outdoor Living Spaces: including exterior lighting, artwork treated to stand the elements, gazebo's and ornate landscaping.
IN: Glam Furniture: IKEA is out, baroque is BACK!
IN: Concealed Appliances: those that blend with the cabinetry. Stainless steel is overused in many instances and there is a return to a more natural and less stark look.
IN: Home Elevators: appeal to aging baby boomers and are a novelty not in high supply
IN: Bolder color palettes: we are moving ever further away from white and 'real estate beige' walls.
OUT: Living Rooms?? Who knew, this one surprised me but according to the article 'great rooms' have the most mass appeal, in other words, kitchens that are essentially incorporated into the living space.
OUT: Dark stains on wood, ceiling beams, and decking. Even Maple (blech!) is making a comeback!
OUT: Decorative Tiles: obviously.