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Since this generation has grown up with technology , most millennials expect technology to be integrated into every aspect of their lives — including their homes . They want the ability to “ control home features , such as temperature , security or audio / visual , from their smartphones ,” according to Pinel . But don ’ t discount your home furnishings either , adds Pettingell : “ When you are watching the latest , curved 84-inch television , big comfortable couches are a must !”
2 . Focus on flooring
Area rugs are becoming a thing of the past . Survey participants agreed . They prefer to see hardwood fl oors or glossy concrete . In Longboat Key , this is very much the case , says Pettingell : “ Wood , at least 5-inch planks and probably wider , with natural fi nishes are very popular . Oversized stone is also still big , at least 18 x 18 , but more likely 24 x 24 . Bigger is better .”
To appeal to millennial homebuyers searching for that perfect luxury property , real estate agents have a range of home staging tactics at their fi ngertips . But will these tricks of the trade win over millennials ?
We conducted a simple “ millennial home buyer ” survey to answer just that , and asked 20 millennials questions pertaining to their décor preferences . We then compiled some of the most interesting results and turned them into a list of seven important tips .
In inland locales like Winter Park , real estate agents are seeing increased demand for low-maintenance fl ooring products , such as wood-look tile .
“ The newer tile product that looks like wood fl ooring has become extremely popular due to the enhanced look and especially the durability ,” says Pinel .
1 . Mixing makes magic
When asked to describe their style as either traditional , modern or both traditional and modern elements designed in a tasteful way , nearly all survey participants eagerly circled the third option . Pinel ’ s experience in the Winter Park area supports that view : “ Transitional with a contemporary element has been popular among millennials .”
Pettingell has also witnessed a shift toward mixed styles in his market .
“ The look for millennials is coastal contemporary ,” he says . “ It ’ s island — think West Indies — mixed with contemporary . Lots of glass , high ceilings , wood fl ooring , often metal roofs and always the most open fl oor plan possible .”
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6 | Homes & Estates | Florida Collection