Survey: What do relos want in a home?

NEW YORK – March 18, 2014 – What do employees relocating to a new housing market for a job look for in their next home? Cartus, a provider of domestic and global relocation services, recently surveyed 267 brokers who specialize in working with relocating employees to find out the most important home characteristics for those clients.

The top three items transferees identified as most important

• A larger home than their former residence: 70%

• New construction: 64%

• Single story: 37%

The amenities desired within the home

• Upgraded kitchen: 91%

• Master bedroom on first floor: 60%

• Finished basement: 44%• Pool/spa: 23%

• Outdoor kitchen: 11%

• Smart-home technology (such as control via phone/tablet for heat, electricity, electronics, media, security, etc.): 10%

• Media room/home theater: 7%

• Fitness room: 4%

Location preferences

• Close proximity to a specific school district

• A commute to work that is less than 30 minutes

“A job transfer is a major life change for employees and their families, and finding a home that fulfills their needs is important and enables the employee to transition to the new job efficiently and with little disruption to family lifestyles and routines,” says Gerry Pearce, executive vice president, broker and affinity services for Cartus.Source: “Home Shopping: Dream Wish List for Relocating Employees,” RISMedia (March 8, 2014)© Copyright 2014 INFORMATION, INC. Bethesda, MD (301) 215-4688