Sweet Home Chicago - Trends for 2021

Home Office Space

Creating a functional, comfortable home office is becoming a necessity for Chicagoans. With so many people continuing to work remotely, the home office requests from buyers is booming!  Whether you plan to purchase new or remodel your current space, it’s a good idea to keep in mind this new trend. 

Classroom Study Space 

Creating a functional, comfortable "classroom" and study space for remote-learning students has also become a pretty big issue for Chicagoans. We just don’t know how long our kids are going to be learning from home. There is also a concern that we may face some future pandemics that will cause our in-home learning to happen repeatedly. 

With this in mind, seeking larger homes to accommodate home offices, sometimes for 2 adults and learning spaces for children is becoming a new housing trend for 2021. It’s an interesting change of events, considering that the trend was to go smaller among millennials just a few years ago. 

New Outdoor Spaces

Creating outdoor spaces for entertaining friends and family members has been another popular trend. Adding outdoor heaters on porches and in yards, and adding a fire pit has been a great way to continue to gather with people while social distancing.  Nice lighting and comfortable outdoor furniture is on the rise too. 

Outdoor Walks 

Since friends cannot meet in a coffee shop or at one's home the old-fashioned outdoor walk has come back in style. A new pair of walking shoes, and a nice walking trail have been top of mind for many Chicagoans, and will most likely continue in 2021 – especially as the weather warms up. 

Home Purchases

Interest rates have reached an historic low which is giving buyers the opportunity to purchase that larger home that they need. 

Sellers have been fortunate because buyers are looking for a more Covid-accommodating home with more space for offices & learning spaces and more outdoor space.  It’s actually a great time for both sellers and buyers in 2021.

Covid Puppies 

Have you heard about Covid puppies?  Now that more people are home they are able to meet training needs and let out the puppy and walk the him/her more frequently. It also adds companionship for people who may be lonely while sheltering at home.  This is a wonderful trend, especially children who are more socially isolated than in pre-Covid days.  Also, you must admit that a dog seems to fill out the family, making home life more complete.