New decade, new home

By April Stephens

As we enter a new decade, we find it accompanied by a lot of change.

With many diverging demographics of home buyers and sellers we are encountering one of the most interesting and exciting real estate markets in history. There has been a lot of growth in the county in the previous decade, bringing many opportunities with regards to jobs, infrastructure and homes. Johnston County is currently the third fastestgrowing county in N.C.

Buyers are getting more for their money thanks to historically low interest rates and affordable options in our area.

Looks like the secret is out about how great Johnston County is.

The increased growth has driven many new builders and developers to incorporate new styles of homes, communities and amenities to serve the new and existing residents. Johnston County now offers many walkable communities with family amenities, local dining options, organized sports and more. There has also been a need fulfilled in more rural areas of the county where buyers desire more land for a more “country” feel. Our area has done a great job of building and providing homes for residents in all walks of life.

With the new decade will come a new wave of “downsizing” home buyers. The amazing generation of baby boomers now find themselves desiring less maintenance, single-floor living and aging-in-place features. They are also looking for communities with easier access to medical and retail.

A large wave of “millennials,” or firsttime home buyers that are just starting out, seem to also be looking for “low maintenance” living with easy access to amenities and retail. This is creating many similar needs in our current market and builders are working hard to fill the void.

There is a need and increase in custom home options in our current market as well. Fortunately, Johnston County is home to some of the finest home builders in the state. Many of our local builders were born and raised in the area and take pride in using their craft to increase the beauty in our county.

Several local home builders are incorporating “green” building features, new technology and aging-in-place elements in their homes in an effort to serve those demands. The building industry also employs a large number of residents in the county.

I am sure we can all think of a contractor, plumber, electrician, etc. that works hard in our county on a daily basis.

We are confident in those in our industry and consider it an honor to serve Johnston County. Please consider “shopping local” for your new home options, renovations or home projects.

A list of our local contractors and suppliers can be found on our website, www.BuildingJohnstonCounty.org.

Save the date to see local craftsmanship on display at the upcoming Parade of Homes event which will be the first three weekends in April. Visit www.JohnstonCountyParadeofHomes.com for more information on homes that will featured.

See beautiful homes like this one during the Parade of Homes next month.