Health in the home, by Veronika Bondarenko for Inman Connect

Health and wellness are more important to homeowners than ever before, especially as many cities and states aim to progress into the next phases of re-opening. These days, there is a high demand for antimicrobial materials in the home. Buyers are seeking finishes that are easier to clean such as unique stone surfaces rather than porous, delicate wood floors and cabinetry.

Also, we’re seeing a new trend with people desiring an “Amazon” room or “Package room” – a dedicated room to store online deliveries in large single-family homes. This functions both as storage space and a separate part of the home in which packages can sit for a few days and become “decontaminated” before any of the residents come into contact with them (coronaviruses can live on cardboard for up to 24 hours)

The demand for an Amazon room is centered around a desire to keep the home as healthy and safe as possible, and these days, that starts from the entrance of the home. Additionally, people are seeking out higher-grade filters, for both air and water, as well as smart lighting to better mimic our natural environment. With the home being our sanctuary, it is important to make it as healthy as possible.