A
new survey reveals that there's a fine line between "vintage" and "outdated" when it comes to homes, with many Americans agreeing that it's easy for a house to lose its original charm.

    The poll of 2,000 homeowners found that 83% believe a home can quickly become out-of-date. While some features like hardwood floors (56%) and ornate woodworking (37%) are still appreciated, others like popcorn ceilings (8%), root cellars (8%), and telephone nooks (8%) are less desirable.

    Interestingly, even baby boomers (39%) admit that fully carpeted homes weren't the best choice. Meanwhile, 16% of millennials are willing to give up "millennial gray," while 17% of Gen Z still likes it.

    The survey also found that younger generations have different tastes when it comes to home decor. For example, wallpaper (31%), stained glass windows (30%), and wood paneling (26%) are more popular among Gen Z than any other generation.

    Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Realty ONE Group, the survey aimed to uncover key generational differences in the home buying and owning journey. The results suggest that Americans generally prefer minimalism over maximalism (56% vs 23%), although 38% of Gen Z embraces bold colors and eclectic combinations.

    When it comes to outdoor features, having a yard or lawn (57%), a garage (54%), an outdoor space (53%), and ample parking (34%) are all highly valued across generations. However, priorities vary by age group, with Gen X prioritizing grill spaces, baby boomers valuing trees and shrubbery, and Gen Z focusing on pools and hot tubs.

    In terms of community features, safety (69%) and friendly neighbors (53%) are top priorities for most Americans. Generationally, access to shopping is tied with neighborhood friendliness for Gen Z, while millennials prioritize quality schools over shopping options.

    The survey also found that 35% of respondents purchased a home in a town or city they'd never visited before, and another 34% would consider doing so. The average time spent searching for a home was six months, with most working with a realtor to guide them through the process.

    When asked for their most valuable advice when buying their first home, respondents suggested taking one's time, focusing on needs rather than wants, and hiring an inspector before making a purchase. Ultimately, 67% of respondents believe that their current home is their "forever home."