I have to admit, I’m kind of a sucker for lists of what is supposedly in and what’s out. I ran across just such a list recently at the National Association of Realtors' online magazine, which pulled the items from a survey done by Mark Nash of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate in Chicago.

Here are some of what the poll said is in and out, plus my take. Let me know what you think.

IN
Reduced carbon footprint. How your home and you impact the earth matters to more buyers who want a home that lets them save energy and lessen their contribution to global warming. DW: Green couldn’t be bigger right now. The challenge is knowing what truly saves energy and/or is the more environmentally responsible way to go.

Outdoor living: Massive fireplaces, outdoor kitchens and under-patio heating to extend the season are not just for the Sun Belt anymore. DW: The Northwest doesn’t seem all that well-suited to outdoor living for at least half the year. But I’d like to know what you’ve done, if anything, to make your outdoor space more livable. And do you actually use it?

Floating homes: Not your father’s houseboat, these nonmobile homes are basically ranch houses sitting on stationary barges in a lake or river. DW: I like the concept. Anyone seen homes on barges or lakes around here?

Home elevators: Even builders of mid-priced homes are adding this essential for boomers wanting to age in place. DW: I saw the ability to add an elevator recently touted as a big plus for a new-construction house but thought it was more of a luxury item than something you’d see in a mid-priced home. So boomers, is this an amenity you’re looking for?

Pet showers: Clean pets mean clean homes, and who wants to mess up the bathtub when this feature can be a part of the garage or mudroom? DW: This item seems a little ridiculous. But, then again, I don’t have a dog. If it was called “the place we wash the dog” rather than a “pet shower,” I might be more inclined to go along with it.

Bathroom suites: Whether it’s multiple flat-screen TVs or a mini fridge and cappuccino maker, you’ll soon have a whole home inside this one room. DW: OK, I’m all for a sizable bathroom as part of a bedroom suite, but I can wait to exit the bathroom for my morning cappuccino. Same goes for the mini-fridge – not the setting I prefer for chilled food/drinks.

OUT
Living rooms: The incredible shrinking parlor has ceased to exist in some homes. DW: I guess the utility of a living room comes down to how you use it. If you’re lucky enough to have other rooms that serve as gathering spots, then I can see why the living room wouldn’t be a great use of space. But I have plenty of friends and family with lovely living rooms that have been the setting for lots of good conversation, glasses of wine and time spent together.

Tiny balconies: Room for only one chair is worthless; balconies must now function for entertaining too. DW: Couldn’t agree more. I don’t see much use for an outdoor space that can barely contain two people and what they’re sitting on. Doesn’t need to be huge, but let’s make room for at least four and maybe a barbecue.

McMansions: Could it be that “small is beautiful” finally is gaining traction? DW: This fits well with the downsizing that supposedly draws boomers to condos and cottage-type living that was the subject of this recent post.