| Lowe's Reveals Results of
Home Builders' Survey
A new survey of home builders, released by Lowe's at the 2006
International Builders' Show, demonstrates one of the biggest trends in
home building is a strong focus on energy-efficient materials and
products. In fact, nine out of 10 builders surveyed say they are
incorporating energy-saving products into new homes at all price levels. "With recent fluctuations in energy prices, we are not surprised that home builders are looking beyond the cost of building the home to the homeowner's cost to operate it longer term," said David Steed, Lowe's senior vice president of merchandising. "As ENERGY STAR Retailer of the Year for three consecutive years, Lowe's understands the importance of using the most energy-efficient products possible in the home, and we are pleased to help builders, remodelers and homeowners choose products that save energy and money." Builders of low-, medium- and high-priced homes say they add energy-saving features both to help sell the home and at the customer's request. Windows and insulation, followed by doors, water heaters and furnaces are the most commonly upgraded materials for energy savings. Approximately half of builders also use energy-saving lighting. "The results of our builders survey is validation that the environmentalism trend continues to gain importance," said Melissa Birdsong, vice president of trend & design. "We feel this is a direct response to very savvy consumers who want energy efficient, low maintenance homes." In addition to energy upgrades, builders say they are also increasing the value of their properties by adding amenities that are attractive to homeowners. Smart Home technology, which is upgraded structure wiring for such uses as home computers, automated security systems and programmable lighting, continues to be popular among builders, with 57 percent including Smart Home features in 2006, compared with 34 percent in 2005. Approximately 62 percent of builders say they include special wiring. Among the most popular additions for 2006, 46 percent of builders say they will include home offices, followed by outdoor living spaces (41 percent) and elements that allow older homeowners to age in place (38 percent). Two out of three builders say they are also likely to include lower maintenance features in homes. Super garages, with storage options and finished, multi-purpose areas, are on the list for 30 percent of builders and 45 percent of builders of high-end homes. Dream laundry rooms, featuring custom cabinets, countertops and appliances are on the minds of 29 percent of builders. Least likely to be included in 2006 homes according to home builders: home theaters and finished basements, which were two of the most popular features in 2005.
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