The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed the way we work, and even as offices reopen, remote work remains a permanent fixture in many industries. This shift has not only impacted workplace dynamics but also has had a profound effect on housing preferences across the globe. With more people working from home, the traditional criteria for selecting a home are evolving.

In this blog, we explore how remote work is shaping housing preferences and why homebuyers are now prioritizing factors such as space, location flexibility, and amenities in ways they never have before.

The Remote Work Revolution

Before 2020, remote work was often seen as a perk for certain professions or roles. However, the pandemic forced businesses to rapidly adopt remote work policies, and many employees found they could perform their jobs just as efficiently (if not more so) from home. According to a 2023 Gallup poll, 45% of full-time U.S. workers are still working remotely at least part of the time, and the demand for remote work options continues to grow.

As a result, the home environment has become more integral to people’s daily lives. Many individuals no longer need to be near city centers, leading to significant shifts in where and how they choose to live.

Key Housing Trends Driven by Remote Work

1. The Search for More Space

One of the most noticeable shifts in housing preferences is the increasing demand for larger homes. Pre-pandemic, many people opted for smaller, more affordable properties, often in urban areas close to their workplaces. However, with remote work, the need for dedicated spaces to work from home—whether that’s a full home office, a guest room, or a basement conversion—has skyrocketed.

• More space for home offices: Homebuyers now prioritize properties with rooms that can be dedicated solely to work, even if it means sacrificing proximity to a city center.

• Larger family homes: With more people at home, families are seeking larger homes to accommodate multiple workstations, learning spaces for children, and extra room for comfort.

A report by Zillow revealed that homes with four or more bedrooms saw a 10% higher demand in 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels.

2. Suburban and Rural Areas Gaining Popularity

Before remote work became mainstream, city centers were often the preferred choice due to proximity to offices, public transport, and cultural amenities. However, with the rise of remote work, many professionals no longer need to live in densely populated urban areas.

• Suburban migration: Many homebuyers are seeking out suburban neighborhoods, where they can get more space for their money, better schools, and access to parks and nature.

• Rural retreats: There has also been a growing trend of individuals moving to rural areas or less densely populated regions, where they can enjoy peace, tranquility, and more affordable housing, all while maintaining the flexibility of working remotely.

A 2023 survey by Realtor.com revealed that nearly 40% of homebuyers in the U.S. considered moving to less expensive areas due to the rise of remote work, with many choosing properties far from major metropolitan hubs.

3. The Need for High-Speed Internet and Technological Infrastructure

As work-from-home has become the norm, high-speed internet and reliable tech infrastructure have become top priorities for homebuyers. Areas with poor internet connectivity or limited access to technology infrastructure are increasingly being avoided by those looking to work remotely.

• Gigabit internet access: Buyers now prioritize homes in locations that offer high-speed fiber optic internet and adequate bandwidth for video calls, file sharing, and other work-related tasks.

• Smart home tech: Demand for homes with smart home technologies—from video conferencing-friendly lighting to automated climate control—is also rising. These features make remote work more comfortable and efficient.

4. Flexible Floor Plans and Multi-Use Spaces

The need for multi-functional living spaces has never been more apparent. Many buyers are now seeking homes with open floor plans or adaptable spaces that can serve multiple purposes.

• Home offices: Dedicated workspaces have become a must-have for remote workers, especially those who need privacy and focus during their work hours.

• Flexible living areas: Homeowners are investing in spaces that can double as a guest room, workout area, or even a place for online learning or virtual meetings.

Homes that feature multi-purpose rooms or areas that can easily be transformed into workspaces have become more attractive to remote workers looking for flexibility.

How Remote Work Is Changing Real Estate Development

As remote work continues to shape housing preferences, developers and real estate agents are adjusting their strategies to meet the evolving needs of homebuyers.

1. Building in the Right Locations

Developers are increasingly building homes in suburban or rural areas where there is demand for more space but still within reasonable proximity to urban centers. For example, many homebuyers still want to visit their office or enjoy city amenities occasionally, so properties located within a short drive of metro areas are now highly sought after.

• Master-planned communities: Developers are also creating master-planned communities that offer a balance between suburban tranquility and modern amenities like co-working spaces, recreational facilities, and public transportation access.

2. Designing Homes with Remote Work in Mind

New construction homes are now being designed with remote work in mind. Many new homes include features like:

• Soundproof home offices to ensure a quiet workspace

• High-speed internet wiring and tech-friendly designs

• Dedicated workspaces that are separate from the living areas to promote a work-life balance

The Long-Term Impact of Remote Work on Housing Preferences

The effects of remote work on housing preferences are expected to last well beyond the pandemic. As companies continue to embrace flexible work arrangements, the demand for homes with more space and remote-friendly features will remain strong.

• Work-life integration: With more people working from home, the distinction between “work” and “life” is becoming more blurred. This has led to an increased desire for homes that offer better work-life integration and well-being—such as outdoor spaces, quiet environments, and home amenities that promote health and productivity.

• Second homes and vacation properties: With remote work allowing for more flexibility, some professionals are even investing in second homes or vacation properties in places that offer scenic beauty and a healthier lifestyle, all while being fully connected via technology.

Final Thoughts: The New Normal in Housing Preferences

As remote work continues to evolve, it will inevitably continue to influence housing preferences in the years to come. Homebuyers are now prioritizing space, location flexibility, and functionality more than ever before, leading to significant changes in the types of homes being built, bought, and sold.

If you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate in this new era of remote work, understanding these shifts in housing preferences is crucial. Remote work isn’t just a passing phase—it’s reshaping the housing market for good.