Modern style homes- there aren't many (Houston, Dallas: fit in, apartments, loft)

[MarknEurope]

I think over the past 2 months I've seen just about every home, on every site in the price range between 170-350k. But what I haven't seen is many modern homes. I've seen smart modern at 900k and above, but nothing for the average home buyer.

I'll use the kitchen as a point of reference since it can generally describe the overall tone & feel of the home. In most photos you see 3 varying choices of wood cabinetry, earthtone colors and black appliances if you're lucky. There are of course a few other things that all of these tract homes offer to make you feel that you're truly getting something different, but you are not if you look closely. Boring!!

So.... what my wife and I really want is something with clean lines, where the majority of the appliances are hidden and it has life to it. Here's a photo of our current kitchen so you understand what I'm talkin g about.

The point I'm getting at is that I think some of the older homes that I've seen which are built in the 70's seem to have more potential for having a modern theme in place than the newer ones being built today. But I'm concerned that by choosing an older home I may be in for some unexpected repairs. Not to mention the cost of having to renovate the place.

Does anyone have thoughts on some of the more "interesting" homes that were built in the 70's?" Anything to look out for?

Thanks.

[Floridamom1970]

I happen to like retro looks myself.

While I do love the lovely homes I have seen listed in the Austin area ( on the internet) I will say that I have always loved old homes. The character is something that you just cannot find in modern homes. If it does not work out for us to return to Austin we are most likely going to end up in an older home in one of the small towns on our list. I especially love looking at pictures of the homes from the 1800s.

[masalamomma]

Mark, one word - "remodel".

What you are seeing is the standard setup all the home builders put in because it has broader mass appeal. WHy not buy a house for 300k in a great area instead of 900k, and then just remodel it in your taste.

[MarknEurope]

Originally Posted by masalamomma

WHy not buy a house for 300k in a great area instead of 900k, and then just remodel it in your taste.

Broad appeal it is. But I'm guessing that by building a new house in a 250-300k community you will not find a floor/design plan that supports a minimalist/ modern theme. Nor will you find the interior offerings that you get to pick from to be of a modern aesthetic. So the cost is quite abit more to get what you actually want, or you're just excluded from building b/c it doesn't fit in to the look of the community.

Still though.. has anyone heard of any negatives on the 70's style homes that you occasionaly find on the listings?


thanks

[austin-steve]

Does anyone have thoughts on some of the more "interesting" homes that were built in the 70's?" Anything to look out for?

As a Realtor, I can tell you that departing from what is customary and usual in a design will hurt your resale value. The central area allow a bit more leeway, but trying to get funky or "modern" in Circle C or Steiner Ranch won't work.
Steve

[masalamomma]

Austin-Steve is probably right. Like I said, the kitchens you are seeing everywhere is what most people want. I don't think I have ever seen a kitchen like yours in Austin, Houston, or Dallas. And I have been in ALOT of houses - touring model homes is one of my fav things to do. That style you like is reserved for more like loft apartments.

There is always a happy compromise though. You could do a white cabinet with black granite, maybe some funky hardware on the cabinet that is easily changeable - this white and black combo is very popular and would not hurt your resale value. I would stick with modern furniture and artwork, and leave the house more "as-is".

[plaidmom]

Have you found modernaustin.com? There is not, as you've discovered, tons of inventory, but worth bookmarking so you can keep tabs on stuff as it comes on the market.

I have seen modern kitchens in Austin, but never in "model homes". Usually on the AIA tour. The Austin chapter can be found here:

http://www.aiaaustin.org/

They can probably help steer you in the right direction if you decide to go the remodel route and need to find a suitable architect.

[MarknEurope]

Originally Posted by masalamomma

That style you like is reserved for more like loft apartments.

I think you absolutely correct. That came to me late last night when I was searching through downtown condos. Unfortunetly, not a feasible option with small kids... they need a yard.

Originally Posted by plaidmom

Have you found modernaustin.com?

I have not, and thank you for this site and the other! This is what we want.... a great architect.