Looking for more advice? Check out Inman’s New Agent Essentials.
American housing styles have changed, and continue to change, throughout the country and as homeowners’ tastes and lifestyles have evolved. As the country has undergone industrial and economic changes, both good and not so good, housing styles have adapted out of necessity.
In this new series, I will walk you through the predominant housing styles of the past 12 decades, beginning in 1900. A basic understanding of each architectural style that defines a decade will position you as a knowledgeable agent with your clients and make searching for a home with your buyers easier for everyone.
The ability to converse with both sellers and buyers about home styles and historical periods is extremely helpful in establishing rapport and offering your client a sense of confidence in your knowledge. Other topics that help to connect with clients and establish your expertise as a Realtor include local zoning laws, new bus routes, the local schools, specialty grocery stores and entertainment venues.
Some homeowners will enjoy nothing more than telling you about their quarter-sawn oak flooring, stained-glass windows and pocket doors. While it may seem excessive to dwell on brass hinges or balustrades, the vocabulary that is part of house styles, be it antique or modern, is vital to agent success.
After the excess and grandness of 1900s Victorian and Queen Anne houses, a simpler, more accessible home style…
