Are new construction masters on the 1st floor more desirable?

[Kris Haskins]

Hey BP, I'm getting into new construction and I'm curious if it will be more desirable to build a 4bdrm house with the master on the first floor?  Seems like more guys are doing the standard great room, kitchen, dining room and or din on the first floor, then all bdrms on the 2nd floor with master suite.   My thoughts are to build new, but have a niche market that's looking for something just a little different, perhaps...Any thoughts would be great on choosing a unique sales position on a floor plan would be great.    

[Karen Margrave]

Most people with little kids want to be on the same floor as their children. Whether 1 or 2 stories, you can do a split plan which is very popular. I'd suggest going to some model homes in your area if there are any and look at the layouts. Also, go to some Open Houses.  

What size of house are you considering building? Price range upon completion? 

We are in a high end market in Orange County, Ca, so we're able to build more expensive homes. We built a house and sold it last year that was 3045 sq. ft. 4/3 One of the bedrooms was downstairs and could be used as an office or bedroom. The other 3 were on 2nd floor. The master was at the front of the house with a small study adjoining it. There was a loft area in the mid section, and to the back of the house were 2 bedrooms. We sold it for $1,625,000. 

We are just finishing a 3400 sq. ft. house. 4/4. One bedroom downstairs, 3 up. The master is separated from the other two bedrooms by a laundry room, and a linen closet, plus a recessed entry. At the opposite end of the upstairs from the master is a loft area that overlooks the greatroom. We have this one listed at $2,150,000. It has a rooftop deck and ocean views. 

We have also built subdivision homes in another area in the mid $300,000's. There were 2 plans with split bedrooms. A 1592 sq. ft. plan and a 1936 sq. ft. plan, with very well laid out kitchens. 

No matter what price range you are in, people want functional, efficient space. Open concept plans, which means planning for storage where you can find it, and good traffic flow.