A national survey of 2000 households (2002) revealed a vision of "smart growth that home buyers are prepared to embrace. Results of the survey conducted by the National Family Opinion polling firm indicates a majority of consumers want single-family detached homes in a pedestrian-friendly community, that has shopping within walking distance. Other findings include:

When asked to rate the importance of 16 aspects of a home and its location, "houses spread out" received the highest rating, with 62 percent of respondents checking important or very important. This was followed by less traffic in neighborhood, 60 percent; lower property taxes, 55 percent; bigger home, 47 percent; bigger lot, 45 percent; less developed area, 40 percent; away from the city, 39 percent; closer to work, 28 percent; closer to public transportation, 13 percent; smaller house, 10 percent; and smaller lot, 9 percent. 

When asked about the importance of 18 community amenities, the highest ranking features were (with percent ranking as important or very important): highway access, 44 percent; jogging/bike trails, 36 percent; sidewalks, 28 percent; parks, 26 percent; playgrounds, 21 percent, and shops within walking area, 19 percent. 

Asked to rank three alternatives for where new growth should occur, 37 percent selected "build new homes in existing, partially developed suburban areas" as their first choice and 51 percent as their second choice. "Build new homes on vacant land in the central city or inner suburbs" was the preferred choice of 35 percent and the second choice of 23 percent. "Build homes in outlying areas," was the first choice of 29 percent and second choice of 26 percent. 

Asked which single factor they would change in their home or community, "taxes would be lower" led with 35 percent, followed by "I'd live in a bigger home," 26 percent; "I'd own a larger lot," 17 percent; "my home would be closer to where I work," 8 percent; "schools would be better," 5 percent; and "other," 9 percent. (Source NAHB)

PowerPoint Presentation of Survey Results (download file)

Triangle Community Coalition www.TRICC.org