Untitled1It used to be called the “Till Decorating Do Us Part” syndrome. Couples building a home together can have such differences in how to get to the finish line, that sometimes it causes a real rift in a relationship. But with a little inside information, and an open mind as to why the extra garage is so important to him – and understanding her thoughts about timesaving design – couples can work together to create an environment that makes everyone happy.

There’s no doubt men and women view their homes differently, often in more ways than one. For the most part, however, it’s a ‘big picture’ concept that needs reconciling, and here’s why.

More often than not, the woman is the engine that keeps things in the home organized and efficient. She’s the driving force that gets the kids up and off to school, runs errands before and after work, and plans ahead to make sure the soccer schedules are met and there’s always something available for dinner. They know that thoughtful designs make it easier to keep it all running smoothly with minimal effort. That equates to floorplans that flow easily, sufficient storage space, and convenience features in the kitchen and laundry rooms. A functional, easy-to-maintain environment – that’s not too much to ask for, right? Other ‘big picture’ items for women includes visual appeal that’s easy to maintain; the quality of schools, community amenities, and the surrounding neighborhood.

To be fair, it’s not that men don’t want those things, too. (Strictly looking at generalities as they pertain to gender preferences here.) It’s more often that their minds are focused on other things. His thought that “Man, that 3rd car garage is where I can put the work bench I’ve always wanted” can easily conflict with hers that is “Great! Now we can park both cars in the garage and still have the storage space we need!” Men also place importance on a great space for the TV, where they can watch the game in comfort with friends and family. Even having space for a pub or pool room could be something they’ve always wanted. After all, we’re all social animals – and there’s a reason that the term “man cave” has even come into existence.

Men also tend to focus more on ‘cost’ rather than ‘value’ – as any woman who has put together her ‘dream upgrade list’ has surely come face-to-face with. <insert grin here!> For her, convenience equals value – so if a feature will make life easier, it’s worth it. On second thought, some things may never change.

But in building a new home – as in building and maintaining a relationship – seeing things from the other person’s viewpoint never hurts, and often helps. So take the time to find out what’s important to each other, then try shopping for your new home from that other viewpoint. You may be surprised at what you discover along the way!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!