This course is designed to teach real estate agents the basics of universal design, smart houses, and coming trends in real estate construction, as it affects construction and sales. Smart home technology appeals to different demographics for different reasons. The aging of the Baby Boomer population, coupled with advanced technology, is changing both new construction and modifications to existing housing. On the other end of the demographic chart, millennials and Generation Z behind them expect technology in every part of their lives. The pent up demand for new construction following the real meltdown and recovery, indicates there will be increased building of new homes in virtually every market. The desire for aging Americans to remain in their own homes means that builders, agents, and others in the industry will be challenged to find housing where people can age in place. Agents need to understand the demands of consumers, as well as how to demonstrate the benefits of universal design, coupled with technology, in a house, and see if it meets their clients’ needs.
This course has been approved by the MN Commissioner of Commerce for 1.5 hours of Real Estate Continuing Education.