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Every year, right around this time, all over the state, builders unveil showcase homes to strut their stuff. But it's also a chance for us, the consumer, to check out the latest trends in new home construction.

“Today we're building a lot of smaller homes. Greener homes. More energy efficient. That's been a big trend. This house is over 2,100 square feet so the carbon footprint is smaller. It's more efficient to heat and cool. It also has energy star appliances,” said custom home builder John Witt.

A noticeable trend in recent years has been an increase in the baby boomer market, recent retirees who are looking for a scaled-back, but luxurious home.

“We're seeing it more and more. People want higher quality, but in a smaller footprint. We achieve that through open floor plans. Homes that are a little more open although they live big. Homes with special places, little niches or places to get away so that they can have their private space,” said Witt.

Since the typical new construction customer is aging, builders like Witt are often seeing the elimination of some traditional home elements.

“Our older buyers are definitely looking for master bedrooms on the first floor. It's become a real trend. I think you're going to see that more and more. The baby boomer generation is getting older. A lot more flexibility so they can age in the house. Wider doorways and hallways and so forth,” said Witt.

When people scale back on square footage they have more money for higher end amenities. Witt reports a bigger demand for stainless steel appliances, which are Energy Star rated, quality hardwood flooring, granite counter tops and tile.