The Rise of the Mcmansion

<h1>The Rise of the Mcmansion</h1>Author: <a title="Kevin And Gretchen Koitz" href="http://www.articlesbase.com/authors/kevin-and-gretchen-koitz/25359.htm">Kevin And Gretchen Koitz</a> Even the nation's finest luxury neighborhoods have a category for homes that look cheaply made: McMansions. Home owners in wealthy areas like Bethesda and Chevy Chase, Maryland live in fear of having their homes classified thusly, but occasionally one gets nailed. New neighborhoods are particularly vulnerable because their homes tend to be more modern and less classical - they're also often accused of being more hastily built, although this is rarely the case. For buyers and investors thinking of entering a luxury market, taking a little time to understand exactly what makes a McMansion can help secure a much more solid investment, and make things easier when it's time to sell.

The word McMansion was first widely used during the 1980s, following a stock market boom and a period of national prosperity in the U.S., when many home owners bought and built larger homes. McMansions were also commonly seen during the peak years of the dot-com boom in the 1990s, when millions of software developers and entrepreneurs got rich and built their dream homes on the west coast. During both periods, well-established luxury areas like Montgomery County, Maryland also saw a rise in high-end home construction, and not all of it was well-received. "McMansions" quickly came to refer to large homes that were lacking in character, and often built in uniform rows through large stretches of newly deforested and developed land - this was high-end tract housing for the late 20th century.

McMansions are defined according to a subjective, yet generally consistent set of standards. Perhaps unfairly, the phrase is often applied to new large homes that aren't built in a specific architectural style, or deviate from other local styles. For example, a Queen Anne style large home built in a Phoenix suburb might be labeled a McMansion if most other homes built in this area feature Sonoran or distinctly southwest designs. Many new large homes built in classical or half-timbered European styles are labeled McMansions, although the term can certainly also be used to describe new home styles originating in other traditions.

The quality of construction materials is also often called into question with McMansions. While it's true that many of these homes are built hastily, advances in technology have also made it easier to build homes large homes more cheaply, without compromising construction quality. Pre-fabricated trusses have made it easier to build large rooms without as many walls supporting the roof, and to build flatter roofs. These designs are every bit as sound as older more complex building forms, although they look less traditional.

Other popular slang phrases to denote a McMansion include "Garage Mahal," "Beltway Baronial," "Starter Castle," and "Faux Chateau." It's hard to argue against humor like that, especially since most of it seems spot on. But it's also important to remember that many so-called McMansions are simply large homes not intended to be seen in the same light as classically styled mansions - critics may just be picking on them because they're big.About the Author: Learn more about new construction in the <a href="http://www.koitzgroup.com" target="_blank">Chevy Chase MD real estate</a> area at KoitzGroup.com. There you'll find extensive information on local homes, a real estate news section, and information on nearby communities like the <a href="http://www.koitzgroup.com/bethesda-real-estate.php" target="_blank">Bethesda MD real estate</a> area.Article Source: <a href="http://www.articlesbase.com/">ArticlesBase.com</a> - <a href="http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/the-rise-of-the-mcmansion-326428.html" title="The Rise of the Mcmansion">The Rise of the Mcmansion</a>

Even the nation's finest luxury neighborhoods have a category for homes that look cheaply made: McMansions. Home owners in wealthy areas like Bethesda and Chevy Chase, Maryland live in fear of having their homes classified thusly, but occasionally one gets nailed. New neighborhoods are particularly vulnerable because their homes tend to be more modern and less classical - they're also often accused of being more hastily built, although this is rarely the case. For buyers and investors thinking of entering a luxury market, taking a little time to understand exactly what makes a McMansion can help secure a much more solid investment, and make things easier when it's time to sell.

The word McMansion was first widely used during the 1980s, following a stock market boom and a period of national prosperity in the U.S., when many home owners bought and built larger homes. McMansions were also commonly seen during the peak years of the dot-com boom in the 1990s, when millions of software developers and entrepreneurs got rich and built their dream homes on the west coast. During both periods, well-established luxury areas like Montgomery County, Maryland also saw a rise in high-end home construction, and not all of it was well-received. "McMansions" quickly came to refer to large homes that were lacking in character, and often built in uniform rows through large stretches of newly deforested and developed land - this was high-end tract housing for the late 20th century.

McMansions are defined according to a subjective, yet generally consistent set of standards. Perhaps unfairly, the phrase is often applied to new large homes that aren't built in a specific architectural style, or deviate from other local styles. For example, a Queen Anne style large home built in a Phoenix suburb might be labeled a McMansion if most other homes built in this area feature Sonoran or distinctly southwest designs. Many new large homes built in classical or half-timbered European styles are labeled McMansions, although the term can certainly also be used to describe new home styles originating in other traditions.

The quality of construction materials is also often called into question with McMansions. While it's true that many of these homes are built hastily, advances in technology have also made it easier to build homes large homes more cheaply, without compromising construction quality. Pre-fabricated trusses have made it easier to build large rooms without as many walls supporting the roof, and to build flatter roofs. These designs are every bit as sound as older more complex building forms, although they look less traditional.

Other popular slang phrases to denote a McMansion include "Garage Mahal," "Beltway Baronial," "Starter Castle," and "Faux Chateau." It's hard to argue against humor like that, especially since most of it seems spot on. But it's also important to remember that many so-called McMansions are simply large homes not intended to be seen in the same light as classically styled mansions - critics may just be picking on them because they're big.

Learn more about new construction in the Chevy Chase MD real estate area at KoitzGroup.com. There you'll find extensive information on local homes, a real estate news section, and information on nearby communities like the Bethesda MD real estate area.

Rate this Article:

0 / 5 stars - 0 vote(s)

Re-Publish

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/the-rise-of-the-mcmansion-326428.html

Article Tags: Mcmansion, Luxury Home Sales, Maryland Luxury Homes, Beltway Baronial, Starter Castle, Faux Chateau

Related Articles
Related Q&A

Latest Real Estate Articles
More from Kevin And Gretchen Koitz

Why Buy Property in Gurgaon Now?

By: joseph | 27/11/2009
Why to buy property in Gurgaon now? This is a confusion confronting many investors in Gurgaon India. This is because of the recent slump in the property market in Gurgaon in the wake of the global economic meltdown. But in the Indian context the recessionary fall out is dying out and the property market is poised for an upward trend. This is the right time to buy property in Gurgaon. Also, there is an increased demand for middle-income level residential units in India now.

Best Investment: to Buy and Sell Gurgaon Properties

By: joseph | 27/11/2009
If you buy and sell Gurgaon properties at the right time, it will be the best investment. During the preceding quarter, Gurgaon real estate market has witnessed an unprecedented growth. If fact the property value in the region has registered higher growth than in other main centres in the locality. It is important to know the right time to buy and sell property. When there is a slump, it is better not to sell property fearing further loss.

Installing a Home Media Room

By: Roby Pagong | 27/11/2009
You are probably thinking of ways to improve the value of your property. There are tons of ways to increase its value. One of which is to have a media room. There are several benefits of having the said room. One is that you will have a place for recreation. You can watch movies with friends and family. You can play your favorite game as well as sing your heart out. This could be a great area to entertain your friends.

How to Improve Your Credit Score

By: Roby Pagong | 27/11/2009
We are all aware of how important our credit scores are. It is exceptionally important when we apply for a loan. The lender has to check it first in order evaluate if he should lend you the amount you want or not. He will base his judgment on the credit reports. You will authorize him to have a copy of this. Your score will represent your ability to pay the loan if ever you are approved.

Proper Creation of a Real Estate Note is Vital if You Ever Want to Sell

By: Steven W. Hammons | 26/11/2009
Note Creation Factors: Collateral - Collateral is one of the first things that will be looked at by any investor looking to buy a note. A Single Family Residence (SFR) will be considered the most secure property type. Vacant land o

Increasing Condo Taxes Causing More Real Estate Problems in Cities

By: Karrie Rose | 26/11/2009
With all of the foreclosed homes on the market at present—as well as homes that have already been on the market for an extended period of time—there is the very real possibility that American city’s condo markets are very soon going to be in even worse shape.

Common Inclusions in Florida Commercial Real Estate Lease Documents

By: Mark Ferrer | 26/11/2009
If you're fairly new in your business niche, you’ll probably need a little lesson in commercial leasing. And one of the most important parts of the process is to understand the inclusions of the lease document. If you're in the state looking for the right Florida commercial real estate property, be sure you know and understand the meanings of the common details of the lease. You should know that there are several other statements that might be included in your particular lease document; the foll

Turning Your House into a Miami Rental Property

By: Mark Ferrer | 26/11/2009
Homeowners who find themselves suddenly in need of moving to another location due to whatever reasons are faced with the problem of selling their home fast. This, plus the deadline they have to find the next residential property, can put tremendous pressure to anyone. Fortunately, if you're in the city and in dire need of selling your property quickly, you may want to consider turning into a Miami rental property for the meantime.

Loft Living

By: Kevin And Gretchen Koitz | 06/02/2008 | Real Estate
Loft living has become synonymous with a trendy urban lifestyle, and many developers are responding to the demand with loft-like or loft-styled options. Traditionally lofts were industrial spaces converted to residential spaces by artistic types.

The Rise of the Mcmansion

By: Kevin And Gretchen Koitz | 06/02/2008 | Real Estate
Even the nation's finest luxury neighborhoods have a category for homes that look cheaply made: McMansions. Home owners in wealthy areas like Bethesda and Chevy Chase, Maryland live in fear of having their homes classified thusly, but occasionally one gets nailed.

Questions for your Condo Quest

By: Kevin And Gretchen Koitz | 08/01/2008 | Real Estate
Imagine moving into an immaculate new home with all the modern conveniences that you've longed for. Does it bring a smile to your face? Imagine that this home comes complete with all the maintenance and upkeep taken care of. Grinning broadly?

Winter Wonderland: Spruce-up Curb Appeal With Winter Landscaping

By: Kevin And Gretchen Koitz | 27/12/2007 | Landscaping
There is a trend toward homebuyers who are attracted to year-round, outdoor visual flair. Whether you are staging your home for potential buyers, or yearning a garden that blooms forth in the winter, there are several colorful ideas for creating a winter paradise in your own backyard.

Easy Holiday Table Decor

By: Kevin And Gretchen Koitz | 27/12/2007 | Holidays
When staging your home for sale during Christmas, subtle touches can add a sense of warmth and create a more inviting atmosphere. A simple tabletop decoration can add to the holiday ambiance. The trouble is, who has the time or money to invest in a fancy centerpiece for the table?

Time is Right for Second Homes

By: Kevin And Gretchen Koitz | 10/08/2007 | Real Estate
With the current state of the real estate market the time is right for the purchase of a second home. In a slower market with lower prices and great deals on valuable home there has never been a better time to get your hands on an investment property. For many years the second home may have seemed like something that was beyond the reach of the average home buyer.

Income Suites and Primary Residences

By: Kevin And Gretchen Koitz | 10/08/2007 | Real Estate
In today's real estate market people are spending a good deal of time trying to find ways to make their primary residence pay off a little bit better. One way that this can be done is by installing or renovating an income suite. Income suites are fantastic for helping out with monthly bills, mortgage payments and are better for the safety of the home.