Builders get in touch with their feminine side

Ohio real estate news has largely been bad news in the last year, from foreclosures to plummeting homes sales and a lull in new home construction.

But this spring is bringing some good news. A new type of home is getting a lot of foot traffic.

The building community is shifting its focus to women, and a concept called "women-centric" homes. "A woman centric home is about storage, flexible living, entertaining and de-stressing," said Bunny Dennison, Vice President of Reflection Homes. She and her partners have brought the women-centric concept to Northeast Ohio, recognizing that women make 91% of the home buying decisions.

"We sit down with potential homebuyers and find out what their lifestyle is all about and then we design our homes to fit those needs," said Dennison. Using a think tank of women, builders have tapped into their feminine side, creating homes that have more than just a few women-friendly features. Those features include a pet wash bay in the garage, and a rear foyer that serves as a drop zone for cell phones, bags, and outdoor wear.

Surveys found women love natural light, so the women-centric home features lots of windows. And to get those laptops out of the bed, a "pocket office" off the bedroom is another feature. But that office can be transformed into other rooms, such as a sewing room, extra closet, or even an extension of the kitchen pantry.

The master bath offers his and her sinks. And for "her" a small cabinet where hair dryers can remain plugged in, but out of sight. The shower offers two shower heads. One that is handheld, allowing women more comfort when shaving their legs.

Like many new homes, the kitchen is open, allowing conversation to continue between the dining and living area. The open kitchen also helps hide countertop appliances, and garbage cans.

New home owner Joyce Hone fell for the pantry. "It's just really designed for the needs of a woman," says Hone.

The design may be "women-centric" but that doesn't mean men don't love it too.

"It has a 3 car garage, which I am interested in. And there is a big enough area in the basement for a workshop so there are all those areas. Even though, it was designed primarily for women," says new home owner Jerry Hone.

Flexibility is also a big feature. Second and third bedrooms can accommodate growing kids, or are also accessible as in-law suites.