Home-buying trends reveal how buyers' priorities – and the definition of an ideal community – continue to evolve. The signals this year are mixed. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) June 2026 Existing-Home Sales report found housing supply is up slightly from the month before, and its Housing Affordability Index rose – driven mainly by wage growth outpacing home-price growth rather than prices falling. The Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies takes a more cautious view in its 2026 State of the Nation's Housing report, describing overall activity as subdued, even as new construction slowly chips away at supply shortfalls. Against that backdrop, home-buying trends show buyers are looking beyond the suburban-versus-urban debate and focusing on the communities that deliver the best combination of lifestyle and affordability.
Suburban Home-Buying Trends
Condominiums have long been a great housing option, especially in urban areas, and today's upscale amenities are only increasing buyer demand. With luxury features and a plethora of services, the modern condo has become much more than just a living space – it is a curated experience offering the perfect blend of convenience, community and entertainment.
Full-Service Living
Condos are evolving into all-in-one complexes that cater to multiple lifestyle needs. This means concierge services that go beyond the basics – think personal shopping, luxury salons, at-home dining delivered from on-site restaurants and even event planning. In a fast-paced world, the gift of time is invaluable, making these convenient sought-after amenities ideal for busy residents.
Health and Wellness Centers
Today's condo residents don't just desire gyms – they're looking for wellness sanctuaries. Stan...
This story originally ran in the Spokesman Review on May 11th, 2023 here
Bob Tomlinson, who recently turned 76, winters six months a year in Arizona and no longer is actively involved in managing the Tomlinson Family of Companies real estate brokerage he helped develop into a major enterprise here over five decades.
It would be wrong to assume, though, that he now is content to bask in the Southwest warmth and leave all his former business ventures and holdings in the hands of others. Tomlinson retains some commercial building ownership interests here, including with former business partner NAI Black CEO Dave Black. He also is continuing to pursue land-acquisition opportunities aimed at creating more lots for new homes throughout the Inland Nort...

Coldwell Banker Tomlinson has been ranked as the top Coldwell Banker franchise in Washington in the 2022 Company Rankings Report, released by Coldwell Banker. Coldwell Banker Tomlinson ranked #1 for both Units Sold and Adjusted Gross Commission Income (AGCI) in Washington for the 2022 calendar year.
"We are thrilled to be recognized for our agents' hard work and commitment to the industry," said Bob Van Allen, President of Coldwell Banker Tomlinson. "This accomplishment is a testament to our team's dedication and passion for serving our clients with the highest level of training, service and professionalism."
Coldwell Banker Tomlinson has continuously been ranked as one of the leading Coldwell Banker franchises in the nation. The company offers a wide range of services including residential real estat...