I don’t think luxury is really about impressing people the way it used to be, and I’ve watched that shift happen gradually over three decades of selling real estate in Los Angeles.
How the Definition Has Changed
Years ago, a meaningful number of my clients wanted a home that made a statement to guests — a grand entrance, an imposing façade, a room clearly designed to be shown off. Today, most of my clients are looking for something quieter: a home that feels right when nobody else is around.
It’s less about the dramatic staircase and more about the light in the kitchen in the morning. Less about a formal living room nobody uses, and more about having a genuinely comfortable spot to unwind after a long day.
Why This Shift Matters
I think this is a healthier way to approach luxury, honestly. It shifts the focus from performing for others to actually living well. For buyers, it also means looking past a home’s most photogenic features and paying closer attention to how the layout, light, and flow will feel on an ordinary day.
What to Look for Under This Lens
When I walk clients through homes now, I spend less time discussing the size of the formal spaces and more time discussing morning light in the primary bedroom, how the kitchen connects to daily life, and whether the outdoor space actually gets used. These are the details that tend to matter most once the home is no longer new.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this mean grand, formal homes are no longer desirable? They still have a market, particularly for buyers who entertain frequently. But for most of today’s buyers, that formality is a lower priority than daily comfort and livability.
How does this affect home staging and presentation? Sellers who lean into warmth, natural light, and lived-in comfort — rather than formal, showroom-style staging — tend to resonate more strongly with today’s buyers.
Is this trend consistent across price points? Yes, though it shows up differently. At every level, buyers increasingly prioritize comfort and daily usability over pure visual statement.
Rethinking What Luxury Means for You
If you’re searching for your next home, it’s worth asking yourself honestly: are you looking for something to show, or something to live in? I’m glad to help you figure out which matters more to you, and find a home that reflects it.