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ARTICLE EXCERPT:
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Architects’ survey reports on the amenities most sought by homeowners.

Favorite home features

The strength of the housing market has not just driven an increase in the number of homes being built and renovated, it is also influencing the design and appearance of those homes.

According to a new survey from the American Institute of Architects, the second quarter of this year remained a strong one for most of its members. More than 39 percent reported improved billings compared with the first quarter, with only 9 percent reporting lower billings.

And the future looks as bright: 42 percent of the respondents have experienced a rise in inquiries for new work during the corner and only 10 percent said they had seen fewer potential new customers.

The average architectural firm had a work backlog of 5.4 months during the first quarter, up from 5.2 months the quarter earlier.

Regionally, architects in the South report the strongest business conditions with 52 percent of architects there having more work in quarter two. Weakest was the Northeast where only 27 percent reported increased billings.

to be continued….