Why Builders Are Adding Gym Rooms to Floor Plans

In this episode of The Housing Economy, Lucas and Luna explore the growing trend of homebuilders adding dedicated gym rooms to new floor plans. With mortgage rates around 6.48% and median home prices at $403,200, builders are competing on amenities rather than price. Lucas explains how companies like Lennar and Pulte are rolling out 'wellness suites' — flexible spaces with rubber flooring, ventilation, and wall-mounted TV mounts — as a way to differentiate in a cooling market. Luna notes that the trend mirrors the post-pandemic home office boom, but with a twist: builders are now targeting younger buyers who prioritize fitness over square footage. They discuss data from the National Association of Home Builders showing that 34% of new homes in 2025 included a dedicated exercise room, up from 18% in 2019. The conversation also touches on how REITs like Equity Residential are adding fitness centers to multifamily properties, which helps explain recent strength in apartment REITs. Tune in for a focused look at how the fitness industry is reshaping residential construction. #HomeBuilders #FitnessRooms #WellnessSuites #Lennar #PulteHomes #EquityResidential #NAHB #HousingTrends #RealEstate #NewHomes #HomeFitness #MortgageRates #HousingMarket #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Builders #HomeConstruction Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo