24% of Custom Homes Triggered by 'Child's Growth/Schooling'. Top Expectation is 'A Home for Long-term Comfort'.

Survey of 121 People: "Triggers and Reasons for Choosing Custom Homes"

A house is often called the biggest purchase in life. Among various options, custom-built homes are chosen by many as they allow families to reflect their lifestyle and ideals into a unique residence.

When do people actually decide to build a custom home? What expectations and anxieties lie behind this choice? NEXER, in collaboration with Ichikawa Kenchikuten (Sanjo City, Niigata), conducted a survey among 121 men and women nationwide who have built custom homes.

### Survey Overview - Period: May 7 - May 14, 2026 - Respondents: 121 nationwide individuals with custom home building experience

### 24.0% Triggered by 'Child's Growth/Schooling' The most common trigger was "Child's growth/schooling (room needed)" at 24.0%. This was followed by "Birth of a child" (16.5%) and "Marriage/New life with a partner" (11.6%). Changes in family structure and life stages are major factors.

Voices from respondents: - "Wanted to start a new life after marriage." (20s, Female) - "Planned to have more children; a condo was too small." (30s, Female) - "Concerned about the elementary school district." (30s, Male) - "Remote work." (40s, Male) - "Wanted to leave assets for my child." (40s, Male)

These comments highlight concerns like needing more rooms, school districts, and future asset value. Remote work also appeared as a factor, showing how the role of housing is expanding.

### 51.2% Chose Custom Homes for 'Freedom of Layout and Interior' When asked why they chose custom homes over pre-built houses or condos, 51.2% cited "Freedom to design the layout and interior." Other reasons included "Matching family lifestyle" and "Building a long-lasting home" (both 32.2%).

The survey concludes that the ability to think freely about layouts to match their specific lives is the most significant charm and deciding factor for custom-built homes.