Ever wonder why the design of a particular condo building or house is somewhat familiar, repetitive, or seems identical? This is called the cookie-cutter approach. Figuratively speaking, buildings are like a batch of mass-produced cookies while the “tried-and-tested template” building solutions and processes resemble the cookie cutter which results to little or no variation. It is quite evident as it dominates the real estate industry and even the city skylines.

The public has divided opinions with this standardized market approach by real-estate developers.

Some property buyers prefer pre-built homes as more affordable housing option.  When it comes to real estate, being unconventional will cost you more. Standardized and repetitive approach cost less than customization in terms of design and construction. But please be wary of choosing the right developer as it could turn into a headache if inferior workmanship and materials are used. Another reason could be the future plans for resale. Reselling your cookie-cutter property will appeal to a broader range of potential buyers; which is a smarter investment option than a customized home.

On the other hand, some people strongly dislike it and use the term cookie-cutter as an insult. This side demands for game-changers in terms of market approach and design innovation. They mock the so-called boring boxy projects, hospital-type condo corridors, and ugly facades. The mistake of entering the wrong house e is common joke due to the absence of uniqueness.   It may incur additional expenses for modification and upgrade to better quality of materials. For this reason, they opt to buy a vacant lot and be involved in the process of design-to-construction.

Real estate is business. Developers are primarily focused on immediate ROI. This is a barrier to innovation. There may be avant-garde projects but the growth over time is in a slow curve. Shift in the mindset of all stakeholders, investors, and market will require the passion of non-conformist developers, architects, and engineers that are creative problem solvers and who have the guts to take risks, explore, and develop cutting-edge ideas.

But what if end-consumers don’t know what they really want or need unless they see it? They should see the potential of a market demand that seeks for imaginative but practical designs. The out-of-the-box features increase property value. Not many developers offer co-living/co-working set-ups, smart homes, and self-sustaining houses. If consumers will continue to demand, Investors will see the feasibility. Moreover, technology will trigger the real-estate industry to innovate. For years, innovation is a challenge in the Real estate and Construction industry. However, people’s demand for new innovations and solutions has become prevalent due to widespread digital transformation. 

In my opinion, even as practicing architect, buying a cookie-cutter property is not a bad option. This never-ending debate and criticism is good for evaluation and improvement. This option has been tested for a long time and is still relevant because there’s a market for it. In addition, the price of housing is so expensive right now.

Building or buying a property depends on your preference. As a buyer, think of the pros and cons. You need to consider your financial requirements, if you opt to personalize your future home, and if what are your long-term goals. The developers market strategy is reliant on the trend. The demographics of property buyers are constantly evolving as well as their demands. But I cookie-cutter approach is a tried and tested solution so it will probably stay as an option as of now.