What Bay Creek Buyers Are Looking For On Virginia’s Cape: Q&A with Terry Industries Laura Zito

Just across the Chesapeake Bay on Virginia’s Cape lies a magical coastal haven that leaves the crowds and congestion of the city far behind. Instead of noise and busyness, life here is governed by soothing sea breezes and the natural rhythm of the Bay. Water is all around. As is the opportunity to immerse oneself in a resort living experience that is unparalleled.

The place is called Bay Creek. And there’s something about this pristine coastal setting that connects deep with one’s soul and beckons exploration and discovery. This community grants access to a scenic world of breathtaking natural beauty and an endless array of water activities, outdoor recreation, small-town charm, and old-fashioned hospitality—all of which are particularly enticing to today’s home buyers.

As buyer behavior has shifted over the past year, we thought it would be a good idea to talk to someone who has their finger on the pulse of the top-end real estate market on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Laura Zito of Terry Industries is a preferred builder at Bay Creek, the premier community on Virginia’s Cape. She took the time to share her views on market behavior and what exactly today’s buyers are looking for.

Q & A: Laura Zito
Q: Laura you and your father, Bill Terry, have been in the area for some time, how has buyer behavior changed over the past 12 months?

A: Well, generally speaking, home buyers are looking for a getaway—a place that is safe, low density, nature forward, and emphasizes health and wellness. But although safety and security are drivers, buyers don’t want to compromise their quality of life either. They want experiences built around coastal activities and amenities. We see a lot of families, of varying ages and stages in life, who like the privacy and space that a community like Bay Creek gives. They are tired of living in overcrowded urban areas, so coming to a place like Bay Creek is their dream.

Q: What types of activities are popular with families today?

B: Anything outdoors and around the water. Today’s buyers, regardless of age, like to stay active. They like to be healthy. Wellness is very important. So they want to be in a community that is conducive to that. Fishing, crabbing, and hiking are big. Many families want a nature preserve with a network of trails. People are also looking for parks and nature preserves. Green space is always a good thing and open-air facilities in which people can gather.

Q: Are there any popular new trends?

B: Yes, families are starting to skew younger than in the past. And a big reason for that is Covid. Younger families with small kids are placing a premium on safety now and want to live in a community that allows them to escape over-crowded urban areas while at the same time elevating their quality of life. So instead of waiting till the kids are older, or out of the house, before buying in a community like Bay Creek, they’re doing it now. It’s become a priority.

Q: Is privacy important today?

B: Absolutely. A nature community like Bay Creek has that built-in, if you will. Isolating is a way of life here, in that there is plenty of space to enjoy the activities and amenities without huge crowds of people. There is a small but like-minded community here that allows families to engage and interact at a level they are comfortable with. Each family is different and bay Creek accommodates that. There are places to gather comfortably indoors or out, preserved spaces that foster the privacy and serenity of this natural environment. 

Q: If you had to name one thing as most important with today’s buyer what would it be?

B: Quality homes. People expect craftsmanship and quality. That will never change. People want a casual coastal setting, but they also want contemporary comfort and convenience. Again, they don’t want to compromise. And we realize that at Terry Industries, we want to give people exactly the kind of home they want to meet their needs. At the end of the day, they want a coastal home in community that has it all: scenic beauty, privacy, a sense of community, quality homes, and great amenities and activities.