I posted a similar inquiry to the home repair newsgroup and would appreciate
any suggestions for other, active, newsgroups where it would get a good
response.
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I have a lifelong background in real estate and am now retired. I'd enjoy
discussing the differences in upscale single family residences found in
various parts of the country, if anyone is interested.

I am now retired to NV. Here, after looking at various custom and
semi-custom homes, I was surprised to learn I'd not "seen it all," yet.
Besides the expected features and amenities found in most upscale homes
today, such as commercial appliances in kitchens, media wiring, built in
vac, granite counters, cabinetry in the closets and multiple car garages, I
have seen some new things. These include a separate sink for vegetable
preparation, usually located near the one or two refrigerators, two
dishwashers, pot filler faucet by the cooktop, outlets inside bathroom
drawers for curlers and hair dryers, fireplaces in major bathrooms and the
master suite, steam showers and (always) an in-ground pool with spa.

Upscale flooring in Nevada is typically Travertine in most areas and carpet
in the bedrooms, with large tile being acceptable if it matches the theme of
the home. Ceilings are usually 10' in the "lower" semi-custom homes and 12'
to 15' in the better custom ones. Doors are almost always 8', solid, and
have Baldwin or Emco hardware. Windows are low E double pane, of course,
and insulation is extensive. Exterior walls are 6" and the better homes have
5/8" drywall throughout. In some of the better custom homes, the front
door(s) are massive iron with swing out leaded glass inserts, weighing in
around 400# each.

Another feature seen in the upscale homes is stepped, or coffered, ceilings-
many with crown mold as well on the vertical portions. Pot shelves are
found in even the tract homes. Drywall corners are rounded, rather than
square, and there is every conceivable finish to the drywall other than flat
and smooth. Even in the multi million dollar homes, though, trim and
baseboards are almost always painted and of man-made material, rather than
hardwood. Hardwood trim and doors are simply not evident.

What amenities, features and the like do you find in your own area of the
country, such as the above?

Nonny