What Home Buyers Really Want: Top 10 House Features

Posted by Justin Havre Real Estate Team on Monday, October 7th, 2024 at 1:17pm.

House Features Home Buyers are Looking For

Homebuyers today have a keen eye for features that go beyond mere aesthetics. The desire for functionality, sustainability, and convenience is shaping their preferences. From dedicated laundry rooms to energy-efficient appliances, certain elements are must-haves on many home-buying wishlists. Discover the key features that today’s home buyers are looking for.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Top 10 Home Features Buyers Want

Dedicated laundry space, preferably on the first floor
Energy-efficient appliances such as ENERGY STAR-rated kitchen appliances
Energy-efficient windows for temperature regulation and savings
Lots of natural light and energy-efficient LED lighting
Backyard patio, possibly with other outdoor entertainment features
Front porch, particularly combined with exterior lighting
Exterior home lighting
Smart home technology for convenience and energy efficiency
Hardwood floors, especially in main living areas
Full bathroom on the main floor

Laundry Room

Homebuyers overwhelmingly prioritize having a laundry room in their prospective homes, with a significant preference for it to be located on the first floor for convenience. In fact, almost all homebuyers desire a dedicated laundry space, and more than 60% specifically prefer having it on the first floor. This preference stems from the convenience of having the laundry room easily accessible from the main living areas, reducing the need to carry loads of laundry up and down stairs.

To increase the value of a home, you can enhance the laundry room in various ways. Simple enhancements such as painting the walls, adding efficient storage solutions, installing built-in ironing boards, and opting for stackable washer and dryer units can significantly elevate the space’s functionality and appeal. Don’t forget to mention the laundry room in your home listing!

Energy-Efficiency

When considering a potential home purchase, homebuyers prioritize energy-efficient features, including appliances, windows, and lighting. ENERGY STAR ratings are desired for their cost-saving benefits and eco-friendly nature.

Appliances

The demand for energy-efficient appliances in the kitchen is high among buyers, highlighting their emphasis on cost-saving and eco-friendly features. Many buyers desire new appliances in the kitchen, with a specific focus on energy-efficient models. These appliances are popular because of their ability to reduce utility costs in the long run while also contributing to a more sustainable living environment.

Upgrading to ENERGY STAR-rated appliances is popular among buyers, as it not only enhances a home's overall appeal but also aligns with their desire for energy efficiency. Incorporating energy-efficient appliances in the kitchen can be a significant selling point for sellers looking to attract potential buyers who value sustainable and cost-effective living solutions.

Windows

Buyers seeking energy-efficient home features often prioritize upgrading the windows to ENERGY STAR-rated windows for long-term cost savings and enhanced environmental benefits. These certified windows help passively regulate indoor air temperature and reduce utility bills.

By investing in these types of windows (or buying a home with them already installed), homeowners can enjoy long-term savings while making a positive impact on the environment. As buyers become more environmentally aware and cost-conscious, the demand for energy-efficient windows continues to rise, making them a high-ROI home improvement.

Lighting

Energy-efficient lighting appeals to environmentally conscious and budget-savvy individuals. By upgrading to LED bulbs, homeowners can reduce energy costs and heat production, making it a practical and budget-friendly choice. Upgrading the lighting can be a simple and affordable way to enhance the appeal of a home during a home showing.

Bright, natural lighting is a key feature that enhances the overall appeal of a home to potential buyers, creating a welcoming and well-lit atmosphere. If possible, never allow renovations to decrease the natural light in your home.

Outdoor Spaces

Homebuyers highly value outdoor spaces when searching for their dream home. Patios provide a valuable outdoor living area, and front porches and rear decks are also popular. Additionally, the vast majority of buyers prioritize exterior lighting for enhanced curb appeal and security.

Patio

Outdoor Living Space Adds Value to a Home

Installing a patio can significantly enhance the outdoor living experience of a home. With many buyers desiring this outdoor feature, patios have become a valuable amenity. Installing a paving stone patio typically ranges from $25 to $40 per square foot. Patios offer a versatile space for relaxation, entertainment, and dining, appealing to potential buyers looking for outdoor living options.

A well-designed patio or backyard deck can not only increase the overall appeal of a home but also add tangible value to the property. Homeowners can create a welcoming outdoor retreat by furnishing their patio with comfortable seating, outdoor dining sets, and decorative elements that suit their lifestyles. Whether used for hosting gatherings, enjoying a quiet morning coffee, or simply basking in the fresh air, a patio serves as an attractive extension of indoor living spaces, catering to the desires of modern homebuyers.

Porch

The allure of a front porch lies in its ability to create a warm and inviting entry point for potential buyers. Front porches offer a space for relaxation and socialization while adding to the curb appeal of the property. Improving existing exterior lighting can further elevate the ambiance and value of the porch area, making it a focal point for buyers.

A front porch not only enhances the visual appeal of a house but also provides a functional space where homeowners can enjoy the outdoors and engage with their community. As buyers seek a balanced lifestyle that includes outdoor leisure activities, the presence of a welcoming porch can make a significant impact on their decision-making process.

Outdoor Lighting

With almost every buyer desiring exterior lighting, this feature is clearly important in attracting potential buyers. By improving existing outdoor lighting and considering landscape lighting for enhanced curb appeal and home security, homeowners can make their property more inviting.

Outdoor lighting not only adds aesthetic value but also creates a safer environment for residents and visitors alike—especially if steps or stairs are involved. Well-thought-out lighting solutions can highlight architectural features, illuminate pathways, and enhance the overall ambiance of outdoor spaces.

Smart Technology

Buyers increasingly favour smart home technology for its convenience and efficiency in modern homes. The appeal of features such as smart thermostats, lighting, and security systems has surged in recent years. Smart technology not only offers convenience but also enhances energy efficiency and home security. Integrating smart devices into a home can significantly increase its value, attracting tech-savvy buyers looking for connected living experiences.

Smart thermostats are one of the most popular smart features, allowing homeowners to regulate temperatures remotely and optimize energy usage. Lighting systems that can be controlled through smart devices offer both convenience and the ability to create the desired ambiance with ease. Security systems that integrate smart technology provide peace of mind through features like remote monitoring and alerts.

Buyers appreciate the convenience and control that smart home features offer in daily living. As the demand for smart technology continues to rise, homes equipped with these features are likely to stand out in the real estate market and attract a broader pool of potential buyers seeking modern, tech-forward living spaces.

Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors remain a highly coveted feature among homebuyers for their timeless appeal, durability, and easy maintenance. Desired by many buyers, hardwood flooring can add 3%–5% to a home's sale price, making it a valuable investment.

For those looking to achieve the look of hardwood floors without the higher cost, budget-friendly alternative flooring options are available in the market. These alternatives offer a similar appearance to hardwood while being more economical, catering to a wider range of potential buyers.

Main Level Full Bath

Having a full bathroom on the first floor of a home is a significant preference for buyers. Renovating these bathrooms can offer a high return on investment, making it a key consideration for sellers looking to attract potential buyers.

Many older homes have a half-bath or powder room in the areas where buyers are now looking for full baths. If you can only do bathroom improvements to one bathroom, the one on the main floor could be a smart choice. Alternatively, you could consider a small bump-out home addition to turn a half-bathroom into a full bathroom.