10 Home Features Homebuyers are Prioritizing This Year
As the world shifts to a post-pandemic economy, homebuyers are making new things their priorities as they search for their perfect properties. Selling a home, a first-time buyer, or investor—being able to identify the most coveted elements in buyers these days will work to your advantage. Take a look at this year’s top 10 desired
As the world shifts to a post-pandemic economy, homebuyers are making new things their priorities as they search for their perfect properties. Selling a home, a first-time buyer, or investor—being able to identify the most coveted elements in buyers these days will work to your advantage. Take a look at this year’s top 10 desired features—and what you can use this insight to do.
1. Functional Home Offices
Home working culture is here to stay, and purchasers enjoy having dedicated space to stay productive. Purchasers are looking for a quiet, light-filled area with storage fitted or flexible furniture. Sellers can improve the attractiveness of their properties, by converting unused rooms like guest rooms or basements to be functional home offices.
Example: Homes with pre-fitted offices reportedly sold 10% higher than their similar counterparts (source: Zillow).
2. Energy-Efficient Features
Sustainability is not a trend; it’s necessary. Consumers want energy-saving options that reduce the cost of utilities and their carbon footprint.
Highly sought-after energy-saving upgrades are:
- Solar panels
- Energy-efficient windows and insulation
- Tankless water heaters and smart thermostats
3. Open Floor Plans
Roominess remains high on buyers’ lists, with open-plan living spaces remaining number one on wish lists. Combined kitchen, dining, and living rooms are ideal for entertaining and offer a modern appearance.
When you’re renovating, consider removing non-load-bearing walls to create an open environment.
4. Updated Kitchens
The kitchen remains the center of the home. Modern kitchens with new appliances and designs are a necessity.
What shoppers want:
- Quartz or granite countertops
- Smart appliances (e.g., touchless faucets, smart refrigerators)
- Open shelving with closed cabinetry
Even a small kitchen refresh, like new cabinet handles or a backsplash, can make a huge difference in perceived value.
5. Luxurious Bathrooms
Today’s buyers are looking for spa-like experiences within the home. Simple upgrades can make a big difference.
Features that wow:
- Rain showers
- Freestanding bathtubs
- Heated floors and towel racks
Statistic: Listings that included heated bathroom floors had properties sell 34% faster than comparable homes (source: Realtor.com).
6. Outdoor Living Spaces
Living post-pandemic has increased the demand for outdoor entertainment spaces. Buyers look for functional outdoor areas to relax, work, and entertain.
Key features:
- Covered patios or pergolas
- Outdoor kitchens or BBQ stations
- Fire pits and seating areas
Table 2. Outdoor Features That Increase Property Value
| Outdoor Feature | Estimated ROI | Buyer Demand (%) |
| Covered patio | 50-75% | 60% |
| Outdoor kitchen setup | 55% | 47% |
| Fire pit | 78% | 35% |
7. Smart Home Technology
From remotely adjusting the thermostat to offering home security, smart technology is a strong selling feature. Buyers especially seek:
- Cam-security systems
- Smart blinds and lighting
- Voice-activated assistants integrated into a home system
Units like Google Nest or Amazon Alexa hubs are affordable upgrades that strongly boost appeal.
8. Mudrooms or Drop Zones
Functionality and practicality are combined here. A stylish mudroom makes it possible to stay neat and clean, especially for families.
Buyers’ features in demand:
- Storage space built-in
- Hooks for coats and bags
- Durable flooring, like tile or laminate
9. Ample Storage Space
Lack of storage could be a turn-off. Homebuyers want homes with plenty of space to stash things.
High-demand storage features include:
- Walk-in closets
- Built-in shelving
- Attic or basement storage
Don’t forget your garage! A bright finish with shelf or cabinet spaces against the wall can be of huge impact when it comes to impressing future buyers.
10. Flexible Spaces
Flexibility is crucial with changing lives. Be it a play space, gym, home theater, or hobby area, buyers value flexible spaces that adapt to their needs.
Sellers can sell redundant spaces by tarting them up as contemporary or flexible spaces.
Why These Features Matter
Adapting to buyers’ desires can seem daunting, but these factors can improve property demand and lead to higher sale prices. Whether it’s optimizing an existing listing or searching for investment homes, prioritizing these factors ensures one is in front of the curve when it comes to market trends.
Need help preparing your home for sale? Or are you unsure what constitutes an investment property? Call our specialists today to learn how you can get the most from the market.