Latest Home Buying Trends: Top Features Home Buyers Are Looking For

If you’re thinking about selling your home, don’t wait. Demand is high right now, and you’ll likely see a lot of buyer interest. But don’t let that deter you from making home updates before selling. Buyers have begun to develop a selective taste and are more interested in spending big on homes that match their taste.

It can be tempting to go overboard and redesign massive areas of your house. However, before you commit to a remodel, keep in mind that you’re unlikely to get your money back. A 2021 study shows that the most profitable remodel, garage doors, only recouped 93.4% of expenses on average in the Texas area. Make sure you know which improvements are most likely to net a profit.

If you want to get the best offer, focus on what home buyers are looking for and only make those changes. Here is a list of popular features buyers are looking for — as well as a few common complaints amongst said buyers.

Main Floor Full Bath

Having a full bathroom on the main floor is a must-have for a few reasons. It gives guests a private area to retreat. Buyers also prefer a shower on the first floor because it provides the opportunity to live on one floor, if needed.

It also lets parents with children work in the kitchen while keeping an eye on bathing kids. A bath shower combo is the most efficient use of space. If you lack it, a main floor bathroom addition is one of the most important rooms to add.

Garage

Many current home buyers are purchasing their first house. These people often either have families or are looking to start one. As such, they are searching for an upgrade in space.

Garages provide a great, versatile option for space. Not only do they have room for tools and storage boxes, but they also shelter your car from the weather and vandalism.

Since garages are more accessible than a shed or attic, it’s typically a better investment to install workbenches or cabinets in a garage than either of the other two. Focus on adding a few storage options in your garage that will maximize its space and make it stand out.

Laundry Rooms

Surprising to some, laundry rooms are now one of the most sought-after rooms in a house. This goes back to the need for more space. Buyers want a place where they can stack dirty — or clean — laundry that is not visible in the rest of the house.

A good place to add a laundry room is in a basement, where utility lines are already set up. Add extra appeal by putting in shelving and cabinets for more storage.

Private Outdoor Space

The pandemic has made living in close quarters a must. While this can be a great chance to spend quality time with friends and family, it’s also important for people to have a private oasis as an escape. A great place to do this? Your yard.

To make your yard appear bigger, trim the bushes. Start by simple updates such as removing weeds and making sure your trees aren’t trailing branches on the ground.

You can add a few small features that will highlight your outdoor setting as relaxing and inviting. Add a firepit, update old furniture cushions, and string some lights along your patio.

Top Features

Some features that top the list for homebuyer essentials include ceiling fans, double kitchen sinks, hardwood floors in the main living area, and energy-efficient lighting.

If you don’t have the funds for some of the bigger projects, focus on these. They will make a big difference and will put your house at the top of the favorite’s list.

Most Common Complaints

Below is a list of the most common complaints buyers made about their new property. These answers were in response to a question regarding how well their house held up to post-pandemic requirements.

●      Lacked space to separate work from play areas

●      Lacked privacy for work from home

●      Lacked places to isolate and socially distance

All of these problems center around space constraints. While it can be difficult to add space cheaply, there are options that create the same effect. Keeping areas self-contained is great at achieving this. If the north and south half of your house have a full bathroom and a bedroom, cohabiting these areas is much easier.

If you’re looking to sell your house by owner, check out these valuable tips. Need a little guidance as you get ready to sell your house? MISS10N Realty Group offers a la carte services such as photography, staging, and contract review or writing. We also have a full-service realtor and always put 10% of her commission into a charity of your choice.

Key Takeaways

1. Main floor bathrooms benefit guests and children.

2. Garages give desired space and a haven for vehicles. 

3. Include a laundry room for extra space.    

4. Outdoor spaces satisfy the demand for a natural escape.

5. Buyers want separate areas to isolate and socially distance.