Buying a home is one of life’s most personal decisions. No two buyers are identical, yet there are clear patterns in what homebuyers want from their homes. If you’re in real estate or selling your own property, understanding these preferences isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for connecting buyers with homes they’ll truly love.
In this guide, we’ll discuss what current home trends buyers are looking for so realtors can help sellers highlight their property for maximum appeal.
What Homebuyers Want From Their Homes
Every buyer approaches the market with a unique set of priorities. Maybe it’s being close to family, nestled in a walkable neighborhood, or finding that perfect commute. While some of these specifics (school districts, favorite coffee shops, proximity to work) aren’t always within your control, there are universal features and benefits that nearly all modern homebuyers are actively seeking.
Recognizing these high-demand trends and features gives you a distinct edge. By anticipating buyer needs, you can position a property to spark interest immediately.
The Top Features Homebuyers Value
Understanding what homebuyers want from their homes starts with recognizing which features make a difference on first impression and over time. These are the elements that today’s buyers notice, remember, and act on.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Homeowners are increasingly eco-conscious. Energy-efficient appliances deliver on two fronts: they conserve resources and lower utility bills. From Energy Star refrigerators to water-saving washers, buyers are looking for the kind of smart upgrades that save money every month and align with sustainable living. According to the National Association of Home Builders, over 80% of buyers view energy-efficient appliances as “essential” or “desirable.”
Highlight these in listings by clearly labeling any energy-efficient or smart appliances during home tours. Include a homeowners’ warranty or installation dates for added peace of mind.
Smart Home Technology
Modern living is fueled by convenience and connectivity. Smart tech features like programmable thermostats, app-controlled lights, and enhanced security systems top today’s must-have list. The ability to control lighting, climate, and safety from a smartphone attracts buyers who want both comfort and peace of mind.
Stage showings with smart home features in action (demo the voice assistant or automated lighting). You can also list the benefits, such as lower bills due to scheduled lighting and customizable security.
Dedicated Home Office Space
With more people working from home than ever before, a quiet, functional workspace is essential for many buyers. A spare bedroom, nook, or finished basement with privacy potential can quickly become a selling point for people who want to create a separate space for focus.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor space has skyrocketed in value for buyers. Patios, decks, and landscaped gardens represent extensions of the home, perfect for entertaining or simply unwinding. Well-designed outdoor areas add versatility and increase perceived property value.
During showings or the photoshoot, set up outdoor furniture to showcase staged uses (e.g., a barbecue, fire pit, or reading spot).
Flexible Multi-Use Rooms
Versatility matters, especially if you’re showcasing houses in dense, urban areas where space is a premium. Rooms that can easily transform—from a home gym to a playroom or guest suite—are attractive to buyers who know their needs will evolve. Flexible spaces ensure a home can grow with its owners.
Suggest a range of possible functions when touring rooms or showcase spaces that transform, like a sliding doors that reveal desk space or fold-down writing spaces. If the space is unfurnished, provide mockups or photos of different setup ideas.
Ample Storage Solutions
Everyone craves a clutter-free home, especially families. Walk-in closets, built-in shelves, and spacious garages are worth their weight in gold. Lack of ample storage space leads to buyer’s remorse for 80% of homebuyers.
Make sure closets and storage areas are organized and accessible during showings – or just empty altogether to make it easier for potential buyers to envision themselves there. Point out often overlooked and unique solutions, like under-stair storage or garage cabinets to draw attention to all storage options.
Sustainable Building Materials
Environmentally responsible design matters now more than ever. Bamboo flooring, recycled countertops, and double-paned windows demonstrate a home’s sustainability and long-lasting quality. Buyers appreciate materials that are good for the planet and built to last.
Share information on the durability and eco-friendliness of building materials and highlight any certifications, like LEED or Green Building. Features like heat pumps for eco-friendly builds should be included.
Leveraging Buyer Insights With McClatchy
No matter how unique your home or your buyer’s wishlist, the right data can help you make ideal matches. That’s why at McClatchy, we invest heavily in understanding what homebuyers want from their homes. Our McClatchy Digital Audience network delivers access to deep, actionable insights about a broad pool of qualified buyers—from those seeking historic character to those prioritizing green tech or flexible living spaces – to match home features to the most relevant real estate audience.
Are you ready to reach homebuyers who are searching for exactly what you have to offer? With tailored marketing, you can match buyers to homes they’ll love, and sellers to the right audience.
Reach out to McClatchy today to discover how you can connect with the perfect homebuyer, every time.
