While each home buyer – whether it be an individual or couple – has their own set of must-haves in a home, there are certain features that most buyers are looking for in a home.
If you’re planning to sell your home now or in the not-too-distant future, keep these most-searched-for features in a home in mind, as incorporating some of them into your home could help bolster its resale value.
Here they are, in descending order from number 10 down to the number one feature, which may surprise you.
10. Eat-in kitchen
Not surprisingly, this feature is huge for buyers, whether they’re singles or families. An eat-in kitchen gives you a spot for a handy eating area that can seat anywhere from two to eight people. It’s a versatile space where adults can read a book and enjoy a coffee, or for kids to eat lunch at under mom’s watchful eye. If big enough, it can also serve as an informal dining area.
9. A home less than five years old
In short, if people can find a home that’s less than five years old, they’ll jump at it. Most everything – from the roof, to siding, to flooring, appliances and finishes – is next to new. With any luck the home won’t need any major maintenance or upgrades for another five years, leaving money over to pay down the mortgage or make other major purchases.
8. Stainless steel appliances
A recent survey revealed that buyers between the ages of 35 and 54 vastly preferred stainless steel appliances over white or black appliances. The reason? The stainless finish simply looked more elegant. It didn’t matter that they showed finger marks more readily; the finish just made for a more upscale look.
7. Island kitchen
It’s easy to see why this feature ranked so high, as islands offer a high degree of versatility. With eating nooks that can seat two to four (or more), they can be used as an additional eating area for kids at family gatherings, as a prep area, or even as a serving area. Add in a double sink, and you can also do the dishes while you’re at it.
6. Master bedroom ensuite
This feature is popular for two reasons. First, it offers a separate bathroom where mom and dad can get ready in the morning without having to battle kids for space in the main bathroom. Second, it can serve as a private retreat where the man and woman of the house can repair at different times to take an invigorating shower or relax in the soaker tub while admiring its rich, spa-like ambience.
5. Laminate plank/luxury vinyl plank floors
Once upon a time, buyers wanted hardwoods; now they want laminate plank or luxury vinyl plank floors, that are beautiful, yet low maintenance.
4. Quartz or granite countertops
Elegant yet durable, stone countertops – starting with quartz – are what people want in their kitchen. Pair them with a striking backsplash and some smashing cupboards, and you have plenty of practical wow factor to enjoy.
3. Walk-in closet in the master suite
Simply put, a walk-in closet allows you to store wardrobe, footwear and accessories in a spot that’s out-of-the-way, yet accessible.
2. Newer kitchen appliances
Logic would dictate that if appliances are on the newer side – say three to five years old – they won’t have to be replaced for another three to five years. That’s one less expense to deal with after making the move to a new home.
1. Central air conditioning
While this must-have is surprising, it shouldn’t be. As most people would attest, there’s nothing worse than trying to endure boiling hot weather without air conditioning. Once you step inside and that cool breeze hits you, all is right in the world.
Chances are your list of must-haves in a home may differ from this one.
However, it’s also likely that many of these features made your short list, as they’re all highly desirable!