In today's competitive real estate market, homebuyers are becoming more discerning about the features they seek in a house. With changing lifestyles and evolving priorities, certain must-have features have gained prominence in shaping buyers' preferences. Understanding these crucial aspects can help sellers cater to the demands of potential buyers and increase their chances of selling their property faster. This article explores the top features that homebuyers look for in today's market, focusing on their preferences, expectations, and the significance of these features in a home. What Features Are Most Important to Home Buyers?

When asked what the most important features are in their home search, today's buyers tend to prioritize the following:

What Homebuyers Look for in Today's Market: Must-Have Features

Updated Kitchen

The kitchen remains one of the most important rooms to homebuyers. 88% of agents say a renovated kitchen is a key feature buyers want. Today's buyers look for stylish, updated kitchens with high-end appliances, plenty of cabinet and counter space, an open layout, and new finishes like quartz countertops.

Spacious Master Suite

Over half of buyers want a large master bedroom and bathroom. Having a master suite that feels like a peaceful sanctuary - with amenities like a soaking tub, walk-in closet, and sitting area - is a top priority for many buyers.

Flexible Living Spaces

With remote work on the rise, 65% of buyers want spaces that can flex to accommodate a home office or multi-use area. Features like open floor plans, lofts, finished basements, and bonus rooms appeal to buyers' needs.

Low-Maintenance Landscaping

Today's busy buyers don't want to spend all their time working in the yard. Low-maintenance landscaping with smart irrigation systems, hardscaping, and native plants are popular features.

Smart Home Technology

One-third of buyers are interested in tech features like smart thermostats, video doorbells, and smart locks. Tech-savvy buyers look for ways to automate and control their homes from their smartphones.

What is the Best Selling Feature of a House?

While buyers have diverse wish lists, certain features stand out for boosting a home's sale price and appeal. The number one best-selling feature of a home is an updated, spacious, open-concept kitchen.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a renovated kitchen offers a 69% return on investment. It's no wonder investors update kitchens before listing. But even non-investors want modern kitchens with enough space and flow for family meals and entertaining.

Other top-selling features include:

• Curb appeal - Landscaping, exterior paint, and other touches to wow buyers from the outside.
• Flexible living spaces - Home offices, multi-purpose rooms, finished basements.
• Outdoor living areas - Patios, decks, and pergolas extend living space.
• Smart home technology - Nest thermostats, video doorbells, and other smart devices.
• Luxury primary suites - Soaking tubs, walk-in closets, and sitting areas differentiate a home.
• Garage space - Multi-car garages and ample storage appeal to buyers.

Focusing upgrades on the kitchen and these other high-ROI features can really maximize a home's sales price in today's market.

What Are Features in Real Estate?

Simply put, features refer to the amenities, finishes, and built-ins that are included in a home. Features encompass the functionality, design, and convenience that buyers look for in their real estate search.

Common real estate features include:

Interior Features:

• Hardwood floors
• Granite countertops
• Stainless steel appliances
• Custom cabinetry
• Tile backsplashes
• Walk-in closets
• Fireplaces

Exterior Features:

• Deck/patio/porch
• Landscaping
• Fencing
• Exterior lighting
• Garage/carport
• Irrigation system
• Swimming pool

System & Smart Features:

• Newer roof/windows/doors
• Smart home technology
• Tankless water heater
• Security system
• Voice assistants
• Programmable thermostats
• USB outlets

Community & Location Features:

• Schools district
• Parks/trails
• Community pool
• Proximity to transportation/downtown
• Low crime rates
• Shopping/dining nearby

Buyers compare listings based on which features match their preferences and priorities. Having the right mix of features that today's buyers want can help a home stand out.

What Do Buyers Look for in a Kitchen?

The kitchen is one of the rooms buyers evaluate most closely. Here are the top kitchen features and design trends buyers look for in 2024:

• Open floor plan - Buyers want kitchens that connect with living and dining spaces.
• ** islands** - Islands offer extra prep space and seating. 60% of buyers search for island kitchens.
• Quartz countertops - Durable and stylish low-maintenance quartz is today's most wanted countertop.
• Smart storage - Clever storage with pull-out shelves and organizational systems.
• High-end appliances - Stainless steel fridges, gas ranges, and smart ovens appeal to buyers.
• Neutral palette - White and gray kitchens have timeless, mass appeal.
• Natural light - Windows, skylights, and open designs make kitchens feel bright and airy.
• Smart functionality - USB charging ports, touch taps, motion sensors, and smart controls.
• Eco-friendly finishes - Recycled glass backsplashes, low-VOC paints, and greener materials.
• Personality - Unique touches like an accent wall, tile mosaic, or custom hood add flair.

With kitchen remodels costing over $30,000 on average, it's smart to focus on the features and trends today's buyers find most valuable when upgrading this core space.

What Makes a Good Buyer?

In a competitive market, it takes a strategic, proactive approach to be a strong buyer. So what makes a good buyer? There are several key traits agents recommend:

• Financial readiness - Get pre-approved for a mortgage so you can move fast with cash offers or secure financing. Save for a 20% downpayment and closing costs.
• Decisiveness - Be ready to view homes and make offers quickly. Hesitating could mean losing out in bidding wars.
• Compromise - With limited inventory, you may not find everything on your wish list. Prioritize must-haves over nice-to-haves.
• Thoroughness - Inspect homes carefully and have professionals evaluate them. Don't skip important steps even when rushed.
• Competitiveness - Prepare to negotiate and potentially exceed listing prices in this seller's market.
• Strategic bidding - Know your budget and limits. Make smart counteroffers to beat competitors.
• Enthusiasm - Show genuine excitement about the home and community to sellers.
• Professionalism - Work closely with your agent and lender for a smooth process.
• Patience - With low inventory, finding the perfect home may take time. Stick with the search.

In competitive conditions, buyers who come prepared, move proactively, and bid competitively have the advantage.

What Buying Situations Do Buyers Face?

Today's homebuyers face challenging market dynamics beyond just high prices and low inventory. Understanding current real estate trends empowers buyers to navigate the process. Some situations buyers encounter include:

• Bidding wars - Competing with other buyers for limited inventory drives up prices.
• Escalation clauses - Buyers bid above the asking price and agree to outbid others up to a limit.
• Pre-listing offers - Sellers accept early offers before the home hits the market.
• Waiving contingencies - Buyers take on more risk by waiving inspection and appraisal rights.
• Cash offers - All-cash offers are more attractive to sellers but not feasible for everyone.
• Quick closings - Sellers favor buyers who can close in 14 days or less.
• Investor competition - Cash-flush investors edge out traditional buyers.
• Blind offers - Offers must be submitted without seeing the home in hot markets.
• Renovated "fixer-uppers" - Updated homes often sell over the asking price.
• Rising mortgage rates - Higher interest rates decrease buyers' purchasing power.

Recognizing common buyer scenarios and strategizing accordingly improves one's chances of success. Being flexible on move dates, acting quickly when interested, and getting creative with offers can help buyers stand out when facing competition.

What Do Buyers Determine?

There are several key factors buyers determine when searching for a home:

Location - Where they want to live based on the commute, amenities, school district, and lifestyle preferences.

Price range - Maximum budget they can afford based on income, downpayment, and monthly mortgage payment.

Home size - Square footage and number of bedrooms/bathrooms suitable for their needs.

Property Type - House, condo, or townhome based on maintenance and space preferences.

Age of home - Older homes with charm vs. newer construction.

Condition - Move-in ready vs. homes that need updating or renovations.

Yard size - Large yards for pets/kids vs. smaller lots or low-maintenance landscaping.

Special features - Must-have features like garage space or chef's kitchen.

Payment type - Conventional financing vs. special loan programs they qualify for.

Future plans - Whether the home has flexibility for a growing family.

Being clear on their priorities empowers buyers to zero in on homes meeting their most important criteria and evaluate trade-offs for other preferences. Understanding must-have home features versus areas with flexibility helps buyers make strategic decisions in their home search process.

What is the Golden Rule for Kitchen Design?

According to expert designers, the "golden triangle" or "work triangle" rule is key for optimizing kitchen layouts. The work triangle connects the three main kitchen workstations - the refrigerator, stove, and sink.

The guidelines recommend:

• No leg of the triangle should be less than 4 feet or more than 9 feet. This makes navigating between zones efficient.
• The optimal total triangle area is between 6-8 sq. meters. This leaves room to move without overly large spaces.
• There should be no major obstacles impeding the triangle's flow - islands, peninsulas, or walls can disrupt it.
• The sink should be located at the center vertex, equally accessible to the fridge and stove.

The work triangle rule minimizes steps between stations. It provides a smart blueprint whether designing a galley, L-shaped, or U-shaped kitchen. Minor adjustments within the golden triangle's ideal dimensions help maximize kitchen ergonomics and functionality for home cooks.

What Room is Most Important to Buyers?

While every home is different, real estate agents agree the kitchen is the room most important to a majority of buyers.

In surveys, over 50% of buyers say the kitchen and master bedroom suite are the top priorities on their home feature wish lists. However, the kitchen edges out the master in overall importance for several reasons:

• Heart of the Home - The kitchen is the most lived-in space where family and friends gather.
• Resale Value - A renovated, updated kitchen offers the highest ROI of any home improvement.
• Food Preparation - Buyers want spacious, functional cook spaces suited to their lifestyles.
• First Impression - Kitchens make a strong first impression and set the tone for the rest of the home.
• Dealbreaker - Most buyers will pass on a home with an outdated, poorly designed kitchen.
• Personal Style - Kitchens today are statements of personal style rather than purely utilitarian.
• Investment - Buyers know that investing in a new quality kitchen pays dividends.

While bedrooms and bathrooms also rank high, thoughtful kitchen design remains the top priority for buyers entering the most important room in the house during showings.

What Kitchen is Best for Selling House?

Home sellers aiming for maximum resale value would do well to give their kitchen a facelift before listing. So what's the best type of kitchen to attract buyers and sell a house quickly in today's market?

Here are the top kitchen features realtors recommend to help sell a home:

• White and gray color schemes - Neutral palettes have mass buyer appeal.
• Quartz or granite countertops - Durable natural stone counters signal quality.
• Contemporary styling - Sleek, modern elements without overly trendy finishes.
• Open layout - Removes walls for an airy, spacious feel with sight lines.
• New stainless appliances - Professional gas range, French door fridge, etc.
• Island or peninsula - Additional counter and seating space.
• Shaker-style cabinets - Timeless and clean-lined.
• Statement backsplash - Eye-catching tile or glass backsplash.
• Smart storage - Cabinet organizers and pull-outs.
• Under cabinet lighting - For an inviting ambiance.

A kitchen remodel with these contemporary but inoffensive elements offers the widest buyer appeal and delivers a strong return on investment when selling.

What Adds the Most Value to a Kitchen?

Certain kitchen upgrades add more value than others when considering ROI. While major remodels are costly, strategic renovations make an impact.

The top value-boosting kitchen upgrades include:

• Cabinetry - New cabinets and hardware drive huge perceived value. Opt for shaker-style cabinets in a neutral color.
• Countertops - Granite and quartz counters rank as the most valuable upgrade.
• Appliances - Stainless steel upgrades like French-door fridges strongly appeal to buyers.
• Sink - An apron-front or farmhouse-style sink adds stylish functionality.
• Backsplash - The eye-catching backsplash tile makes a statement.
• Lighting - Statement light fixtures and under-cabinet lighting look luxe.
• Flooring - Durable and stylish hardwood floors or tile boost value.
• Island -Adding or enlarging an island improves function and flow.

Less impactful upgrades:

• Cabinet hardware/pulls - Don't spend too much on super-premium hardware.
• Specialty storage - Focus on standard pull-outs more than fancy organizers.
• Sinks - Budget apron-front sinks offer the look for less.
• Countertop edges - Fancier edge profiles don't add proportional value.

Strategic updates like new cabinetry and quartz counters add the most value for potential buyers and offer a high return on investment.

What Makes the Best Kitchen?

While the "best" kitchen is somewhat subjective, there are certain elements that come together to create a dream kitchen for many of today's buyers.

Here are the hallmarks of a stunning, high-end luxury kitchen:

• Spacious open layout with a large island
• Wolf/SubZero/Miele appliances
• Custom cabinetry with inset doors and pull-outs
• Rare stone surfaces like marble or quartzite
• Designer tile or glass backsplash
• Under-cabinet and accent lighting
• Built-in smart tech and hidden outlets
• High-end hardware and fixtures
• Luxury touches like a pro-grade rangehood
• Integrated sink, faucet, and counter materials
• Soft-close doors and drawers
• Eye-catching statement features like a glass cabinet display
• Quality craftsmanship and attention to detail

While buyers may not find every luxury feature on their wish list, they gravitate toward kitchens with multiple high-end elements that scream both style and function. For serious home chefs, a pro-inspired kitchen with restaurant-grade appointments provides cooktop joy.

What is the Best Efficient Kitchen Design?

For busy home cooks, an efficient kitchen layout saves time and hassle. The best kitchen designs optimize workflow and storage with these strategies:

• Strategic triangle - Fridge, stove, and sink located in an optimized work triangle to minimize steps between stations.
• Task lighting - Under cabinet lighting illuminates prep surfaces.
• Double work zones - Islands and peninsulas double the workspace.
• Quick access - Place pots, pans, and commonly used items in easy-reach drawers and pull-out cabinets.
• Progressive storage - More distant cabinets hold lesser-used items.
• Clear sightlines - Open shelving provides visibility so items aren't forgotten.
• Simplified storage - Use trays, bins, and organizers to consolidate like items.
• Larder layout - A dedicated pantry stores bulk goods and small appliances out of the main kitchen.
• Easy clean materials - Quartz counters and stainless appliances clean up fast.
• Touchless faucets - Reduce germ spread and make cleanup easier.
• Garbage/recycling center - Hide away mess in a compartmentalized station.

Thoughtful kitchen plans that optimize storage, workflow, and cleanliness help cooks maximize efficiency and enjoyment.

What Makes a Kitchen Look Luxury?

For a luxury kitchen that feels like a high-end showplace, there are several design elements that signal upscale style:

• Exotic countertops like granite, quartzite, or marble with ornate edge details
• Custom cabinetry with inset doors and intricate frames
• Mosaic tile or designer glass backsplash
• Vented rangehood with brick or stonework
• Wolf, SubZero, Miele, or other pro-grade appliances
• Two islands with waterfall countertops
• Built-in top-of-the-line coffee and beverage stations
• High ceilings with decorative moldings and trim work
• Statement light fixtures like chandeliers or pendant lighting
• Bookmatched marble and hardwood floor patterns
• Framed windows and architectural details on glass cabinetry
• Under cabinet lighting for an even glow
• Glassdoor displays for fine china and glassware
• Wine refrigeration and cigar humidor built-ins
• Smart home and AV systems integration
• Water filtration, ice maker, and other premium features built-in

• The finest materials, craftsmanship, and attention to every detail combine to create a showstopping luxury kitchen that makes a strong style statement.

  What is the Most Popular Kitchen Design?

  In recent years, contemporary transitional-style kitchens have become the most popular design for the mass market.

  Elements driving this trend include:

  Layout - Open concept with large kitchen island. Removes walls for an airy, social feel.

  Cabinets - Shaker-style in white, gray, or light wood tones. Clean-lined and timeless.

  Counters - Neutral granite or white/gray quartz.

  Backsplash - White subway tile or mosaic glass tile.

  Flooring - Wide-plank gray wash wood floors.

  Hardware - Matte black or brushed nickel hardware.

  Lighting - Pendant lights over the island and under cabinet lighting.

  Faucets - Matte black and stainless finishes.

  Appliances - Stainless with pro-style range and hood.

  This look balances contemporary elements like open plans and Statement finishes with classic touches like shaker cabinets for a versatile, livable style with broad allure.

  How Do You Design a Perfect Kitchen?

  Designing the perfect kitchen is subjective to the homeowner's taste and lifestyle. However, there are guidelines interior designers follow to create dream kitchens:

• Define how you use the kitchen and the required features. Do you love to cook? Entertain? Need lots of storage?
• Optimize the layout. Follow work triangle rules but be flexible based on space. Include seating.
• Select durable, easy-care materials like quartz counters and tile backsplash.
• Create zones - cooking, cleaning, dining, etc - and design accordingly.
• Include elements you find beautiful - wood floors, marble, and a statement chandelier.
• Don't forget the lighting! Incorporate ambient, task, and accent lighting.
• Plan for storage everywhere - cabinets, drawers, pull-outs, pantry, and displays.
• Include amenities and tech that simplify your lifestyle like smart controls.
• Allow character and personality to come through in special details.
• Invest in high-quality appliances, fixtures, and craftsmanship.
• Think ahead to how your space needs may evolve down the road.

• There's no universally perfect kitchen. Thoughtfully planning a kitchen to match your unique style, values, and needs results in a personal dream space.

  What Makes a Beautiful Kitchen?

  While kitchen beauty is subjective, there are certain elements that create striking and inviting kitchen designs:

  Natural Lighting - Abundant windows, skylights, and open plans allow natural light to flood the space.

  Cohesive Design - Cabinets, counters, backsplash, and hardware share complementary finishes and styles.

  Thoughtful Storage - Cabinetry sized and laid out to maximize usable space.

  Luxurious Materials - Granite, marble, hardwood, and tile add natural texture.

  Pops of Color - Vibrant backsplash tile, range hoods, or colorful cookware add flair.

  Stylish Fixtures - Statement light pendants, high-arc faucets, and artistic vents make a statement.

  Flow and Spaciousness - Uninterrupted spaces and sightlines make small kitchens seem larger.

  Purposeful Decor - Meaningful plants, framed art, and cookbooks personalized.

  Comfortable Dining - Built-in banquette seating and space for a table encourage lingering.

  Personality - Unique antique accents, a custom range hood, or other bespoke details.

  Beautiful kitchens marry graceful, flowing spaces with striking finishes and decor reflecting the homeowner's personal style.

  What are the 4 Basic Kitchen Designs?

  Interior designers categorize most kitchen floorplans into four common configurations:

  Galley - Single-wall kitchens with counters and cabinets on opposite sides. Efficient for smaller spaces.

  L-shaped - Cooktop and sink on one wall, fridge and ovens on the other in an L configuration. Classic.

  U-shaped - Three walls outfitted with storage surrounding an open area. Allows multiple cooks.

  Island - L or U-shaped kitchen with additional island counter and cabinets in the center. Opens up the space.

  While new kitchens incorporate more blending and unique elements, most designs derive from or combine features of these four archetypes in some way based on the existing floor plan. Knowing the inherent benefits of galley, L, U, and island layouts helps guide kitchen design strategy.

  How to Make a Luxury Kitchen?

  A luxury kitchen conveys elegance through high-end finishes and design details. Here are ways to give a kitchen a glamorous and sophisticated look and feel:

• Install exotic countertops like marble, quartzite, or granite with ornate edge detail.
• Select custom or architect-series cabinetry with inset doors and premium woods. Add interior lighting.
• Use a glass tile, marble slab, or metal panel backsplash.
• Choose top-brand appliances like Wolf, Miele, and SubZero. Include a commercial-style rangehood.
• Opt for a large kitchen island with room for bar seating. Add a second island or kitchen desk.
• Incorporate architectural details like a coffered or tray ceiling, column bump-outs, or glass cabinets.
• Install under-cabinet lights on dimmers and pendant or chandelier fixtures.
• Upgrade flooring to natural stone, hardwood, or luxury vinyl plank.
• Add smart home features like touch-to-open drawers and built-in charging.
• Finish plumbing fixtures in matte black, polished nickel, or brass.
• Include custom amenities like a coffee station, glassware display, or wine cooler.

• Elegant kitchens have an allure that comes from investing in exquisite materials, state-of-the-art appliances, and meticulous craftsmanship.

  What are the 2 Most Important Rooms in a House?

  Kitchens and bathrooms are widely considered the two most important rooms in a home. Here's why they top buyers' wish lists:

  Kitchens:

• One of the most used rooms in daily life
• The "heart of the home" where family/friends gather
• Can increase the home value significantly if updated
• Sets the tone for the rest of the house with the first impression
• Outdated kitchens are dealbreakers for many buyers

• Bathrooms:

• A private sanctuary where you start and end each day
• Chance to add spa-like luxury with finishes
• Waterloo, drainage, and tile issues are expensive repairs
• Ensuite master bathrooms show the home's sophistication
• Increased desire for dual sinks, soaking tubs, walk-in showers

• While the entire home is important, buyers scrutinize kitchens and baths most closely. Money invested in these well-used spaces can really pay off when appealing to potential buyers down the road.

  What is the Most Important Factor Between a Buyer and Seller?

  More than price or features, trust is the most important factor shaping the relationship between a buyer and seller during a home transaction.

  Buyers and sellers often have competing interests, but deals run more smoothly when both parties act transparently and keep dialogue open. Honest communication allows buyers and sellers to:

• Align on expectations for timelines, contingencies, and more
• Avoid emotionally charged misunderstandings
• Properly address repairs or concerns that arise
• Stick to agreements without second-guessing motives
• Feel their needs are heard throughout the process

• When buyers trust sellers have nothing to hide, and sellers trust the buyer acts in good faith, major obstacles can be avoided. Agents also build trust by looking out for both party's interests.

  Reliable communication, candor about the home's positives and negatives, and ethical negotiation build the mutual trust vital for a seamless sale.

  What is the Most Important Part of a House?

  The most important part of a house is highly dependent on the priorities and lifestyle of its residents. However, realtors agree the kitchen is one of the most important parts of a home for buyers.

  Reasons the kitchen is so key:

• It's the heart of the home and one of the most lived-in spaces.
• It's where family and friends congregate and memories are made.
• It strongly influences a buyer's first impression upon walking in.
• Outdated or poorly designed kitchens are dealbreakers for many buyers.
• Realtors advise updating kitchens even more than bathrooms to maximize resale value.
• Buyers know they'll likely invest in improving the kitchen eventually.
• More buyers cook frequently and want spacious, functional kitchens.
• Open kitchen layouts that connect with living areas are highly preferred now.
• Luxury buyers want gourmet kitchens with professional appliances and amenities.

• No other room in the house offers the same versatility, resale value boost, and potential to become the functional centerpiece of daily home life.

  What is the Most Popular Room in a House?

  The kitchen reigns as the most popular room in most modern homes. Here's why the kitchen has such universal appeal among buyers and homeowners:

• It's the busiest room where families spend quality time together.
• The open kitchen/living room floor plan minimizes closed-off walls.
• It's where guests naturally congregate at parties.
• Even non-cooks appreciate a beautiful, luxurious kitchen.
• Remodeled dream kitchens inspire homeowners to eat at home more.
• Chef-quality appliances and amenities make cooking a joy.
• Islands and kitchen tables provide casual dining spots.
• Kitchens incorporate tech and smart home hubs.
• Abundant natural light and cozy Task lighting provide comfort.
• Kitchens showcase the homeowner's style through materials like backsplashes.
• Kitchens contain life's simple pleasures - food, coffee, and wine.

• For these lifestyle and emotional reasons, kitchens give buyers memorable experiences that other rooms just can't match in most homes.

  What is the Most Used Space in a House?

  While every home is different, real estate agents agree the kitchen is hands-down the most used and lived-in space in most homes. Here's why:

• Cooking and dining happen multiple times a day in the kitchen.
• The kitchen is where family members tend to gather and socialize.
• Kitchens now seamlessly connect with adjacent living spaces.
• Islands and kitchen tables have become casual homework, office, and hangout spots.
• Open shelves and cabinets keep snacks and beverages handy.
• Kitchens integrate tech gadgets for news, music, and controlling smart homes.
• Homeowners store kids' artwork and treasured mementos in the heart of the home.
• Premium appliances make the kitchen the ultimate entertainment space.
• Kitchens are workshop spaces for hobbies like baking or canning goodies.
• Morning coffee and winding down in the evening happen in the kitchen.

• No other room activates all the senses or facilitates togetherness like the bustling, vibrant hub of the home.

  What is the Most Common Room in a House?

  The most common dedicated room found in nearly every home layout is the kitchen. Unlike special-purpose spaces like home theaters or workout rooms tailored to personal interests, a kitchen is an essential standard room universal to virtually all house plans.

  Nearly all single-family homes, condos, and apartments contain a kitchen space, making it the most common dedicated room across all housing types.

  Reasons the kitchen is such a fundamental standard room:

• Food preparation is an essential daily activity, requiring a functional cook space.
• Kitchens naturally serve as a gathering spot for family and guests.
• The ability to cook meals at home is expected by homeowners and renters alike.
• Kitchens add significant value to properties for resale potential.
• Open floor plans blend kitchens with adjacent living areas.
• Appliances like refrigerators need hookups kitchens to provide.
• Structural elements like sinks require specific kitchen plumbing.

• Along with standard bedrooms and bathrooms, today's homebuyers expect every house or apartment to contain a kitchen space in some configuration to meet this basic daily need.

  How Many Houses Do Most Buyers Look At?

  According to the National Association of Realtors, today's buyers view an average of 10 homes before making a purchase. This has steadily increased over the past decade:

• In 2012, the average was just 6 homes viewed
• By 2019, this rose to 8-10 homes
• In 2022, it hit 10 average homes toured

• Reasons buyers now view more properties:

• Expanded online listings give more options to see.
• Competitive markets mean buyers can't risk over-committing to just a couple of homes.
• First-time buyers generally tour more to understand pricing and preferences.
• Repeat buyers may view less if they clearly know what they want.
• Virtual tours and digital tools allow faster preliminary viewing.
• Low inventory areas offer less selection requiring expanded searches.

• To find "the one" and avoid buyer's remorse, viewing around 10 homes helps buyers knowledgeably weigh the pros and cons to make a confident buying decision. Virtual tours also allow buyers to preview even more homes online as an initial filtering tactic.

  What are the Must-Have Rooms for a House?

  The most commonly expected rooms in a single-family home are:

  Kitchen - Given their central role, nearly all homebuyers require a kitchen including appliances, counter space, and cabinets.

  Bedrooms - Multiple bedrooms are a must to accommodate owners, kids, guests, offices, etc.

  Bathrooms - At minimum a half bath plus a full master bath, but most want 2+ baths.

  Living Room - An open common area for family activities, entertainment, and seating is essential.

  Dining Area - Either a dedicated dining room or eat-in kitchen provides mealtime space.

  Laundry - In-unit laundry with washer/dryer hookups allows owners to clean clothes onsite.

  While secondary rooms like dens, basements, and lofts are nice additions, today's buyers fundamentally expect homes to deliver on these core must-have rooms that meet their lifestyle needs.

  What are the Important Spaces in a Home?

  The most important interior spaces in a home are:

  Entryway - Provides a warm welcome and makes a good first impression.

  Kitchen - The heart of the home where families gather and connect.

  Living Room - A central hub for relaxation, entertainment, and socializing.

  Primary Bedroom - A sanctuary-like retreat ideal for rest and rejuvenation.

  Bathrooms - Spa-inspired baths for self-care and washing needs.

  Dining Area - Eat-in kitchen or separate dining room for meal gatherings.

  Laundry Room - Allows cleaning clothes from the ease of home.

  Home Office - Dedicated workspaces supporting remote work needs.

  Backyard - Outdoor living and landscaping extend living space.

  These spaces see the most daily use and have the biggest influence on a home's livability and functionality. Prioritizing these versatile spaces gives homeowners the most value and enjoyment.

  Conclusion

  In navigating today's competitive market, focusing on the interior spaces and features most important to buyers can make a house stand out. While trends come and go, vitally important kitchens and flexible living areas remain at the top of most wish lists. Keeping these evergreen desires in mind while touring homes allows buyers to zero in on properties meeting their most critical criteria. At the same time, making strategic renovations to the kitchen can maximize a home's resale appeal. Understanding and delivering on the must-have rooms and spaces buyers want positions both buyers and sellers for success.