Top 10 Features Home Buyers Want in 2017

Find out the top 10 features today’s home buyers are looking for in a home so you can better meet their demands and help them find the home of their dreams. 

Although the generations of home buyers differ, there are many common features they all want in a home. According to a study conducted by the National Association of Home Builders, home buyers are looking for features that will help them save energy and money and will help them keep their family and home organized. Here are the top 10 features on their most wanted list:

1. Laundry room

A separate laundry room is at the top of the list as the most desired feature in a home. Having a laundry room for folding clothes, piling up dirty clothes or ironing is a huge benefit, as it helps keep the mess out of the rest of the home — like the guestroom, couch or dining room table.

2. ENERGY STAR® appliances/windows/fixtures

Energy efficiency and saving money on utility bills are top priorities for homebuyers. Energy-efficient windows can help cut heating and cooling costs by 12%, an ENERGY STAR appliance like a washing machine can help save a homeowner $40 or more a year on utility bills and an ENERGY STAR Certified Home uses 15-30% less energy.

3. Exterior lighting

Exterior lighting is the most desired outdoor feature. An illuminated home that highlights landscaping, a tree or a beautifully manicured lawn can improve the aesthetics of a home and set a mood. It can also help guide visitors to the front door in the dark and is an excellent burglar deterrent.

4. Patio

Patios are the second most coveted outdoor feature. Outdoor areas offer more living space without the cost of a home addition and they can help recover 30-60% of a home’s investment. Plus, they’re great for entertaining or just relaxing outdoors.

5. Ceiling fans

Ceiling fans are practical and decorative. They’ve become must-haves as energy costs continue to rise because they can cool a room more efficiently than air conditioning. Plus, they come in many beautiful and stylish designs.

6. Full bath on main level

A second full bathroom in a house can make a big difference and a good impression on buyers. In fact, an additional full bath can increase a home value by 20%. Plus, it comes in handy as a guest bathroom.

7. Hardwood on main floor

Not only do hardwood floors give a home a nice sleek look, they’re also cleaner, easier to maintain and more durable than carpeting. Hardwood floors can be refinished and can last a lifetime.

8. Insulation higher than required by code

Insulation helps lower the cost of heating and cooling. Higher insulation levels that exceed code requirements can usually be found in energy-efficient homes.

9. Garage storage

Everyone loves having lots of storage space and the garage is the most convenient and accessible place for storage, as it’s usually just a few steps away from the house. A nicely organized, roomy and easily accessible garage with storage cabinets is very appealing.

10. Eat-in kitchen

Kitchens with plenty of space for a table are important to home buyers, especially those with families. The kitchen table is where everyone congregates — in the morning over breakfast and in the evening for dinner.

https://www.newhomesource.com/resourcecenter/articles/top-10-features-home-buyers-want
http://time.com/money/4513532/what-home-buyers-want/
http://eyeonhousing.org/2016/03/housing-preferences-across-generations-part-i/
http://www.nahbclassic.org/generic.aspx?sectionID=734&genericContentID=249797&channelID=311&_ga=1.246599044.1049533126.1481038355
http://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/real-estate/T010-S001-7-features-home-buyers-want-most/index.html