Whether you're buying, selling or just looking, these are the features that new home buyers say are most important to them.
These Features Are What New Home Buyers Wants Most In a House
1
/
6
Overall Desires
According to the NAHB survey, there are two overarching trends regarding the features that new home buyers look for most. First, buyers are opting for smaller homes than in previous years. Smaller doesn’t necessarily mean small, however. The survey reports that “home buyers are looking for homes around 2,070 square feet.”
The second thing buyers are looking for is “personalization and authenticity.” Gone are the days of cookie-cutter homes being the big draw. People want to be able to put their own stamp on their home rather than living in a pre-set template.
2
/
6
Rooms
Despite the preference for smaller homes than in past years, there are still some rooms that new home buyers are eager to see. The two listed in the survey are a dedicated laundry room and a full bath on the main level. Home buyers don’t want to have to go upstairs to access a full bath, nor do they want their laundry space to double as anything else.
Kitchen Specifics
In addition to wanting certain rooms included in the home, new home buyers want some features specific to the kitchen. Table space in the kitchen, as well as built-in kitchen seating, speak to a desire to have more space to socialize in the kitchen. Home buyers also said they want quartz or engineered stone for kitchen countertops and a walk-in pantry.
3
/
6
Outdoor Spaces
The desire for a smaller living space doesn’t mean that new home buyers overlook outdoor features. The survey lists several desirable outdoor options for both front and back yards, including:
- a patio
- exterior lighting
- a front porch
- landscaping
- outdoor fireplaces
- outdoor kitchens
Like the kitchen wish list, many items on this list are spaces or fixtures that facilitate hosting friends and family.
4
/
6
Fixtures
It’s not just spaces that allow for entertaining on this list. New home buyers also had some specific fixtures they prioritized, including ceiling fans, Energy Star appliances and lighting control systems. So, if you’re looking to update fixtures in your home, these are three areas to prioritize.
5
/
6
Special Features
Last but not least on this list, new home buyers said they wanted several “special features” in their homes. The features they specified add extra storage, make the homes more energy efficient, and give them character. These include things like Energy Star windows, garage storage, hardwood flooring and exposed beams.
6
/
6
Source
Better, Not Bigger, Homes Among Top Design Trends for 2024, National Association of Home Builders, 2024.
