Home buyers look for several things in their new home. Some of these “wants” are basic, such as:
- Price. Home buyers usually want their new home to be in a specific price range based on their budget or mortgage pre-qualification.
- Location. Home buyers may want their home to be in a neighborhood that is safe, convenient, and has access to a range of amenities. They usually have a specific town or area in mind when looking for a new home.
- Size. Home buyers typically know how many bedrooms and bathrooms they want, even if they don’t’ have a specific square footage or acreage in mind.
- Condition. Most home buyers want the home to be in move-in condition or as close to it as possible. A well-cared-for home can save them money on immediate repairs and updates. Few home buyers are prepared to buy true fixer-uppers.
After their basic considerations are satisfied, home buyers look for features like the following in their new homes:
- Laundry rooms. Home buyers don’t want to have to lug their laundry to the basement or the garage. They want a laundry room that is conveniently located on the main level of the home.
- Patios and outdoor spaces. Home buyers are increasingly looking for homes with patios, decks, or other outdoor spaces where they can relax and entertain guests. Greenwich residents like to enjoy the outdoors as long as they can, before winter sets in!
- Updated kitchens. Kitchens and to a lesser extent, bathrooms, are key areas of focus for home buyers. An updated and stylish kitchen with modern appliances, fixtures and countertops can make a significant difference. Eat-in kitchens and large pantries, in particular, are attractive to buyers.
- Energy efficient lights, appliances and windows. Many home buyers appreciate energy-efficient features, such as double-pane windows, energy-efficient appliances, proper insulation, and modern heating/cooling systems with smart thermostats, which can save on utility bills.
- Low-maintenance features. Home buyers don’t want to spend their weekends mowing the lawn or fixing leaky faucets. They’re looking for homes with low-maintenance features that will save them time and money in the long run. This includes things like drought-tolerant landscaping, energy-efficient appliances, and durable flooring materials.
- Garage storage space. Home buyers need a place to store their cars, tools, and other belongings. A garage with ample storage space is a must-have for many home buyers.
- Exterior lighting. Exterior lighting is a great way to add both curb appeal and functional lighting to a home. Home buyers want a home that is well-lit at night, both for safety and security reasons.
- Walk-in closets. Home buyers like their homes to have walk-in closets, as they offer increased storage space, are easier to organize, and generally increase a home’s resale value.
- Home office. As more workers and employers embrace flexible work arrangements, home buyers increasingly look for home offices in their new homes – or rooms that can be converted to home offices. Connectivity and distance from main living areas are important considerations.
- Pet-friendly homes. Home buyers with pets may want to look for a home with a fenced-in yard or a pet-friendly community.
These are just some of the features that home buyers look for when evaluating a home for purchase. Individual preferences can vary widely, so it’s essential that home sellers and real estate agents understand the specific needs and desires of buyers. A skilled real estate agent can help match buyers with homes that align with their criteria.
