Home Features Most Wanted  By Buyers In 2020

It's always useful to know what today's home buyer is looking for in terms of features.

So we were very interested to read a recent report by Kiplinger.com that had the added advantage of taking several similar surveys into account to arrive at a definitive "Most Wanted" feature list.

And here it is, in descending order:

  • Laundry Room
  • Appliance and Window Energy Efficiencies
  • Patio
  • Ceiling Fans
  • Garage Storage Space
  • Exterior Lighting
  • Walk-In Pantry
  • Hardwood Floors
  • Master Bedroom Walk-In Closet
  • Eat-In Kitchen
  • Dining Room

Of course no two buyers want exactly the same, but the list was drawn from the averages of different surveys, so it's arguably quite a reliable indicator of what's generally in favor.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect is that some of the features can be achieved relatively inexpensively.

A laundry room, wanted by 91% of all those questioned, just requires a spare room with appropriate electrical connections, plumbing and air venting. Garage storage space may simply be a matter of being tidy and decluttering. Adding more ceiling fans is another relatively inexpensive upgrade. Better energy efficiency can be achieved by sealing building envelope air leakages and, for example, applying special heat resistant film to your windows.

Of course should you decide to remodel to introduce some of the more expensive features in the list, as mentioned in our last email, you need to consider that, in most cases, the investment cost won't be recouped at sale time. That being said, of course, it's difficult to put a price on having a home that is likely to tick the most common feature boxes, greatly enhancing the quality perception of potential buyers.

Let's not also overlook that national averages also tend to gloss over regional variations. Here in Utah, for example, it's a fair bet that a basement would figure on this list.

We hope this information is helpful and we're always available to discuss optimal ways to present your home at sale time, so don't hesitate to get in touch with us.