While each buyer has certain preferences that are unique, many of them share a few common desires. If you’re thinking about selling your home, you need to understand what buyers really want so that you can position your home to sell quickly and for the best possible price. This article will share several insights about what the average buyer considers to be their house must-haves. You can use this information as you prepare to list your home.
1. Remodeled kitchens and bathrooms
These are the rooms that many potential buyers will want to see first when they visit a home during an open house or a private showing. While these can be costly renovations, they often provide a strong ROI when it’s time to sell your home. If you’re not willing to spend the money on a full remodel, consider how you might stage your kitchen and bathroom so that they will show to the best of their abilities. Start by thoroughly cleaning and removing clutter from each space. Don’t leave more than four chairs around your kitchen table, as this can make the room feel overly cluttered and busy. Finally, use scents to your advantage in each room. Light a candle if it’s safe to do so, or plug an air freshener into the wall.
2. Open spaces
Most new builds feature open concepts in the living room, dining room, and kitchen that bring together the entire space and make it feel larger than it would otherwise. If your main living spaces aren’t open, you might weigh the costs of knocking down a wall or two before listing your home. Having a more appealing floor plan can create greater demand for your home when you choose to sell.
3. Energy-efficient appliances
Replacing your older appliances with newer energy-efficient models will accomplish multiple goals. First of all, many modern home buyers prefer to purchase homes that won’t require as much maintenance. Older appliances are more likely to break down and require a replacement in the short-term future, and this turns off potential buyers. In addition, with energy costs continuing to rise, many people are concerned with saving money on fuel costs. Newer appliances are often more energy-efficient and will cost less to operate in the long run. In addition to purchasing new appliances, you may also think about installing new windows or replacing your garage door. These additions will improve your home’s insulation, leading to a decrease in energy costs.
4. Smart technology
Smart technology in your home automates many common household functions. These devices can be controlled on your phone, and many of them can function on a preset schedule. For example, smart lighting can turn on and off during specific times of the day, and smart thermostats will adjust the temperature in your home based on the weather outside. You can also use a smart smoke detector or carbon monoxide detector to receive alerts about potential issues even when you’re away from home. These devices will also notify your neighbors and contact the local authorities.
5. Outdoor living spaces
Outdoor living spaces have increased in popularity over the past several years. Home buyers really want a designated place to sit and enjoy their morning coffee or connect with friends and family in the evening. If your home doesn’t already have an outdoor living space, consider what it would cost to build a deck or patio. Also, make sure your existing outdoor living spaces have plenty of lighting to continue enjoying the space even after the sun goes down.
6. Plenty of storage space
The rule of thumb is that a home should have a closet in every bedroom, plus two additional hall closets. Older homes sometimes don’t have this much storage space, but there are still ways that you can increase your home’s storage capacity. Perhaps you install built-in shelves or cabinets to hold additional belongings. If your kitchen lacks sufficient storage space but you have enough room to add an island, this can also be a great option.
7. Neutral colors
Paint colors make a major difference in each room in your home. The right colors can help spaces appear larger and brighter and set a positive emotional tone. Most interior designers recommend avoiding colors such as red or purple in your bedroom. Red is the color of blood and can signal potential danger or threats in your brain. Purple rooms are known to be the hardest to fall asleep in, and purple can be a hard color to pair with other decorations. When choosing color schemes, opt for neutral colors like white, gray, and beige. If you really want to add more color to a room, you can do so by using accent pieces.
Sara Vaughn thoroughly understands what buyers are currently looking for, partly because she has represented many of them throughout the home-buying process. She has sold over 100 homes in her eight years on the job, and she uses her extensive knowledge of the local market to help her clients advance toward their goals. She would love to partner with you as you get ready to sell your home
Sara Vaughn thoroughly understands what buyers are currently looking for, partly because she has represented many of them throughout the home-buying process. She has sold over 100 homes in her eight years on the job, and she uses her extensive knowledge of the local market to help her clients advance toward their goals. She would love to partner with you as you get ready to sell your home