Last Updated on September 2, 2022
In a world where homes are flying off the market at record speed, it makes you wonder what buyers are actually looking for–if anything.
Although it seems like buyers wishing to relocate will quickly gobble up anything that’s for sale–thanks to the lack of inventory–there are major signs the market is cooling for now.
A more balanced market means buyers can be a bit more picky with their housing choices. But the good news here, today’s sellers don’t have to wonder what buyers actually want, thanks to the ample research available.
According to a recent survey, the most important aspects are the home in question being within a buyer’s budget and having the right number of bedrooms. Beyond those items that are hard for sellers to change, here are some items you can work on:
Ample storage
The single most want buyers cited of top importance (besides price and number of bedrooms) was ample storage. This even came in as more important to buyers than their desired number of bathrooms.
Even in a small house, you can create more storage areas. Here are some of the best tricks:
- Clear closets and leave them 30% empty. This gives the appearance of ample space. Use baskets and containers to group like items.
- Declutter toys and use storage bins, decorative baskets or under the bed storage to get a handle on the clutter. Here are more creative ways to store kids’ clutter if you need more storage solutions.
- Show off your garage’s storage capabilities by installing peg board for tools, hanging bikes vertically, and adding overhead storage racks. More tips here!
Private outdoor space
When the pandemic started and everyone stayed home, the idea of creating a secondary living space in the backyard was very appealing.
Today’s buyers are keeping that trend alive, with 71% citing the importance of a private outdoor space in their next home.
Don’t underestimate the importance of staging your outdoor area. Here are our best tips:
- Add an outdoor rug, colorful throw pillows and a conversational set for would be buyers to visualize the possibilities of your outdoor space.
- Bring in fresh florals in attractive flower pots.
- Pressure wash areas of concern and make sure yard is well manicured.
- Consider adding a fire pit. You can even DIY this project.
Kitchen preferences met
At 63%, buyers cited, “having my preferred style of kitchen” be very desirable in their next home.
Of course, “preferred style” is very objective, but thanks to research and buyer trends, we know what most people are looking for.
- Quartz countertops (or another low-maintenance stone)
- Upgraded tile backsplash
- Light and neutral colored cabinets
- Updated cabinetry hardware and lighting
Want even more ideas? Here are the kitchen improvements you should make before selling your home.
Other important tidbits:
- Even in a seller’s market, buyers are not waiving inspections. Only 12% waived inspections.
- 68% of buyers noted that 3D tours would be very beneficial when looking for homes online.
- 61% of buyers would prefer to schedule in person tours online
Keep reading:
The home staging secrets you need to know to earn top dollar for your home
Read more of the study referenced in the article here.
