Buying a home can mean lots of things. Homeowners finally have a space of their own, something they can customize and find privacy within, unlike an apartment. After all, nothing screams apartment living like communal laundry machines. So, when first-time homebuyers jump into the market they have one simple request: they would like a laundry room.
A recent report by the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) ranked the features and design trends that are most desirable to homebuyers. The laundry room was ranked as “essential” by 45% of homebuyers and “desirable” by another 38%. That means that 83% of buyers in the market will be looking for that dedicated laundry space.
When it comes to highlighting features in your next listing or searching for the perfect property for your homebuyers, keep these designs and trends in mind.
Outside living spaces
Ranked as essential or desirable by 78% of homebuyers, outdoor living spaces have exploded in popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic. Homeowners want space to care for their mental and physical health and a large part of that involves getting outside.
According to the report, “Builders saw a large jump in the demand for exterior amenities, such as patios, decks and porches.”
Square footage
Most homeowners will compromise on some of their wants or needs on the road to their dream home. One of the features they are most willing to compromise on is size.
“We’re learning that if we use less space, we can spend more on details and finishes to make rooms such as bathrooms feel more luxurious,” Donald Ruthroff, founding principal at Design Story Spaces LLC, said. “And people will pay a little more for solutions, such as cabinetry add-ons that eliminate dead space, that add utility.”
In 2022, the average square footage of newly built homes declined, a statistic that builders estimate is because of rising home costs.
Security cameras
Also ranked by 78% of buyers as desirable or essential were security cameras or other security features. Homeowners want to feel safe within their homes, especially given how much time they spend there. This trend is consistent between first-time buyers and repeat buyers alike.
When a property is listed with a laundry room, a spacious patio for entertaining and security features, homebuyers may be willing to sacrifice the square footage. However, enough space to live and work in a healthy way is still top of mind with buyers.
Especially when you are working with first-time buyers, use these features as starting points to gauge what is really important to them in a home. Buyers may have simpler wish lists than you think.