What Do Home Buyers (and Renter's) Look For

As Real Estate Investors we are always keeping an eye what clients, home-buyers and renters, are looking for. The best ways to make a home appeal to today’s home buyers and renters is by knowing what they are looking for. Beyond location and price point these are the home features that home-buyers and renters find most desirable.

The Good…

• Open Concept Floor Plans
• Large Windows/Natural Light
• Move-in Ready Homes
• Upgraded Counters-tops, all materials
• Updated Windows - energy efficiency
• Large Master Bedroom Closets
  
• Updated Lighting Fixtures
• Wood Floors - hardwood and laminate
  
• Dedicated Laundry room/Facilities
  
• Available Parking- Particularly Off-Street
  

The Bad…

• Popcorn Ceilings
  
• Wall to Wall Carpet/Worn Carpet
• Small Kitchens and Bathrooms
• Minimal Natural Light
  
• Above-ground Swimming Pools
  
• Converted Garages
• Low Ceilings on the Main Floor
  
• Loud Location on a Busy Street
  

Notables

• Energy Efficient Appliances are becoming more important to home-buyers. This is becoming a standard in new construction homes.
• Granite Counter-tops, in particular,  are losing "wow" factor.
  
• Two-Story home with a bedroom on the main floor is gaining popularity among home-buyers.
• Giant Jetted Bathtubs are a big turn-off for most home-buyers.
• Both buyers and renters dislike "old' wallpaper and yet wallpaper is very common in new construction as a buyer preference.

*Based on median home prices in Ada and Canyon Counties ($229,900 and $142,000)