It’s a great time to sell your home. Inventory is still historically low, and sales have picked up as average 30-year mortgage rates have softened since their high in October 2023, according to Kiplinger. Interest rates are forecasted to continue falling this year, enabling buyers to be more choosy, and sellers will have to step up their game in a more competitive environment. Home supply is also growing; there were 9.1% more newly listed homes at the close of 2023 compared to 2022, according to Realtor.com data.

Here are the top features potential buyers look to find.

• Designated laundry room – More than anything else, homeowners want a designated laundry room in a separate area.
• Exterior Lighting – Illuminating a well-manicured lawn with exterior lighting is the most-wanted feature in a home. Additionally exterior lighting offers an added safety feature.
• Ceiling fan – Ceiling fans create a wind-chill effect that helps cool the room.
• Energy efficient appliances and windows- Energy-efficient windows trim heating and cooling costs. Energy Star qualified appliances are money-saving features.
• Patio – Outdoor areas offer more living space.

• Double kitchen sink – A double, side-by-side sink provides more options for organizing the kitchen work.
• Walk in pantry – This is the second most coveted kitchen feature allowing homeowners to store essentials and bulk items.
• Front porch – While most buyers want a front porch, some also want a rear porch. It should be covered and can be an extension of your living space.

• Hardwood floors main living are – Hardwood floors offer a natural look and is less allergenic.
• Full bath on main floor – full bath needs a sink, toilet and tub/shower. All ages prefer a full bath on the main floor rather than just a powder room.
• Energy efficient lighting – LED light bulbs that are EnergyStar-certified use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs. You could install LED bulbs that could be operated from your smart phone.
• Eat in kitchen – Space for eating, doing homework, crafting, conversing with the people doing the cooking are benefits of eat in kitchen spaces.
• Dining room – Some buyers still desire the charm and importance of sitting down at a dining room table.
• Walk in primary closet – Closet renovation can include an organization system with shelving units and hanging rods for clothes.
• Garage storage space – Buyers want lots of storage space.

If you want to get the most return on your investment, focus on features that most home buyers really want to see and that you’ll enjoy for as long as you live in the home. Consumer tastes can vary by region, so consult with your real estate agent to find out which home features are in high demand in your area, advises Dr. Jessica Lautz, vice president of demographics and behavioral insights for the National Association of Realtors.

Marilyn Tucker

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