Home Features That Buyers are Willing to Pay More For

When it comes to purchasing a home, most buyers come armed with a mental list of features that they would like to see included; however, while things such as school district, commute times, and location tend to be extremely important, a large percentage of buyers are actually willing to pay more for various interior features which may add to a home’s long-term value.

1.) FIREPLACES: While once considered a staple in all homes, the fireplace actually took a hit when televisions found their way into our daily lives. Gone are the days when people used to snuggle up next to a fire while listening to the radio; however, as more people spend time on things like tablets and e-readers, the demand for fireplaces has once again taken hold.

2.) NEWER HOMES: Sure, some people prefer the feel of an older home, but a large percentage of buyers love the fact that newer homes require a lot less maintenance and therefore, fewer annual costs. With this, a lot of younger buyers are also drawn to the fact that newer houses tend to be more efficient and therefore a lot more environmentally-friendly.

3.) KITCHEN ISLAND: Surprisingly, many home buyers list kitchen islands as very important on their list of must-haves. Often considered a family-friendly investment, islands provide additional homework and cooking space, while also giving the entire kitchen a more organized feel.

4.) HARDWOOD FLOORS: This one should probably come as no surprise since hardwoods tend to be longer-lasting and easier to clean than standard carpets; however, it’s important to note that older home buyers may place greater emphasis on carpets since warmth and energy conservation may be a larger concern.

5.) NEW KITCHEN APPLIANCES: Appliances can be expensive, so the last thing anyone wants is to come home after a hard day to find that the refrigerator is no longer working or the dishwasher is leaking on the floor. When most people move into a new home, they want to know that things will stay on the straight-and-narrow for solid amount of time, so it only seems natural that many buyers are willing to spend a bit more for homes with new appliances.

At the end of the day, investing in your home is important, but choosing the right investments is imperative. While installing things like granite countertops and stainless steel appliances may go a long way towards increasing the value of your home, taking the time to speak with an experienced agent who can assess your personal situation is still a smart move.

Whether you’re looking to market your home in the spring or you know that it’s something you’d like to do in the next few years, taking steps to get it ready in advance will pay off in the long run.

If you’d like some assistance or advice, please contact me. I’d love to help you along the way.

Pam Evans | Hello Pam Evans | www.HelloPamEvans.com | 678-778-6551