Have you ever wondered what home features buyers want the most in their homes? Utilising the most accurate and up to date data sources we have compiled what the most desirable home features buyers want. If you’re looking for inspiration for your dream home we’ve got a blog full of ideas for you, as well as property determining factors for those of you looking to sell. Let’s jump in.
A garden or outside space
This shouldn’t come as a massive revelation, particularly if you live so close to areas of outstanding natural beauty like in the Yorkshire Dales for example. Over 60% of buyers in the UK reported that they want a garden or outdoor living space, which thankfully is plausible outside of major cities such as London and Birmingham. A recent study found that 52% of homeowners desire a garden or outdoor space and less than 30% were willing to compromise on having their dream home. Thankfully with 89% of households having a garden, this is less competitive now outside of major cities. 82% of buyers also want a patio area for hosting and entertaining guests.
A driveway or parking space
We all want to avoid on street parking charges and to be able to relax knowing that our vehicles are safely tucked away on our driveways away from any possible nicks and knocks. The type of driveway is also important here as it contributes towards the exterior appearance of your home. You could convert your driveway with block paving, opt for a tarmac or resin driveway, or even opt for a gravel/chipping drive. Whichever you choose, ensure that it is consistent and covers the full area as nothing drives down your home’s value and perception of buyers like potholes on a driveway.
A front porch
On the subject of improving the outward appearance of your home, (and giving you a place to comfortably take off your footwear) 81% of buyers advised they wanted a front porch. Here it is important whether buying or selling to ensure the materials used complement the style of your home. You could further enhance this with exterior lighting which 87% of buyers have advised they want. Exterior lighting adds more value in terms of security, evening hosting, and curb appeal. Put simply, a dim light at the front isn’t going to cut it. Think elegant. Use landscape lighting. Make your home a feature to look at. You may need to hire an electrician to wire new lights however.
Double Glazed Windows
83% of buyers advised that they desire a home that already has double glazing installed. Which is no surprise given the current level of energy costs. You may find yourself put off from wanting to upgrade your windows in the cooler weather but if you are looking to achieve the highest possible value for your home this is a must! You may also like to know that window installation can be completed in under a day in some instances. If you don’t have the most energy efficient windows and live in West Yorkshire, our sister company Bingley Windows and Glass can certainly help.
An additional room
Aside from the obvious in wanting a spare room, 82% of buyers also want a laundry room with 63% thinking this is best placed on the 1st floor. Which makes sense to save you from carrying all your laundry downstairs! A laundry room also means you can shut the door which if you have a loud or noisy tumble dryer can provide you with a greater sense of relaxation. In order to improve the value or to make the most of a laundry room, you could paint the walls, add storage capacity such as shelves, add a rack on the back of the door, or even install a built-in ironing board. Purchase a stackable washer and dryer and you could make even more space and fill it with a folding table. A laundry room is not the only desired type of room with 81% also looking for a walk-in pantry. Here you can make the most of your space again with shelving, racks, back of the door racks and cupboards. If you are looking to convert an area of your home or add an extension, we can of course help facilitate this.
Hardwood floors
Who doesn’t love a hardwood floor? 81% of buyers advised they’d desire a hardwood floor in at least one area of their dream home. However with 60% of buyers also wanting to purchase a new home, the scarcity of hardwood floors (before even considering their expense!) has risen as a result. Hardwood floors can require a lot of maintenance, so if you are considering upgrading your flooring to sell your home you can find out more about flooring here.
Garden Office
Last but by no means least is outdoor office space. It might come as no surprise after the pandemic and with people forced to work from their homes, that there is still a massive culture in the UK for flexible working. This means more and more people are demanding specific office space within their home, rather than simply bunging a desk in the corner of a child’s bedroom, like so many of us had to do during those lockdowns. According to Rightmove, property listings which mention the keywords ‘outdoor office’, or ‘garden office’ have increased by over 1000% when compared to a decade ago! What really sets houses apart is a dedicated office in the garden, which has mains electricity power, heating/air conditioning, and of course the all-important Wi-Fi!
Contact Us
Do you agree with the studies? What is your most desired feature in a home? If you would like any support in converting, extending or renovating your home, we are here to help. Visit our website to find out more or contact us on 01943 630038 for a non-obligatory consultation.