Congratulations – you’ve been pre-approved for a mortgage and started your journey to achieving homeownership! Now comes the fun part – choosing the must-haves for your dream home. You’ve figured out your budget, square footage, and the number of bedrooms requirements, but what about other features? 

If you haven’t decided on additional features for your new home, the experts at Lakeshore Realty have compiled a list of the most popular home features sought by homebuyers:

Laundry Room

According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), a separate laundry room tops the list of desired home features. Laundry rooms are a must-have feature because of the convenience and high functionality they bring to a home. Having a dedicated space for washing, drying, ironing, sorting, and folding clothes helps keep the mess out of the rest of the living space. 

Eat-In Kitchen

Eat-in kitchens are also a must-have for buyers who were polled by the NAHB – especially for those with children. It’s a space where families can gather in the morning for breakfast, in the afternoon for completing homework, and in the evening for dinner to share highlights from their day. Other top kitchen features include cabinet and pantry storage, a breakfast nook, wine cooler, and stainless steel appliances. 

Energy-Efficient Windows and Appliances

Years ago, energy-efficient appliances were a nice option – but today’s homebuyers expect energy-efficient windows and appliances. Buyers looking to save energy and money on utility bills are drawn to homes with Energy Star-rated windows and appliances. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, energy-efficient windows can cut cooling and heating costs up to 12 percent. Energy Star-rated windows have a Low-E glass coating and are filled with inert gas, reducing heat gain and loss in your home. Energy Star-certified appliances can also save on utility bills. For example, an energy-efficient washer & dryer can result in up to $300 in savings annually.  

Hardwood Flooring

According to a National Association of Realtors report, hardwood is the top choice for homebuyers when it comes to flooring. Hardwood flooring not only offers a clean and uniform look but is also easier to maintain and more durable than carpeting. Hardwood floors can be refinished to extend their lifetime, while carpeting needs replacement every ten years. 

Patio

Thanks to home renovation reality shows, homebuyers have come to expect the same eye-catching features they see on TV in their future home. It’s also the most wanted outdoor feature, according to a recent NAHB survey. When you see a home with a nice and upgraded backyard, you start envisioning your family and friends enjoying the space. Plus, as families are still spending more time at home, a patio expands your outdoor living space without the expense of a home addition. 

When it comes to staying on top of all of the latest real estate trends, trust your friends and experts at Lakeshore Realty. We pride ourselves on providing exemplary customer services and take every measure to ensure you are satisfied with all your real estate needs. To learn how Lakeshore Realty can help you with buying or selling a home, visit our website or call us at 828-456-4070 today!