Thinking of selling? Home buyers today have specific features they value most, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) 2013 Profile of Buyers’ Home Feature Preferences. Buyers’ wants vary from region to region. For example, it’s not surprising that Southerners place a higher value on central air conditioning – although that feature was most desired by buyers overall. Basements were a big selling point with 41% of homes sold between 2010 and 2012 having them, but they were more desired in the Midwest and Northeast.
What will buyers pay more for?
- Central air
- New kitchen appliances
- Walk-in closet in the master
- Basements
- In-law suite
- Garage
Age also played a large part in desired features. For example, those over 55 and single women valued single story homes more and single men were more likely to want a finished basement. And, while it’s not surprising that location, location, location, is very important, that’s not something you can change. The NAR 2013 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers indicates that most people move within 11 miles of their current residence. Your best bet is to trust marketing your home to a professional real estate agent who knows how to reach the right target market locally. (Hint: Just putting it on the web is not going to do it.)
