Are you selling a property in Croydon, Purley or Surrey? You'll know that it can be a daunting task to attract viewers and get offers on your property because how do you really know what buyers want when searching for a new home?
To help you, our expert team of estate agents in Purley have come up with a definitive list of the things home buyers want. So, if you're looking to sell your property in the near future, read on to discover the ten most in-demand features buyers look for in a new home!
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The 10 Most In-Demand Things Home Buyers Want
1. Open-Plan Living Spaces
Gone are the days of compartmentalised living. Today's home buyers are on the hunt for spacious, open-plan designs that allow for flexibility and flow between rooms. The modern homebuyer’s preferences have evolved from enclosed rooms and defined spaces to open layouts.
Whether it's to accommodate a growing family, entertaining guests, or to encourage a more communal style of living, these versatile spaces are adaptable. Large spaces with natural light allows easy supervision of children, improved sociability and the feeling of spaciousness.
2. A Home Office
With remote working now commonplace, a dedicated home office is a necessity. Buyers prefer a space that's well-lit and quiet, offering a productive environment away from the hustle and bustle of family life.
Buyers now consider home office design details including storage options and a door or divider to separate the workspace from the living area, as this promotes better focus and allows for a healthier work-life balance.
3. Outdoor Spaces
You might have noticed a surge in garden renovations and patio makeovers in the past few years. That's because outdoor space is a premium feature.
Buyers want space for children to play and explore safely, and they also want to be able to eat and entertain outside, using their gardens as an extension of their interiors. Buyers are also seeking low-maintenance gardens with landscaping and smart use of space.
4. Energy Efficiency
The increasing costs of utilities have led to a surge in the popularity of energy-efficient homes among buyers. They are now seeking features that not only help save money but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable way of living.
Some popular energy-efficient features include double-glazed windows, solar panels, and smart home systems that offer innovative control over energy consumption from a smartphone or other device. Additionally, buyers are looking for efficient insulation, energy-saving appliances, and advanced heating systems, which all contribute to a reduced carbon footprint and lower utility expenses.
5. A Modern Kitchen
They say the kitchen is the heart of the home. And what buyers want is a kitchen that’s not just functional but also modern and stylish.
But beyond that, they're also seeking top-notch appliances which contribute to the kitchen's overall look and feel. Innovative storage solutions, like pull-out pantry systems, are also high on buyers' wish lists.
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6. En-Suite Master Bedroom
Who wouldn't want a hotel-like experience right in their bedroom? An en-suite master bedroom offers that extra bit of privacy and luxury that can make all the difference in your daily routine.
Buyers value a spacious master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom equipped with modern fittings, such as a large shower and a high-spec finish. Additionally, ample cupboard space or a walk-in wardrobe is desirable.
7. Location, Location, Location
Whether it's being in a top-rated school catchment or a stone's throw away from amenities, location is and will always be important to buyers.
Proximity to local amenities such as supermarkets, restaurants, parks, and healthcare facilities increases a property's appeal, considering the convenience and lifestyle benefits it offers to potential homeowners.
Additionally, properties in quiet neighbourhoods, those with stunning views, or situated near public transport links are highly sought after.
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8. Ample Storage
Let's face it: we all have too many belongings! Ample storage solutions, such as built-in wardrobes and loft spaces, are high on the list for potential buyers.
In addition, potential homeowners also appreciate other clever storage solutions. These include built-in shelves and pantries that make the best use of available space. A shed or a garage is also appealing.
9. Pet-Friendly Features
With pet ownership at an all-time high, features like a mudroom for your four-legged friend and a securely fenced garden are fetching a premium. A securely fenced garden provides not only safety but also a free space for pets to run around, play, and get their daily exercise.
Additionally, it gives pet owners peace of mind knowing their furry friends can enjoy the outdoors without wandering off.
10. Smart Home Tech
From video doorbells to smart thermostats, technology that simplifies life is a major selling point for today's home buyers. These advancements provide added comfort, convenience, security, and even energy savings - all wrapped into the modern smart home experience.
Video doorbells, for instance, not only provide convenience with features like contactless deliveries but also enhance home security by allowing homeowners to monitor their front doors remotely via smartphone apps.
Similarly, smart thermostats let residents control temperature settings based on their daily routines and preferences, optimising comfort while increasing energy efficiency.
Wrapping It All Up
When it comes to what are the things home buyers want, these are the top 10 features home buyers in Purley, Croydon & Surrey are craving! If you're in the market for a new home, consider this your ultimate checklist. And if you're considering selling, think about how many of these you can offer!
If you're still unsure about what to look for, reach out to Shinerocks. We specialise in property in Purley, Croydon & Surrey. Contact us on 020 8660 2010 or email enquiries@shinerocks.co.uk for a chat.
Not on the market yet? Generate a full report on your own property including an instant estimated valuation.
In the meantime, we've answered your most common questions about what buyers want!
Frequently Asked Questions About Prospective Buyers Demands
Are smart heating systems a popular feature among homebuyers?
Absolutely! Smart heating systems are in high demand as they provide residents with convenient temperature control, energy efficiency, and the ability to tailor heating preferences to their daily routines.
How crucial is parking space for property seekers?
Parking space remains a key consideration for buyers in Purley, Croydon & Surrey, adding both convenience and long-term value to a property, especially in urban areas where parking is often at a premium.
Do double glazing and storage space significantly impact the preferences of potential homeowners?
Absolutely! Double glazing enhances energy efficiency and reduces noise, making it a sought-after feature. Additionally, ample storage space, including built-in wardrobes and clever storage solutions, is highly valued by prospective buyers.
Is additional living space or a renovation project more appealing to first-time buyers?
It depends on individual preferences. Some first-time buyers in Purley, Croydon & Surrey seek properties with additional living space for immediate use, while others are attracted to a renovation project for the opportunity to customize and add value over time.