What Buyers are Really Looking for in a Home

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Selling

You want your home to stand out above the competition when selling but how can you do that when you may not know what buyers really want? Because we work with both buyers and sellers we see what sells, how fast it sells, and for what price and can assist sellers in setting up their listing for the biggest bang for their buck. Here are the 5 top things buyers are looking for in a home.

#1. A great kitchen.

The kitchen is probably the top thing the buyers look at when they enter a home. Is it practical, convenient, updated? These are the things the buyers want. A lot of homeowners are remodeling split-level home kitchens to remove the center pantry allowing for a larger island or more open space. Kitchens and older homes were often secluded and isolated, which is something buyers definitely steer clear of. Buyers want an open concept for easy entertaining. Updating appliances, countertops, cabinets, and hardware are all top priorities for homebuyers.

#2. Garage space.

Not all homebuyers are set on having a garage but a home without a garage will not get nearly as many looks or offers. Even an open carport is better than nothing. Many older homes simply don't have a garage at all so adding one on can be a benefit. According to a Kiplinger article, 85% of buyers want a spacious garage and typically are only about $3000 to add onto a home.

#3. Outdoor entertainment space.

Whether it's an outdoor kitchen, fireplace, or even a mounted TV, buyers are looking for an outdoor space they can enjoy with friends and family. Many buyers are looking for a fenced yard, potentially playground equipment if they have small children, a good seating area, and are generally spacious patio for entertaining.

#4. Storage space.

Buyers are looking for a lot of storage space. 83% of buyers want a walk-in pantry and/or a walk-in closet. If there's very little storage when it comes to cupboards, pantries, and cabinets, buyers will be turned off.

#5. A great neighborhood.

I know this is not something that homeowners can control, but if you live in a great neighborhood you already have this going for you. Great neighborhoods mean easy access to good schools, easy commute routes, quieter neighborhoods that are not off of busy streets, cul-de-sac streets, or even homes in homeowner associations that are regulated to be consistent and safe.

If your home doesn't have one of these features but it has one or two of the others, focus on the positive rather than on what the home doesn't have.

For more information on staging and listing your Palm Desert home give me a call today. We can go over all of the details about how to promote and market your particular house to get it sold for top dollar today.

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