Top Home Features
We are obsessed with home improvement.
From around-the-clock programming on HGTV to online DIY personalities, Americans can’t seem to get enough inspiration for creating their dream home.
But aside from the personal sense of accomplishment, which home features are actually in demand from the market as a whole? Sure, you may love installing the built-in donut maker for your kitchen, but do buyers feel the same way?
Keep reading as we explore which home features are most in-demand for New Jersey buyers this year!
Versatile Kitchen Features
Kitchens sell houses.
Anyone with a rudimentary understanding of real estate knows that.
But it’s not lavish kitchens that buyers are willing to pay for. They want versatile, no-frills features that will facilitate day-to-day use.
New cabinets are a safe bet. They provide classy, concealed storage that any homeowner will need. Explore the best stone for kitchen countertops. While marble is a go-to for elegance, many buyers prefer granite and quartzite for their durability and ease of maintenance. When updating the appliances, be sure they match in color and are energy efficient.
Engineered Cladding
There is something about wood siding that just speaks to the sense of “home.”
It is warm. It is rustic. It can be painted in diverse colors.
Speaking of painting, however, wood must be regularly painted (typically every 5 years) to maintain its aesthetics and insulative properties. This makes it more trouble than it’s worth for modern homeowners.
As such, engineered cladding options (manufactured stone veneer, fiber cement, steel log, etc.) have seen a huge increase in demand. Long-lasting and low maintenance, these innovative siding materials can be fabricated in a wide array of colors and designs (including wood-look) to guarantee the ongoing aesthetics of the home.
Functional Exterior Spaces
Outside of the open interior, there is arguably no home design trend as powerful as the rise in functional exterior space. Once seen as a “bonus,” finished outdoor hangouts are now a must-have. As people increasingly work from home and become educated on the power of nature for health and wellness, homeowners need a way to get outside on their own property.
A deck addition is the most straightforward way to accomplish this. Connected to the home, a deck is a convenient location for grilling, sunbathing, or doing some computer work in the open air. Opt for engineered composite boards or bamboo decking. These materials are more sustainable than standard cedar, which requires significant attention to staining to prevent sun and water damage. Use low-profile deck railing around the stairs and periphery. This not only adds security, but it defines the space for a more finished feel. Also explore pergola options for shading and architectural intrigue.
Statement Doorways
More often than not, the simple, straightforward renovations are the ones that are the most financially valuable. This makes new doorways one of the best projects in terms of ROI. According to the Journal of Light Construction, both a garage door and entry door replacement recouped more than 100% of project costs in the Atlantic region in the past year. New doors improve energy efficiency. They promote security. Most importantly (for resale value, at least), they offer a stunning focal point that instantly adds an element of contrast against the rest of the home’s facade for next-level aesthetics.
Low Maintenance Landscaping
Curb appeal.
It’s a trendy buzzword in the real estate industry.
Rather self explanatory, it refers to how impressive the home appears to onlookers. While home features such as roofing, cladding, and windows are crucial to curb appeal, it’s the landscaping that sets it apart. The most stunning house will stand no chance if it is surrounded by weeds and litter.
Unfortunately, many traditional types of landscaping are rather high maintenance, making pristine curb appeal an uphill battle for many homeowners. As such, look at landscaping ideas that will maintain their stunning aspect with minimal ongoing attention. Native plants and rock gardens will reduce the need for frequent irrigation and fertilization. A modern gravel driveway will eliminate the cracking and staining associated with concrete surfaces. Composite patio pavers are easier to work with and offer superior drainage over traditional brick and flagstone floors.
New Windows
Windows are the eyes of the home. They are one of the few features that play an equally essential role in both the interior and exterior of the property. The clean, crystalline aspect infuses the home with new life. They also play a critical role in energy efficiency. In addition to sealing gaps in the window-to-wall transitions, they promote natural light flow into the home for reduced reliance on electrical sources.
Smart Home Technology
Another area that used to be a “bonus,” smart home technology is now becoming an expectation for buyers. Upon move-in, they want “plug-and-play” features such as integrated security systems and app-controlled lighting. In addition, homes with EV charging capabilities are increasingly in-demand as more and more people prefer clean transportation options.
Know Which Home Features Buyers Demand to Facilitate a Quick Sale
When updating the features in your home, it is important to know which are in demand from buyers. From versatile kitchens to smart home technology, consider any of the ideas listed above for renovations that pay in the Garden State. For more of the latest trends in New Jersey real estate, explore the content at Callinan Properties for the leading market insights!