Top Home Features That Help Sell Your House Faster in Today’s Market

According to Kiplinger, here’s how today’s buyers prioritize home features and how you, as a seller or buyer, can leverage them to make a smart investment.

1. Laundry Room

• 86% of buyers want this feature

• Installation cost: $1,300–$15,000, depending on location and finishes

A dedicated laundry room is at the top of buyers' wish lists—and it's easy to see why. It offers a neat, organized space to manage laundry out of sight, keeping living areas tidy and functional.

If you're adding one, the basement is usually the most cost-effective placement—existing utility hookups and an open layout simplify the project. Upgrade your washer and dryer to Energy Star-certified models to reduce energy consumption. Complete the space with bright lighting, a utility sink for pre-soaking, and cabinets or countertops for folding and storage.

2. Patio or Outdoor Living Space

• 86% of buyers want this feature

• Installation cost: $2,028–$6,013

Outdoor living is a huge draw in today's market. A well-designed patio allows buyers to envision lounging, hosting, and enjoying life alfresco.

Patios—built from concrete or pavers—are more affordable and lower maintenance than wood decks or porches. While they may offer slightly lower ROI than decks, they still deliver excellent lifestyle appeal and improved resale value.

3. Energy Star Windows

• 83% of buyers want this feature

• Cost per window: $450–$1,400

Energy efficiency is non-negotiable for modern buyers. Energy Star-rated windows—featuring multi-pane glass, insulated frames, and weather stripping—can reduce heating and cooling costs by around 12%. Plus, you can often claim up to $600 in federal tax credits for qualifying installations.

Highlighting these savings in your marketing not only appeals to eco-conscious buyers but also positions your home as smart and cost-effective to maintain.

4. Exterior Lighting

• 82% of buyers want this feature

• Installation cost: $2,000–$6,000

  
  

Beautiful, well-designed exterior lighting enhances curb appeal and safety. Walkway lights, spotlights, and motion-sensor fixtures help a home "pop" at dusk—and offer security after dark. When spotlighted in listings, well-lit homes stand out and feel more welcoming.

5. Ceiling Fans

• 81% of buyers want this feature

• Cost per fixture: $185–$4,618 (including installation)

Ceiling fans are both practical and stylish. They create a cooling breeze equal to lowering your thermostat by up to 4°F, helping reduce energy bills. According to Energy.gov, pairing a fan with an AC allows homeowners to raise the thermostat comfortably. Ensure your fan hangs 10–12 inches below an eight-foot-high ceiling for optimal airflow.

6. Garage Storage

• 81% of buyers want this feature

• Cost to add storage: $600–$2,600

Buyers love organized living spaces, and garages are no exception. Built-in storage systems—pegboards, shelving, lighting—transform garages into functional workspaces. Adding dedicated storage shows buyers you’ve maximized every inch of your property, which they’ll happily pay for.

7. Front Porch

• 81% want a front porch; 75% want a rear porch/deck

• Installation cost: $4,600–$22,000 for 200 sq ft

Front porches provide a friendly transition between outdoors and indoors—ideal for sipping coffee or greeting neighbors. They offer curb appeal and comfort, protecting from the sun and rain. Opt for at least six feet of depth for seating; ten feet if you want space for dining. And if you prefer more privacy and light, a rear deck might deliver better ROI at a lower cost.

8. Hardwood Floors in Main Living Areas

• 81% of buyers want this feature

• Cost: $6–$25 per square foot

Hardwood floors are durable, easy to clean, hypoallergenic, and timeless. They last for decades when properly maintained, and can be refinished periodically. For a budget-friendly alternative, high-quality engineered wood, like Pergo, typically costs $4–$20 per square foot and offers similar appeal.

9. Full Bath on the Main Level

• 80% of buyers want this feature

• Cost: $2,500–$15,000, depending on scope

A main-level full bathroom—complete with sink, toilet, tub, and shower—makes daily life easier. It supports families, guests, and multi-generational living. Converting a powder room can often achieve this upgrade inexpensively. Consider walk-in showers or accessibility features like pocket doors and grab bars to broaden appeal.

10. Energy Star Appliances

• Widely expected by buyers.

• Cost: $150–$350 per appliance

Energy Star-certified appliances are smart investments. They reduce utility costs across their lifetime—washing machines alone can save roughly $550 in electricity. Many utility providers offer rebates, and federal programs often subsidize heat pumps and geothermal options. Including these in your listing underscores energy savings and modern convenience.

11. Walk-in Kitchen Pantry

• Highly desirable among buyers

• Cost: $1,500–$20,000, based on size and finishes

A walk-in pantry adds huge value for families and bulk shoppers. Typically 5×5 feet, with U-shaped shelving and countertop space, a pantry keeps kitchens tidy and organized. Buyers appreciate easy access to food prep essentials and ample storage.

12. Landscaping

• Strong ROI potential

• Cost: $2,000–$50,000, depending on scope

Smart landscaping—healthy lawns, mature trees, flagstone walkways—enhances curb appeal and can boost value by over 10%. Projects like planting and mulching can yield 100–104% ROI. Keep designs balanced, seasonal, and complementary to your home’s architecture.

13. Table Space in the Kitchen

• 78% of buyers want this feature

• Cost of an island with seating: $4,000–$5,000

Eat-in kitchens are essential for family-oriented homes. Whether it’s a banquette, island, or small dining area, buyers love spaces that serve multiple purposes—eating, homework, and conversation. Removing a non-load-bearing wall can create a nook for as little as $1,000; islands offer a practical, flexible alternative.

These features serve as a valuable guide for both sellers and homebuyers:

Stage with purpose. Showcase your laundry room, outdoor space, and pantry in a way that highlights how they enhance everyday living.

By blending comfort, efficiency, and practicality, your listings can not only stand out but feel like a place today’s buyers already live in—secure, functional, and full of heart.

Contact our team, and we’ll help you identify which upgrades can increase your home’s value — or which features to look for when buying, so you can make a smart, long-term investment.

Source: kiplinger.com