No buyer is the same – each one has their own priorities and preferences as they walk through the front door of your house or apartment. Their idea of perfect living will always align to their lifestyle.
So, no matter how much effort you put into preparing your home for sale, the majority of buyers will decide it doesn’t work for them. And that’s normal.
The good news is that you only need two or three prospective buyers to create a little competition to maximize the value of your home.
So what’s it going to take in 2026 to attract the most buyers?
The lifestyle website, The Spruce, has just surveyed a selection of Realtors to find out which features of a home will command a premium this year.
Here’s what they said:
The new luxury – Function is the new luxury! In 2026, buyers are looking for homes that just “work”. They want a kitchen where the family can gather to eat and share their day. They want open-plan living but also quiet and privacy. Most of all, they desire a home that offers connection.
Oversized kitchens – So much seems to be about the kitchen in 2026. Realtors say folks are seeking a big kitchen to be the heart of the home. Large islands are right at the top of their list of desires. Even better, say agents, is an island with seating. If the kitchen is stylish and functional, then it’s a perfect selling point.
Home gyms – Health is a priority, and a dedicated space for a home gym will be one of the most commonly requested features. It doesn’t really matter if it’s in a converted garage or the basement. We’re not just talking about somewhere to store and lift weights. Buyers are seeking a space for yoga and even meditation.
Even greener – Realtors say buyers will increasingly seek homes that not only use less energy but cost less to run. Solar power is at the top of many lists. Storage batteries and EV chargers are going to carry a premium this year.
Automate it – The desire for an increasingly smarter home will be in demand for buyers in the mid- and luxury ranges. Smart thermostats are just one example. They will not just regulate temperature but reduce the carbon footprint and utility bills.
Lighting that can be controlled by your phone is also on the wanted list.
Flexible spaces – One danger when selling is to have rooms that don’t appear to have a purpose. But that might no longer be a problem this year. The Spruce survey says buyers want “flexible spaces” to accommodate a myriad of purposes. These might range from embracing multigenerational living to a remote working environment. So, dens, lofts and basements are significant ticks in the box for this year’s buyer.
Outdoor kitchens – Many buyers over the past five years have sought a property where they can entertain friends and family. This year, buyers are raising the bar. A barbecue in the corner of the backyard is no longer sufficient. An outdoor kitchen will now be on their list of most desirable features.