Home Trends Buyers Are Looking for in 2025, According to Experts
Written by
Cynthia Measom
Edited by
Angela Corry
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Homebuyer preferences have changed in the years since the pandemic and what they’re looking for reflects that. Things like less open floor plans, dedicated workspaces and wellness amenities are just a few of the things catching their attention. Sellers who pay attention to these trends may find it easier to attract offers from homebuyers in 2025.
Here’s what experts advise sellers to keep in mind as they look to sell their homes in 2025.
Desired Features and Upgrades
Kori Sassower, founder and principal agent at The Kori Sassower Team, said that buyers seem to be looking for homes that have newer roofs and updated windows and mechanical systems.
She also said that large family rooms, higher ceilings, lots of windows and oversized kitchens with one or two kitchen islands are important. Additionally, she noted that natural colors are coming back and some homeowners are using them to soften the modern farmhouse look that was very popular in 2020-2024.
Emily Waldmann, real estate agent at Douglas Elliman, said she’s seeing a return to some formality of spaces, including a separate dining room.
“Additionally, we’re noticing that buyers are moving away from the more open floor plans,” she noted. “Many are gravitating towards a living space that is built around socialization and entertaining, separate from where they might watch TV, and a butler’s pantry or a kitchen that is slightly removed from the entertaining spaces. Each of these speak to the trend of hosting and entertaining guests coming back in the post-pandemic era.”
Energy-Efficient Homes
“Energy-efficient homes will continue to be very important to buyers,” said Sassower. “With inflation hitting buyers from every angle, the ability to have lower energy bills will be very attractive to buyers.”
Remote Work-Friendly Homes
Sassower explained that less-open layouts and more rooms with purpose have been the biggest change since remote work. She said that one or two home offices are essential because people need the ability to work in their home and have privacy.
“Many homes will have two parents remote working while their pre-school kids are hosting playgroups in the house,” she explained. “Separation of work and play is needed for the home to function well.”
Wellness Amenities
Waldmann said that wellness amenities are trending in a big way going into 2025.
“Many buyers are asking the question, “Where can I put a sauna or cold plunge tub?’, whether that be inside or outside,” she said. “Sauna and cold plunge set ups are extremely in demand, and many buyers have a preference on where they are located within the home depending on how they are planning on using them.”
Waldmann explained that some people incorporate a sauna or cold plunge tub into their morning routine and prefer them outside their primary bedroom/bathroom. Another option she said is to have the sauna or cold plunge tub outdoors by the pool so they can be used socially.
“Incorporating wellness amenities into a home is a trend we’re seeing continuing to grow, and with many buyers it is an important factor in the type of layout they’re looking for,” she said.
Additional Advice for Sellers
Sassower said that when you’re prepping your home for sale, making small changes can have a significant impact.
“Consider lightening your walls with a fresh coat of paint and replacing light bulbs with bright white ones to create a cohesive look,” she suggested. “In the kitchen, a new backsplash or countertop can drastically change the space’s appearance.
“Additionally, improve your outdoor landscaping. Ensure that the front of your home is visible, without being obstructed by trees and bushes. Removing some of this foliage will not only enhance the exterior but also allow more natural light to enter through the windows, brightening the interior of your home.”
Sassower said it may also be helpful to consult a home-staging expert for advice.
“Investing a bit of money upfront can lead to much greater profits when it comes time to sell.”
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