When it comes to buying a home, there are many factors that come into play that make it appealing to a buyer.
Location is obviously one of the key things buyers look for, but they also have a long list of other requirements and desires, such as the size of the house, the closeness to schools and amenities and the security of the neighbourhood.
Some features tend to stand out more than others and can be the key selling points for a house.
Here, I’ll take a look at some of the biggest selling points in a house and what buyers are looking for when making their purchase.
Some of the top selling points in a house are:
1. Location
Location is not only about which town or district a property is in.
It includes factors such as the proximity to shops, schools, and public transport, but also the feel and security of the surrounding neighbourhood.
Properties located in well-established, quiet, and safe neighbourhoods tend to be more attractive to families looking to buy.
Homes in urban areas with an active nightlife are likely to appeal more to young people who are not looking to start a family any time soon.
2. Space
When it comes to space, buyers are not just looking for a house with enough bedrooms and living spaces, but also for efficient storage solutions.
This includes closets, pantry spaces, and garage storage, as well as extra storage in the attic or basement.
For buyers who have a growing family, storage space will be an especially important consideration when buying a property.
Likewise, the size of the driveway and garage is a consideration as they’ll need to factor in parking space when their children get older and start driving.
3. Style and Design
Style and design can also include the use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, and the integration of eco-friendly features, such as solar panels or rainwater collection systems.
Properties that have a unique and stylish design, as well as a functional layout, tend to be more appealing to buyers.
Homeowners who have made their dwellings into smart homes and upgraded to eco-friendly solutions are at an advantage in a market where these factors are increasingly important.
Likewise, if your home already as the infrastructure for electric vehicle charging a buyer might choose your home over another property on their list.
4. Natural Light
Natural light can also include the use of large windows, skylights, and glass doors, as well as the orientation of the house towards the sun.
Properties with plenty of natural light tend to be more inviting and provide a healthier living environment.
In the Northern Hemisphere buyers are always draw to properties with as south facing garden so they can enjoy the sunshine long into the afternoon.
If you home doesn’t have particularly good natural light, there are ways to improve the lighting in your home when you sell your house.
5. Energy Efficiency
In addition to the smart, environmentally friendly features I’ve discussed above, the energy efficiency of a property is also something buyers scrutinise.
This can include the use of energy-efficient appliances, such as refrigerators and washing machines, as well as smart home technology, such as programmable thermostats and smart lighting systems.
Properties that have energy-efficient features tend to be more attractive to buyers, as they can save them money on their energy bills in the long run.
Efficient insulation and double glazing are also important as they’ll act as another cost saver during the winter months.
6. Renovations and Upgrades
Renovations and upgrades can also include the addition of outdoor living spaces, such as decks and patios, as well as the creation of open-plan living spaces, such as a great room or open kitchen.
Properties that have been recently renovated or upgraded tend to be more appealing to buyers, as they often provide a modern and comfortable living environment.
Home offices are also an appealing selling point as an increasing number of people now work remotely.
You also consider staging your home when selling to create the best first impression.
7. Proximity to Employment Centres
Buyers who commute to work or have a long commute may consider the proximity of a house to employment centres and transport links important factors.
Properties that are located near large towns or have easy access to motorways, highways and public transportation tend to be more attractive to buyers.
Likewise, if a buyer is someone who travels a lot for leisure, they’ll be looking for easy access to rail networks and major roads.
8. Schools
I’ve already touched on this, but for families, the school catchment area of a property is crucial.
They’ll consider properties that may not meet their requirements in terms of space or appeal in order to secure a place at their desired school.
Also, they’ll be prepared to pay a significant premium to get a home in the catchment for the school they’ve chosen for their children, or one which has excellent inspection results, including by bodies such as Ofsted.
The school catchment area is often considered to be the most important factor when parents of school age children are looking to buy a home.
9. Amenities
Buyers also consider the availability of amenities, such shops, restaurants, parks and recreation centres when making their purchase.
Properties that are located near these types of amenities tend to be more appealing to buyers, as they provide a convenient and enjoyable living environment.
Also, if a buyer as a specific hobby they’ll be looking to buy somewhere within easy reach of facilities that enable them to participate in it.
10. Community Character
The character and feel of the community can also be a selling point for buyers.
Properties located in communities with a strong sense of community, friendly neighbours, and a low crime rate tend to be more attractive to buyers.
We’ve all got different tastes – some buyers prefer a quiet, rural environment while others want to be in the thick of the nightlife.
11. Safety and Security
The safety and security of an area and property is important to buyers.
Properties that have security features, such as gated communities, security systems, and well-lit streets, tend to be more attractive to buyers.
Likewise, high crime rate areas are a big turn off for most people.
12. Outdoor Space
Buyers always consider the size and quality of the outdoor space when making their purchase.
Properties with large gardens, attractive landscaping, and outdoor living spaces tend to be more attractive to buyers, although you’ll need a bigger budget to afford these extras.
Likewise, people often consider the games they can play with their children in the back garden, such as football.
Conclusion
These are some of the biggest selling points in a house and what buyers are looking for when making their purchase.
If you keep your home in good condition and tend to any minor repairs before putting it on the market you’ll find your property sale is a much smoother process.
