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Sales of new homes are projected to surge again in 2026, according to US News & World Report. So what are the features of the most attractive homes?
The salary needed to buy a luxury home in every state
eco-friendly savings
Energy costs have increased for many people across the country. According to the latest, the cost of electricity today is an average of 5.5% higher than a year ago, and natural gas is 13.8% higher. federal data.
Environmental consciousness in homeownership today includes not only installing solar panels, but also sustainable materials and energy-efficient features that save money over time.
“My clients have walked away from beautiful listings because the home had poor insulation or outdated systems that translated into high utility bills,” said licensed Realtor, entrepreneur and president Omar Renner. Florida Cash Home Buyers, LLC.
Melanie Musson, a real estate finance expert Quote.comSharing more details, he said, “Solar panels, geothermal heat pumps and other energy-efficient features will be popular. There is less incentive for people to pay for these upgrades without the tax credit, so it’s a benefit if a home already has energy-saving products.”
Every square footage counts
Thoughtful use of square footage, rather than just large square footage, will increase attractiveness to home buyers. So buyers can stay away from long, unused hallways and awkward nooks.
“We will see a shift in which thoughtful design will begin to matter more than size in itself. As I often tell clients, ‘Homes that age well are the ones that age well for how people live,'” said Evan Harlow, a Realtor. maui elite property.
homes with smart features
Features like smart thermostats (think: Nest) are no longer a buyer’s luxury but an expectation. Whether it’s a video doorbell, integrated entertainment system, automated lighting, or something else, buyers see the convenience and value of these popular features.
The US smart home market size was estimated at $36.38 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $403.09 billion by 2034. priority research.
flexible room plans
Multifunctional spaces that facilitate multitasking and adaptability depending on your needs are in demand. Although this doesn’t necessarily mean an open floor plan, it does mean flexible use of practical space.
“You can now use one room as an office, then easily move it to a different area for senior parents as they grow up or for adult children as they find their way in the world,” said Renner. “It’s becoming harder for young adults to finance their own home, but they also don’t like the ‘living with their parents’ label.
“Homes with layouts that allow homeowners to stay in one portion and give loved ones separate spaces to themselves, all under one roof, negate the need to move when circumstances change.”