A recent analysis by Realtor.com reveals that the most sought-after home features for 2025 are centered around sustainability and modern convenience. About 75% of individuals aged 50 and older express a desire to remain in their current homes or communities, according to research conducted by AARP. This trend reflects a significant shift in buyer preferences, as energy-efficient and smart-home features rise to prominence.
The Realtor.com study indicates that the fastest-growing home-listing features include WaterSense fixtures, which saw a remarkable increase of 289.6% in listings compared to the previous year. These fixtures, certified by the Environmental Protection Agency, consume at least 20% less water than standard models while delivering comparable performance. Homes featuring WaterSense fixtures command a median price of approximately $628,000, categorizing them as “rare” in the market.
Emerging Trends in Home Design
Another significant trend is the rise of biophilic design, which enhances the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. This category, including features like large sliding or folding glass doors and interior courtyards, experienced a 163% year-over-year increase in listings. Such designs promote a greater visual and physical relationship with nature, making them appealing to buyers looking for a more integrated living experience.
Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations also ranked high, with a 91.6% increase in listings. This feature is now categorized as “widespread,” reflecting the growing number of homeowners adopting electric vehicles as part of their sustainable living practices.
The analysis identified several other noteworthy features that are gaining traction among buyers. These include:
– WaterSense Fixtures (Rare)
– Biophilic Indoor/Outdoor Design (Widespread)
– Coastal Modern Aesthetics (Occasional)
– Net-Zero Ready Homes (Rare)
– EV Charging Stations (Widespread)
– Outdoor Low-Voltage Lighting
– Home Gym Spaces (Widespread)
– City Skyline Views (Occasional)
– Aged Metal Accents (Rare)
– Built-In Coffee Systems (Occasional)
These features highlight a broader market trend focusing on efficiency and “green” living, with many homeowners seeking to reduce utility costs while minimizing their environmental footprint.
Declining Interest in Traditional Features
Conversely, the analysis points to a decline in interest for certain traditional home features. Formal dining rooms with built-ins have experienced a steep drop of 25.3% from the previous year. As open-concept layouts become the standard in modern design, dedicated dining spaces are increasingly overlooked unless specifically requested.
Other features falling out of favor include three-car garages, which saw a decrease of 19.1%, and Old-World European aesthetics, down 18.4%. These declines suggest a significant shift towards more modern, functional designs that prioritize natural elements over ornate or oversized features.
The analysis conducted by Realtor.com draws on active for-sale listings from January to September in both 2024 and 2025, providing a clear snapshot of the evolving real estate landscape. As buyer preferences continue to change, understanding these trends will be crucial for sellers looking to maximize their property’s appeal and market value.
In conclusion, the real estate market is poised for a transformation as homebuyers increasingly prioritize sustainability, efficiency, and modern conveniences. Features that once defined luxury are being replaced by those that reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility and practical living. As we approach 2025, sellers should be aware of these trends to attract buyers and secure favorable sales prices.
