Must-Have Features in Today’s Market
- Scott Sweeney
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever scrolled through listings and thought, “Wait, everyone wants THAT now?”, you’re not alone. The definition of a “dream home” has evolved, and today’s buyers have a whole new checklist.
Whether you’re selling, buying, or remodeling, understanding what’s in demand can make all the difference, especially in competitive markets like Sacramento, Rocklin, and the East Bay.
Let’s break down the must-have features that are helping homes sell faster (and for more).
🌿 1. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Between rising utility costs and a growing eco-conscious mindset, buyers are loving homes that save money and the planet.
Hot features buyers love:
Solar panels (a huge plus in sunny NorCal!)
Tankless water heaters
Energy-efficient windows and insulation
EV charging stations
Real-life example: A Rocklin home with solar panels recently sold for $20,000 more than a comparable property without them — buyers saw the long-term value and monthly savings.
Quick tip: If you’re selling, highlight any eco-upgrades in your listing description. Even small touches like smart thermostats or LED lighting catch buyer attention.
💼 2. Work-From-Home Flexibility
Remote work isn’t going anywhere — and buyers want homes that can handle it.
Must-haves:
A dedicated home office (or a quiet corner with great lighting)
Strong Wi-Fi infrastructure
Bonus rooms that can flex between work, play, or fitness space
Pro tip: If you’re staging a home for sale, set up a simple desk and chair in a bright nook. Buyers immediately visualize productivity — and that emotional connection helps sell homes faster.
🍳 3. Updated Kitchens & Entertaining Spaces
Still the heart of the home! But buyers now want kitchens that blend function + social flow.
In-demand features:
Quartz countertops
Large islands with seating
Open floor plans connecting kitchen, dining, and living areas
Modern lighting and cabinet finishes
Fun fact: Zillow found that homes with “open-concept” in their listing descriptions sell 6% faster than others nationwide — and it’s even more pronounced in lifestyle-driven NorCal markets.
🌳 4. Outdoor Living Spaces
Northern Californians love the outdoors — and that’s reflected in today’s home trends.
Top outdoor must-haves:
Covered patios or pergolas
Outdoor kitchens or built-in BBQs
Drought-friendly landscaping
Low-maintenance turf
Real-life example: A seller in Elk Grove added a simple pergola and seating area for $5,000 — their home received multiple offers in the first week. Small investment, major impact!
🧺 5. Smart Home Features
Technology isn’t just for convenience — it’s becoming an expectation.
Buyers love:
Smart locks and doorbells
Smart thermostats
Home security systems
Integrated lighting and speakers
Quick tip: These upgrades often cost less than $500 but make your home feel next level to buyers.
🧭 The Takeaway
Today’s buyers want comfort, efficiency, and flexibility. Homes that fit their lifestyle now and their future plans later.
If you’re thinking about selling, focus your energy (and dollars) on updates that appeal to today’s priorities: smart tech, energy savings, and beautiful indoor-outdoor living.
Your home doesn’t need a total overhaul, just the right highlights to make it stand out in the market.
Scott Sweeney
Elk Grove Realtor
Serving Sacramento and beyond from the Bay Area to South Lake Tahoe
707 330 2324
CalBRE 01938720
About Scott Sweeney
SweeneySells
Full Time Realtor 13 Years +
Over 100 Families Served
Top 5% Producing Agent
Buying & Listing Specialist
Contract & Negotiation Ninja
CSUS Business & Marketing Graduate 2006
With quickly serving over a 100 families, Scott Sweeney has become a top 5% producing Realtor in the greater Sacramento area who has helped clients from the Bay Area to South Lake Tahoe. Scott has a Bachelor Of Science in Business Administration, with a concentration in Marketing from CSUS. His education, and extensive background in the hospitality, marketing, and real estate industries, have helped Scott to become one of the leading, and most sought after agents in the area.
Reach out to SweeneySells today, and take the first step towards your real estate goals!
📞707-330-2324
Top Producer 2016-2023
"I appreciate your business & referrals!"
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Schedule a call or zoom with us here! 👇
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