10 Must-Have Features for Your New Home

In today’s competitive real estate market, buyers demand the newest features and amenities at a higher price point. Homeowners should be prepared to pay more for them.

One of the most sought-after home features is outdoor living spaces. These extend indoor living space outside and offer homeowners a chance to unwind with friends and family.

1. Energy-Efficient Design

Energy-efficient design is an essential feature to consider when searching for your new home. Not only does it reduce energy consumption, but it also creates a comfortable atmosphere for you and your family to live in.

The building envelope includes insulation which helps reduce the load on your HVAC system and saves energy. Furthermore, it absorbs moisture from the air to protect walls from being damaged.

2. Smart Technology

Smart technology enables homeowners to automate many household tasks. Not only does this save energy and enhance security, but it may also boost resale value of their property.

Today’s new homes come equipped with an array of smart devices, from thermostats to cameras and lighting control. These components work in concert with a central hub which enables users to remotely access and manage all their home features.

3. Custom Shelving

One of the most beneficial home improvements you can make to your space is custom shelving. Not only does it offer plenty of storage, but it also adds visual interest to your decor.

Built-in shelves are an essential element in many types of interior design, appearing in every room of the house. Not only do they add visual interest and character to a space, but they’re also great for creating storage solutions that may otherwise go untouched when new construction or remodeling projects take place.

4. Outdoor Living Spaces

When planning outdoor living spaces, it is essential to take into account your requirements and how you wish to use the area. Will it be a place for entertaining large groups or providing you and your family with some peace and quiet?

Create an outdoor area that is both stunning and practical, by selecting furniture and decor to suit your lifestyle.

5. Flex Spaces

Flex spaces are an excellent way to add value to your home. They enable you to customize the space according to your family’s current and future needs.

Flex spaces can be utilized for a number of purposes, such as gym or office use. Game rooms, home theaters and even nurseries make great uses of this type of area.

6. Large Walk-In Closets

Walk-in closets are one of the most essential features in your new home. Not only do they provide ample storage for clothes, shoes and accessories; but they also help organize your belongings so they’re easily accessible.

Walk-in closets not only offer storage for clothes and accessories, but they can also double as dressing rooms. In fact, a large walk-in closet may even include its own vanity area with drawers and mirrors.

7. Mud Spaces

Mud rooms are typically situated near the back door or garage entry. They serve as a transitional space that keeps mess away from other parts of the house, providing kids with somewhere to play before school or parents with somewhere to take off their shoes after a long day at work.

Mudrooms are becoming more and more commonplace as homeowners search for extra storage options. Mudrooms provide the ideal place to keep everything from rain boots to sports equipment organized neatly in one convenient place.

8. Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats make it simple to save energy and lower your utility bill with ease, using artificial intelligence to monitor and control your heating and cooling systems remotely. With them, you don’t have to be home when they learn your preferences over time.

They track your energy use and present it to you in an easily-understandable monthly report. Furthermore, they are capable of connecting to your home’s Wi-Fi, enabling you to adjust temperature settings from anywhere.

9. Natural Light

Natural light offers numerous health advantages and can lift one’s spirits. It also increases vitamin D levels – essential for immune system regulation, body weight maintenance and cognitive functioning.

Additionally, it helps reduce odors and freshen up the air, making it more comfortable to live in. And as an extra bonus, it saves money on energy bills – always a beneficial thing!

10. Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen is a great addition to your home and is definitely worth the investment. Whether or not you plan on selling it in the future, adding such a feature can increase its value and make your property more desirable to potential buyers.

An outdoor kitchen is also an effective way to save on energy expenses, since you won’t be needing your air conditioner while cooking outdoors.