Which Features Add The Most Value To Your Home?
Building a custom home is an investment. Your main goal is to make it the best home for your family, of course, but it’s also important to think about resale value. Even if you plan to stay in your home for many years, life can change your plans—a fantastic new job offer in another state that you can’t turn down, a growing family, or a desire to downsize.
When you add these five features to your custom home, it’ll have a higher appraisal value and be more attractive to future buyers.
Feature 1: A dedicated home office.
A home office is a major bonus for most buyers, whether they work fully remote or are just remote a couple days per week. This feature actually just appeared for the first time on the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) list of most-wanted features. This is one of those great features that buyers will pay up for. Having a dedicated space—even for those who don’t work from home—has become a must-have for busy parents and professionals.
Feature 2: Outdoor living space.
Demand for outdoor living space has been steadily rising the past few years. Make the most of your outdoor space by creating an area you (and potential future buyers) can relax and unwind. This can be a porch, deck, or short walking path through a garden. It doesn’t have to be a huge expansive space, but it should pack a punch when it comes to entertaining and relaxation options!
Feature 3: Low-maintenance materials.
This one’s obvious; everyone wants to spend less time, effort, and money maintaining their home. A house built with low-maintenance materials (both interior and exterior materials) will be appealing to anyone, but especially to people who have already owned a home, as they know how laborious home upkeep can be.
Feature 4: Energy efficiency.
Building an energy-efficient home benefits both you and the environment. Your home should include an air seal package, a house wrap, an energy-efficient heating and cooling system, and smart home technology. According to a Freddie Mac white paper, homes with higher energy efficiency levels sell for 3-5% more than homes with lower levels.
Feature 5: Flex space.
Flex space is a must-have. Having an area that can be used for multiple purposes at once, or different purposes over time, really maximizes your space. Building a custom home with flex space means that your home can change to meet your needs in different seasons of life, as well as the needs of any future buyers.
The best time to add these five features is when you’re building a custom home, rather than during a future remodel. You’ll enjoy living in your home more, and you’ll set yourself up for a successful future sale if you ever decide to move.
Dream. Build. Live.