There’s a lot of advice out there on how to make your home more appealing to buyers. But if you’re selling or building a home in the Indianapolis or Greater Indianapolis area, there’s really only one opinion that really matters: your buyers.
Knowing what buyers are looking for is key to making your home stand out.
Keep reading to find out what recent trends show that Indianapolis buyers want, features you should highlight when putting your home on the market, and where it might be worth investing in home improvements to make your home more appealing to buyers in 2024.
Size Trends
In general, there has been a noticeable trend toward smaller homes in the last few years. According to NAHB’s latest What Home Buyers Really Want study, buyers are becoming more willing to sacrifice square footage if it means they can get a home that fits their budget.
In fact, the average size of new homes is shrinking, with many buyers opting for homes around 2,070 square feet, compared to 2,260 square feet 20 years ago. While some buyers are still looking for larger homes, this should be good news for those who have smaller homes they are looking to sell. Trends point to the fact that more and more buyers don’t mind a smaller space as long as it has what they need.
Energy Efficiency
Another trend among buyers is the demand for energy-efficient homes. With rising utility costs and a growing awareness of environmental issues, people are looking for homes that won’t cost a fortune to heat and cool.
According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), energy-efficient features are among the most desired by homebuyers, with many rating them as “essential” or “desirable.”
This includes anything from ENERGY STAR-rated windows and appliances to features like energy-efficient lightbulbs, which can significantly reduce energy consumption.
Smart Features
Smart home features have seen significant growth in popularity over the past decade.
Recent data shows that more and more buyers are drawn to the convenience and security that come with things like programmable thermostats, security cameras, and video doorbells.
More than just high-tech novelties, these gadgets can add real value to a home by enhancing its safety, efficiency, and overall ease of management. All of this can make your home more appealing to buyers.
Outdoor Functionality
With more people spending time at home, having a place to relax or entertain outside has become more important than ever. In fact, in a recent survey 58% of agents recommend sellers make outdoor improvements, such as adding or fixing up your home’s back patio, porch, or deck.
Outdoor features like patios, front porches, and well-maintained lawns are highly desirable, according to NAHB data, as well. In fact, more than 80% of homebuyers rate these features as either essential or desirable when considering a new home.
Geist and Morse Lake are prime spots for buyers who love outdoor living, especially those who enjoy being near the water. In these areas, buyers are often looking for homes with amenities like boat docks, large decks, or even outdoor kitchens. These features not only add to the enjoyment of the property but also enhance the home’s appeal to those who want a lifestyle centered around outdoor activities and entertaining.
In more suburban neighborhoods like Carmel and Fishers, areas known more for their family-friendly appeal, well-maintained yards or patios can be a big selling point.
No matter where your home is located, a home’s curb appeal and outdoor space can make a big difference in how buyers perceive your property.
Kitchen Characteristics
In a survey of real estate agents across the country, 92% of agents say modernizing your kitchen is the best way to appeal to today’s buyers.
Whether it’s a small starter home or a larger family house, the kitchen is one area where data shows buyers aren’t willing to compromise. Many buyers appear to be looking for modern, functional spaces with plenty of storage and high-quality finishes.
Kitchen features like walk-in pantries, quartz countertops, and energy-efficient appliances are among the most sought-after by homebuyers. Even if the rest of the home is on the smaller side, a well-designed kitchen can make a huge difference.
In neighborhoods like Zionsville and Carmel, where homes are often priced at a premium, buyers expect these kinds of upgrades. In more budget-conscious areas, buyers may be more forgiving of an outdated kitchen, provided the home is priced accordingly.
However, if your kitchen lacks modern conveniences or appears outdated, it may be beneficial to invest in key renovations to make your home more attractive to potential buyers and align with market expectations.
Flexibility for Future
With the rise of remote work and changing family dynamics, flexibility in a home’s design has become more important than ever. Buyers are looking for homes that can adapt to their needs, whether that’s a home office, a playroom for the kids, or even space for multigenerational living.
A related trend in recent years is homeowners converting basement and bonus spaces into recreation areas, playrooms, or game rooms.
If your home has an unfinished basement or attic, these spaces are typically not included in the promoted square footage of the house. However, by making these areas “livable” or “finished,” you can include them in the home’s advertised square footage, significantly boosting your property’s appeal (provided the rooms meet ceiling height requirements.)
If you’re thinking about making these updates, be sure to patch any holes in the walls, replace any burnt-out light bulbs, and deep clean the carpet. If the carpet is in especially bad shape, it might be worth considering a replacement.
This can add substantial value and make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
Location, Location, Location
Location is always a key factor in real estate, and that’s no different in the Indianapolis area. Buyers are looking for homes that are close to good schools, shopping, and dining, but also offer a sense of community and safety.
Areas like Zionsville and Hendricks County are popular for their small-town charm and excellent schools, making them a top choice for families. On the other hand, neighborhoods like Carmel and Westfield offer a mix of suburban comfort and easy access to the city, which may appeal more to both families and professionals.
Wherever your home is located, think about the specific location benefits it offers. Whether it’s proximity to top-rated schools, easy access to major highways, or unique neighborhood amenities, highlighting these features can make a big difference when you’re putting your home on the market.
Lean into what makes your area special, and showcase how your home fits into the lifestyle buyers are seeking in that neighborhood.
For more information on what to look for in a new home, check out our guide for first-time home buyers.
Find the Right Buyers for Your Home
Selling a home in the Indianapolis area doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By understanding what today’s buyers are looking for, you can make smart choices that make your home more appealing to buyers.
Whether it’s showcasing your home’s energy-efficient features, creating a stunning outdoor space, or adding unique touches that make your home feel one-of-a-kind, staying in tune with buyer trends can guide you in the right direction.
Your Trusted Partner
Having a trusted partner to help you identify and highlight the unique features of your home can make all the difference. If you’re thinking about selling your home in Indianapolis or the Greater Indianapolis area, The Brokerage Co. is here to help. We understand what buyers want and can provide personalized advice to ensure you get the most out of your sale.
Reach out today to learn more about how we can assist you in making your home the one buyers can’t resist.
