What Buyers Want --Home Buying Trends for 2009

OK, everybody knows the first home buying trend  "a good deal'!!  That's true no matter what the market.  But today's blog will focus on a few trends that buyers are looking for in today's market--and how you, as a seller, can focus on those trends in your home sale.

1.  Outdoor Living Space

      It doesn't have to be a showplace garden with the $10K outdoor kitchen and 500 SF patio...but most buyers want a comfortable outdoor living space--to cook out, entertain, relax and enjoy some green space.  A deck or patio showcasing a table and chairs, potted plants/flowers, space for a grill--all very desirable for today's buyer.  Make sure the deck is freshly painted or stained and the patio is free of leaves, sticks, debris, etc.  Have the table show off  with an eye catching flowering plant as a centerpiece and colorful, inexpensive chair pads.  Make this outside area in the backyard as inviting as the inside living space.

2.  Green and/or energy efficiency features

      If you have replaced windows, added insulation, installed energy saving appliances, or have a hi efficiency furnace--make sure potential buyers know that up front.  Have flyers ready inside the house outlining these features, along with average monthly utility bills.  Energy costs keep going up--show buyers that they can  save money because of your energy saving improvements.

3.  Less is more.

     This is a trend that I feel will extend beyond 2009--older couples and some families downsizing to less space in a house to keep payments and utility costs down.  Who needs a 3000 SF house for two people?  The struggling economy, job insecurity, depleted retirement and college savings accounts are causing all home buyers to rethink costs--and cut payments they can control.  However, these buyers still want the upscale features of the newer homes--updated kitchens and baths, desirable location and close to city amenities.  They know they can live just as well...in less space.

4.  Dedicated office space

     Just about everyone has a computer--some homes have several.  Buyers want a designated space for the computer--for the kids' homework, bill paying, social networking.  More companies allow employees to work from home.  Be sure your house has a office space or dedicated area to a computer, desk, filing cabinet.  Create a nook in the basement or a closet if you are short on space--and be sure this area is neat and clutter free.

5.  Security features

     Play up the fact that your home has a security system, outdoor cameras, motion activated exterior lights or any other feature that secures the home.  Women especially appreciate security systems, and it may provide the buyer with less home insurance premiums.

When you are selling your home, it's vitally important to showcase the features and benefits of your home above the competition.  Take a few extra steps to concentrate on what today's buyers are focusing on--and your home will rise above all others!

Thanks for reading my blog.  Please email me with any comments or suggestions. Maryhutchison.org