Are you going to put your home on the market soon? Do you want the most money out of your investment? To do so, it is important to understand what features buyers really want in a home in 2026.
Energy Efficiency & Lower Utility Costs
Buyers want better insulation, newer windows, and energy-efficient homes to combat rising utility costs and cold winters. With the warm and humid summer we have in New Brunswick, AC is also a must, and not having any can be a huge deal breaker for potential buyers.
What To Do?
- Install a mini-split heat pump on each level
- Add insulation in the attic (12’’ at least) and on the basement walls
- Replace any cracked window panel
Move-In Ready Homes
Turnkey properties with updated kitchens, bathrooms, and neutral finishes are strongly preferred. Many buyers want to avoid renovation costs and delays. This is why some homes sell right away, and some don’t!
What To Do?
- Touch-up paint on walls, trims, baseboards, doors and ceilings
- Repair any damaged cupboard doors, trims or handles
Finished Basement
A finished basement adds value, especially when the windows are egress (conforming to the building code to add an extra bedroom. Whether it’s for multi-generational living, rental income, playrooms, or home gyms, having more finished square footage is something buyers won’t kick on.
What To Do?
- Add a designated living room area and an extra bathroom
- Leave space for storage
- Adding a conforming bedroom increases value even more
Smart Home Feature
Not flashy tech. All you need is smart thermostats, security systems, and video doorbells that improve comfort and safety. Nobody wants yellow thermostats and rusty baseboard heaters in their new home.
What To Do?
- Update light switches and outlet covers
- Update thermostats (just the white ones, doesn’t need to be touch or high-tech)
- Update baseboard heaters or ductwork covers that are rusted
Outdoor Living Space
Even modest yards with decks, patios, privacy fencing, or room for a shed matter. Buyers value usable outdoor space (to an extent). We are not talking about installing an in-ground pool here; just a spot to sit and relax with family and friends.
What To Do?
- Designate a sitting area with chairs and a table
- Re-arrange your furniture to create a good flow (you want buyers to see the entire space and be able to move around it, even tho it might not be how you usually lay out your furniture)
- Add some flowers and plant pots to create curb appeal
Low-Maintenance Living
Lastly, the one thing most buyers want when purchasing a home is low-maintenance living. A big part of this is getting your property ready to hit the market, but some major items may need repair, such as the roof and decks.
What To Do?
- Replace or repair the roof if necessary
- Repair broken wood planks on decks and fences
- If planning to sell within the next year, avoid creating high-maintenance items such as large landscaping (emphasis on large).
When selling your home, your goal is to attract as many buyers as possible to maximize your profit. While some items might not be doable for your property, you can (and should) always make your home ready to hit the market to stand out from the competition.
When it comes to selling a home, it is always a good idea to put yourself in a potential buyer’s shoes. Wishing you the best of luck with your real estate goals. If you’re interested in working with us to sell your property, please reach out directly, and we will get you started!
