Every year, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) conducts a survey to determine what features home buyers look for in a home.
This year, priorities have shifted as people began to look for more space while adapting to remote working and learning.
Keep reading for more insights from NAHB’s 2021 What Home Buyers Really Want report.
Most Essential Home Features
According to the survey, in which 3,000 recent home shoppers and buyers participated in, there is a growing demand for more square footage. As people look to expand their living spaces, here are the features they consider most essential:
| Home Feature | % Who Consider it Essential |
| Laundry Room | 87% |
| Exterior Lighting | 87% |
| Ceiling Fan | 83% |
| Energy Star rated windows | 83% |
| Patio | 82% |
| Double Kitchen Sink (side-by-side) | 81% |
| Walk-in Pantry | 81% |
| Front Porch | 81% |
| Energy Star rated appliances | 81% |
| Hardwood Flooring | 81% |
| Full Bath on the Main Level | 80% |
| Energy-efficient lighting | 80% |
The survey didn’t stop with overall features. Below are top features, broken down by room.
Top Kitchen Features
- Double sink (side-by-side)
- Walk-in pantry
- Table space for eating
- Central island
- Water filtration
Top Outdoor Features
- Exterior lighting
- Patio
- Front porch
- Rear porch
- Deck
Top Accessibility Features
- Full bath on the main level
- Doorways at least 3 feet wide
- Hallways at least 4 feet wide
- Non-slip floor surfaces
- An entrance without steps
Top Technology Features
- Programmable thermostat
- Security cameras
- Video doorbell
- Wireless home security system
- Multi-zone HVAC system
Least Essential Home Features
In addition to noting what’s most important, buyers also provided input on what they consider turn-offs in a home. Here are the least desirable features in a home or complex:
| Home Feature | % Who Consider it Least Desirable |
| Elevator | 56% |
| Glass Walls | 54% |
| Daycare Center in the Development | 50% |
| Wine Cellar | 48% |
| Pet Washing Station | 47% |
| Roof partially or completely covered by plants | 46% |
| Golf Course | 46% |
| In-law suite | 42% |
| Cork flooring (on the main level) | 41% |
| Dual toilets in primary bath | 40% |
What features are a must-have in your next home?