We can look forward to what we want in a home, depending on what was being created late into 2022. According to new research from Zillow, there are 3 must haves for 2023.
First on the list that homebuyers are looking for, is a well thought out backyard. Backyard descriptions are highlighted in one out of every five Zillow home for sale listing descriptions. The mention of a patio or pool in the house is also up by more than 13% in 2022. One big reason for this may be that the pandemic forced homeowners into entertaining outdoors, and as an extension of their home backyard in new creative ways. Such as illustrated in the image, features such as a Pergola, outdoor sitting areas, gas or fire pits, a fireplace, and/or an outdoor TV area are no longer considered just luxury items in a backyard.
A second feature being sought out is a kitchen island which can be used as a prep station, a place for kids to do homework, or a place to have meals instead of sitting at the dinner table. Mentions of this multi-functional feature of an island was up 19% in listings descriptions on Zillow in 2022.
The third feature that is being sought out is a non-open floor plan since people were living, working, and schooling at home since the beginning of the pandemic. A quiet area or private office/room is more desirable than ever. More than a quarter of all Zillow listings mention a privacy space, a 7% increase over 2021. More closed floor plans also allow for comfortable, cozy, enclosed spaces. Homeowners who have open floor plans can close their existing areas and can define their spaces through furniture layout, and faux walls to create more private areas and set up office areas more efficiently. Especially for those important Zoom calls. Your cat will still work his/her way in!
