Many of the home features people wanted in the past are fading in popularity. Today’s home buyers are focused on comfort, convenience, and lower ownership costs. It’s no longer enough to have a fireplace and nice cabinets. Home buyers want smart automation, energy-efficient appliances, and practical luxury.
The following are some of the home features buyers want most in 2026.
1. A spacious kitchen
A roomy kitchen is no longer a “nice to have” luxury. In 2026, it’s a necessity. A Rocket Mortgage® survey found that 56% of home buyers want a spacious, modern kitchen. People spend a large amount of time in the kitchen cooking, entertaining, working, and socializing. A spacious kitchen makes life comfortable all around.
The ideal kitchen in 2026 has an oversized island that can serve as a prep station, a seating area, and a storage center. It should have a sink and electrical outlets to run small appliances like blenders and crock pots, and even laptops.
2. Smart home technology for automated living
Once seen as a gimmick, smart home tech has become a central part of daily life. Today’s buyers want smart tech that makes life easy and safe. The most popular smart home tech includes:
- Smart lighting that can be controlled with an app
- Smart appliances (washers, dryers, ovens, refrigerators)
- Smart security (doorbell cameras, garage access, keyless entry)
- Smart thermostats that can be controlled remotely from a smartphone
- Smart shades that respond to sunlight and can be controlled with an app
- Connected charging outlets with USB-A/USB-C outlets throughout the home
These technologies add perceived value to a home, especially when buyers are comparing multiple options.
3. Flexible and functional spaces
For people who work from home, functional and adaptable spaces are essential. The most essential room is a dedicated home office designed for work with built-in bookshelves, connectivity, and sound control. This appeals to remote employees and self-employed individuals.
Rooms that can be used for multiple purposes are also a huge draw. When a room can be used as a gym, art studio, or guest room, home buyers can customize the space however they need.
The value of a mud room is something many homeowners underestimate. A mud room makes it easy for people entering the home to take off dirty shoes and wet jackets to keep the rest of the house clean. For people with dogs, a house with a mud room is a done deal.
4. Practically located laundry rooms
Laundry rooms located in a basement or in the garage are inconvenient. Buyers prefer laundry rooms located near main living areas or bedrooms rather than tucked far out of the way. It’s easier to do laundry when the washer and dryer are close to the source of the laundry.
5. Indoor-outdoor spaces
The right outdoor space dramatically enhances the perceived usable space in a home. Covered outdoor areas like patios, porches, and shaded seating areas make spending time outside enjoyable all year round. One of the most popular features is a fully equipped outdoor kitchen with storage and prep space. This not only appeals to buyers who love to host parties, but it also creates a sense of luxury.
6. Spa-style suites
More than ever, people are leaning toward wellness and self-care as part of their daily routine. Nothing feels more luxurious than a master bathroom with a jacuzzi tub, heated floors, a rainfall shower, and a freestanding soaking tub.
7. EV-ready garages
For those who own an electric vehicle, an EV-ready garage is a huge benefit. Even if there is no EV charger yet, a garage that has the space to accommodate EV charging is a plus. This is especially desirable in states that have the highest number of registered electric vehicles.
8. Kitchen and bath upgrades
Quartz and granite countertops are still the top choice for durability and aesthetic appeal in kitchens and bathrooms. Other appealing features are LED task lighting, motion-activated faucets, and modern fixtures that use less energy. Most importantly, people want storage in their kitchens and bathrooms. Having a dedicated pantry and built-in organizational systems is ideal.
What buyers really want in 2026 is about convenience and luxury
The home features people really want in 2026 center on energy efficiency, convenience, low maintenance, and luxury. Whether it’s an EV-ready garage, a solar powered roof, or smart automation, the most sought-after homes balance comfort with convenience. Whether you’re selling or building a new home, these preferences will give your property long-term value in a competitive market.
