There is plenty to rave about the gorgeous properties of Hilton Head Island, Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, and other incredible areas in South Carolina. From Bluffton luxury homes to a Charleston waterfront property, each residence has unique elements and design characteristics that make it a one-of-a-kind piece of real estate.
What are homebuyers looking for here? This is a question that many people are asking as the demand for homes continues to outstrip the supply. While some general trends (such as a preference for smart home features) remain popular across the board, many times, preferences will vary from buyer to buyer. Some people are looking for a certain architectural style of the house, while other buyers want specific features in their dream homes.
Location
Location is always going to be high on the house features wishlist for homebuyers. The Charleston area is a desirable place to live, and many people are looking for homes. If you have a property in Grimball Gates, Stiles Point, or Mount Pleasant, you may already have buyers knocking at your door! Many buyers also look for stunning homes near the most highly-rated school districts for their children’s future success. These are the sort of location-related amenities that you’ll want to highlight.
To draw buyers to your location, write a compelling description of your neighborhood and its amenities. Be sure to include an estimate of how long it takes to reach nearby attractions and notable landmarks. By listing the distance, you'll give buyers a realistic idea of what it would be like to live in your neighborhood and what their day-to-day may look like.
Tech Upgrades
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As we mentioned before, many homebuyers are looking for a high-tech home to call their own. This includes smart thermostats, security systems, and even automated vacuums. It can also include an automated laundry chute or lights and a sound system that can be controlled with voice commands or an app. If your home has any of these features, be sure to highlight them when you are marketing your property. Buyers will be willing to pay more for a home with these upgrades.
Must-have Home Features
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In addition to location and tech upgrades, buyers often also have a wishlist of house must-haves they are looking for in a home. These can vary from buyer to buyer, but some of the most popular items include a spacious kitchen with a hidden room that is both pantry and extra prep space, hardwood floors, a fireplace, and a showcase-worthy backyard. If your home has any of these features, be sure to highlight them when you are marketing your property. This can include a certain number of bedrooms and bathrooms, a specific type of flooring, or even a pool. If you have any of these features in your home, be sure to list them prominently when you are marketing your property. Buyers will be interested in homes with the features they are seeking.
Functional and Up-to-date Home Systems
While many of today’s homebuyers are looking for cosmetic upgrades, others are interested in functional upgrades. This can include things like a new roof, updated windows, or a new HVAC system. If you have a record showing a recent improvement of these systems, list them when you are marketing your property.
Additionally, if any of these functional features are nearing the end of their useful life, you may want to replace them before listing your property. It might be time for a roof renovation, new double-paned windows, or a new HVAC system if yours is out of date. By replacing these features before listing, you are making your home more attractive to buyers and increasing your chances of selling quickly.
Unique Features
Many homebuyers are looking for unique features in their new homes. This can include things like a historic charm, a spacious lot with plenty of green space, or even a guest house. When selling luxury homes, be sure to point out any unique features that your home has. This can be a selling point for buyers who are looking for something special in their new homes.
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If your home doesn't have anything that helps it stand out from the crowd, consider a renovation to the kitchen, master bathroom, landscaping, or one of the extra bedrooms. In the kitchen, buyers are looking for things like full-slab granite, marble, or quartzite countertops, stainless steel appliances with custom paneling to blend into the rest of the design, and a kitchen island with a waterfall countertop. In the master bathroom, they want a spacious walk-in shower with multiple showerheads, a soaking tub, and double vanities. They want a home office, playroom, or gym for the extra bedroom.
They want a private oasis with a pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, and fire pit for the landscaping. If you have the acreage for it, you can get really creative with multiple outdoor entertainment zones, like a dining area and fully-functional kitchen, lounge areas near a pool with waterscape features like a waterfall or fountain, and even a putting green. You could add a guest house, barn, or detached garage to house guests' rides or your own extensive collection of classic cars. Whatever you do, ensure it is in keeping with the style of your home and neighborhood.
Whatever you choose to make your home unique, highlight these features when marketing your property. Buyers are interested in a home tailored specifically to them, so the more you can show them that your home has what they are looking for, the better.
Ready to Get Started?
As you can see, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to what homebuyers are looking for here. However, there are some general trends you can keep in mind when marketing your property. When selling your home, be sure to list all of the features buyers are looking for. This includes location, tech upgrades, house must-haves, and even unique features. If you can make your home stand out from the crowd, you will surely attract many interested buyers.
For expert guidance with listing your Bluffton property and more personalized advice along your entire selling journey, reach out to experienced local agent Shawn Kemp. Shawn offers top-notch service and endless motivation so you can reach success. Contact him today!
*Header photo courtesy of Unsplash