As we step into this new year, it is an exciting time for the real estate market in central Illinois. Markets across the Midwest are gearing up as strong buyers markets, as homeownership becomes more attainable due to more appealing price points. For this reason, this may be a great year to list your home and take steps toward “unlocking new doors” of your dreams.
In the real estate market, we see trends that ebb and flow year after year in regards to what buyers are looking for in a home. This year, there are a few trends that are standing out, and being aware of these can be advantageous to you as a seller, allowing you to catch the attention of a potential buyer even in a competitive market.
Here are some of the top features central Illinois buyers are looking for this year:
- Green features. Over the past several years, there has been a growing interest in decreasing environmental impact and conserving energy in the home. Eco-friendly, green features continue to be a selling point and appeal to today’s buyer this year. Energy efficient appliances and sustainably sourced materials can be a great highlight and give you an edge over competition.
- Flexible spaces. In the current market, many buyers are looking for a home with flexible, multi-purpose spaces. Rooms that can function as a home office, or a guest bedroom, or a home gym, etc., are especially appealing to today’s buyer. Make your rooms as much of an open slate as you can, allowing a buyer to envision the space as what they want it to be to meet fit their personal lifestyle.
- Open floor plan. For many buyers, the more open the floor plan is, the better! Most modern homes are built with an open layout, but even older home models can do a few things to help their home feel even more spacious and attractive to prospective buyers. The way you arrange your furniture, decluttering as much as possible, and using mirrors and natural lighting are all some tricks of the trade that can create the perception of more open and spacious living quarters.
- Smart technology. In a world that is rapidly advancing with technology and its uses, the home is no exception. Smart thermostats, locks, doorbells, lighting, and appliances all appeal to the buyers of our day, as they streamline functions of the home and make them customizable and easily accessible to the homeowner.
Whether this year finds you ready to list your home or still creating your real estate goals, I am cheering you on. The Sue Neihouser Team would love to be your Peoria Realtor, Morton Realtor, or any surrounding community’s realtor, and bring our expertise to the table in whatever way we can. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
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