Homebuyers Say Condition Is the Most Important Factor When Purchasing a Home

When it comes to finding the perfect home, buyers have spoken loud and clear: condition matters most. Recent trends reveal that more prospective homeowners prioritize move-in-ready homes over other features, indicating a shift in buyer preferences. Let’s dive deep into what homebuyers say condition means to them and why it’s become a key deciding factor in the real estate market.

Move-In Ready Homes Top the List

According to a December 2024 nationwide survey by Bright MLS, homebuyers overwhelmingly value homes in pristine condition. Of the nearly 700 prospective buyers surveyed, 56.1% rated a move-in-ready home as “very important,” while 37.8% deemed it “somewhat important.” This reveals a strong preference for homes requiring minimal repairs and updates, making condition a crucial element in the buying process.

Bright MLS Chief Economist Dr. Lisa Sturtevant explains, “While most homebuyers understand the need for compromises when choosing a home, they are more likely to compromise on size or location before settling for a home that isn’t move-in ready.” This sentiment underscores why sellers must prioritize home maintenance and presentation.

What Homebuyers Want in a Home

In addition to a home’s condition, certain features consistently rank high on buyers’ wish lists. Based on the survey, here’s what homebuyers say condition should ideally include:

• Bedrooms: 53.2% of respondents prioritize the number of bedrooms, making it the most important feature.
• Garage: Nearly half of homebuyers (49.6%) value having a garage.
• Primary En-Suite: A close third, 49.3% of buyers seek a primary bedroom with an attached bathroom.
• Overall Size: While not the top factor, 43.3% still consider the size of the home important.

Additional features that matter to buyers include a front porch (32.5%), energy-efficient green features (32.0%), and a large yard (31.2%). Interestingly, elements like gourmet kitchens and well-designed outdoor spaces ranked lower, showing that practicality often outweighs luxury.

The Importance of Location

While condition reigns supreme, location still plays a vital role in the decision-making process. Buyers emphasize proximity to work, walkability, and school quality as key factors:

• Commute: 54.0% rank distance from work or commute time as the most important aspect of location.
• Walkability: 36.1% value being in a walkable neighborhood.
• School Quality: 35.6% consider access to good schools crucial.

Other location-related considerations include access to public transportation, which 25% of buyers identified as very important.

Willingness to Compromise

Despite the emphasis on condition, buyers recognize the need to be flexible. The survey revealed that:

• 74.8% would consider purchasing a smaller home.
• 64.2% are open to buying outside their preferred neighborhood.
• 54.8% would compromise by purchasing a fixer-upper.
• 54.0% are willing to consider homes with rental units or two-unit properties.

These findings show that while homebuyers say condition is their top priority, practicality and availability often influence final decisions.

How Sellers Can Appeal to Buyers

If you’re planning to list your home, focusing on its condition can make all the difference. Here are actionable steps to ensure your property stands out:

1. Address Repairs

Before listing, take care of any necessary repairs. Buyers are more likely to make an offer if they feel the home is well-maintained. Fix leaky faucets, repair damaged walls, and replace outdated fixtures.

2. Upgrade Key Features

Consider small upgrades that can have a big impact, such as modernizing the kitchen or bathroom. Even simple changes like repainting walls or replacing hardware can elevate your home’s appeal.

3. Stage the Home

Staging helps buyers visualize themselves living in the space. Focus on creating a clean, inviting atmosphere with neutral decor and minimal clutter.

4. Highlight Move-In-Ready Features

In your listing, emphasize the condition of your home. Use phrases like “recently renovated,” “newly painted,” or “well-maintained” to attract buyers searching for move-in-ready options.

5. Invest in Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. Enhance your home’s exterior with landscaping, fresh paint, and a tidy lawn to entice potential buyers from the moment they arrive.

Why Condition Matters More Than Ever

The increased focus on condition reflects broader shifts in buyer behavior. Many modern buyers lead busy lives and prefer homes that require minimal effort to settle into. Additionally, the cost of renovations can be daunting, leading buyers to prioritize homes that are ready to live in from day one.

Dr. Sturtevant notes, “Buyers are looking for value, and move-in-ready homes offer peace of mind, convenience, and a sense of stability.”

The Role of Condition in Real Estate Trends

The preference for move-in-ready homes has implications for the real estate market. Sellers who invest in their home’s condition before listing often see quicker sales and higher offers. On the flip side, buyers may face more competition for homes that meet their criteria, driving up demand for well-maintained properties.

Final Thoughts

As homebuyers say condition is their top priority, understanding these preferences can help both buyers and sellers navigate the market successfully. Whether you’re searching for your dream home or preparing to sell, focusing on condition can make all the difference. With the right approach, you can achieve your real estate goals while meeting the evolving expectations of today’s buyers.

Start planning today to ensure your home stands out in a competitive market. Whether it’s minor upgrades, thorough maintenance, or strategic staging, remember that condition is king in the eyes of homebuyers.