15 Features That Will Actually Add Value to Your Home

When it comes to home features, certain characteristics will hold more value than others over time. Knowing which features are not just hot today but will stand the test of time can help secure your home value and get you the most bang for your buck when you make home improvements. If you're wondering which features to hone in on as you shop for your next home or prepare for a renovation, here are 15 features to consider.

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According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the laundry room is at the top of the list of home features buyers today are searching for, with 83% of surveyed respondents indicating it was an attractive feature. If your home doesn't have a laundry room, consider converting a space like a closet or utility room to add washer and dryer hookups.

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Kitchens have consistently been one of the rooms that drive the biggest bang for the buck when it comes to home improvement returns on investments. A full-blown remodel will likely offer the most value, but even minor updates can go a long way. Features like a double kitchen sink, walk-in pantry, and water filtration system are highly valued add-ons.

With more people spending time at home, having a designated area to eat together is taking precedence, with respondents having a higher demand for dining space than office space. Thankfully, this attractive area is one most homes can accommodate. If you're renovating the space, consider an open layout between the dining and kitchen areas, something respondents were highly interested in.

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When it comes to outdoor features, lighting was found the most desirable. Outdoor lighting, thankfully, can range from a small investment like ambient string lights to larger, more complex lighting systems. The key is to have an aesthetically pleasing, well-lit outdoor space that adds to the security or function of the home.

The second-most desired outdoor feature is a front porch, patio, or deck. The front patio is in the lead for valuable features. Maybe it's from being at home more, but enjoying a cup of coffee or reading a book out front seems to be a pastime that's regaining popularity.

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According to multiple surveys, ceiling fans are non-negotiable for home features. Their functionality in adding both cooling and lighting to a room is preferred over traditional lighting like a chandelier. Ceiling fans are equipped in most homes already and are, thankfully, an easy upgrade if not.

Recessed lighting has become a popular feature among prospective homebuyers today. According to Redfin, recessed lighting led to a higher list-to-sale ratio for homes that have sold recently. Kitchens and bathrooms are great spots to add recessed lighting -- over bedrooms, which would likely get a greater value from ceiling fans.

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While more and more people are returning to the office -- even if it's just for a few days or hours a week -- there is still a growing demand for flexible space that allows people to convert rooms to meet their needs; for instance, an office, playroom, or workout area. Having versatile space to accommodate different needs can help your home appeal to more buyers and generate a higher value.

ALSO READ: Report: These Are the Most Popular Home Improvement Projects Across the Country

Whether you have a single-story or two-story house, having a bathroom near the main living area is a valuable feature. People don't want to have to walk through bedrooms, go upstairs, or walk to the other end of the home for the bathroom. A half bath still holds value, but a full bath was preferred by 80% of respondents from the 2021 survey by NAHB.

Boasting energy-efficient home features like Energy Star appliances, insulated attics, LED lighting, high-efficiency water heaters, and smart thermostats can add a lot of value to your home while you own it and when it comes time to sell. These upgrades can be minimal but eventually save you time and money by reducing your energy bill.

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With the Sun Belt booming, central heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems are becoming more popular among homebuyers. Given their expensive price tag and timely installation, it's a feature most homebuyers would like to see updated when it comes time to buy. Updating your HVAC system may be a steep up-front investment, but it does hold its value over time.

ALSO READ: 4 Ways I Keep Home Maintenance Costs Down

Carpet is a thing of the past. Homebuyers today want wood floors. Natural hardwood flooring is preferred, but often, the look of wood flooring is what people want. Thanks to the growing quality, appearance, and durability of some alternative flooring options, you can find a cheaper alternative to natural hardwood flooring.

Following the trend of energy efficiency, double-pane windows are one of the most efficient upgrades you can make to a home. But it does come at a cost. Windows, particularly double pane, aren't cheap. The good news is that you can benefit from cost savings on energy while adding long-term value to your home.

ALSO READ: 5 Ways To Increase the Value of Your Home

Pools are a bit controversial when it comes to home value. Some say the cost of installing a pool cannot and will not be recouped down the road, but it is an attractive feature for a number of buyers. According to Redfin, 13.6% of homes had pools, with those homes garnering a higher list-to-sale price ratio. If you are going to install a pool, splurge for the hot tub combo, which is rated higher than a stand-alone pool.

A fireplace is becoming a popular feature among homebuyers today, with a surprising preference for an outdoor fireplace over an indoor one. This shift in demand could be driven by the changes in homebuyer preferences after the pandemic and spending more time at home, but either way, it seems fireplaces add value right now.

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The key to adding value to a home is making strategic improvements that compare with homes in your neighborhood. While a pool may be a valuable feature to some, if they aren't popular in your area, it may not be a valuable addition to buyers. Never over-improve a property and always consider functionality in the improvement before it's underway.

Liz Brumer-Smith has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Redfin. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: long May 2022 $22 calls on Redfin, short May 2022 $26 calls on Redfin, and short May 2022 $28 calls on Redfin. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.