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Selling a home can be overwhelming, with numerous factors to consider, from hiring the right real estate agent to navigating appraisals and inspections. However, certain home design features can make a significant difference in your home’s resale value. Research from Zillow, based on over 2 million listings in 2024, has identified key features that can help you sell your home for more than expected. Below, we highlight 11 design elements that could enhance your home’s market appeal.
1. Remodeled Spaces
Homes that are recently remodeled tend to fetch more on the market. Zillow’s analysis revealed that homes described as “remodeled” sold for 3.7% more than the expected price. Renovating areas like the kitchen or bathroom can make a home more attractive to buyers looking for a move-in-ready property.
2. Wet Rooms
A wet room in a bathroom—essentially a shower area designed to be fully waterproof—can boost a home’s appeal. Homes with this feature sold for an average of 3.3% more than their asking price. While installing a wet room costs around $13,000 on average, it can provide a solid return.
3. White Oak Flooring
White oak flooring is both durable and stylish, making it a popular choice for buyers. Homes with white oak floors saw a 3.2% increase in sale price. The investment of around $4,726 for new flooring can pay off well by attracting more buyers.
4. Teak Wood Elements
Teak, known for its durability and luxurious appearance, adds significant value to a home. Whether used for flooring or outdoor features, homes with teak elements can expect to sell for 3.1% more.
5. Venetian Plaster Walls
Venetian plaster, a textured finish for walls, offers a unique and high-end feel that buyers are increasingly drawn to. A home featuring Venetian plaster can see a 3% increase in its final sale price.
6. New Appliances
Homes with brand-new appliances—especially in the kitchen—are more appealing to potential buyers. Homes that feature modern, energy-efficient appliances sold for 2.7% more than their asking price. The investment in updating appliances, ranging from $2,100 to $5,400, could lead to higher offers.
7. Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone is gaining popularity as a premium countertop material, surpassing granite and marble. Homes with soapstone countertops saw an average 3.5% increase in sale price. The cost to install soapstone countertops ranges between $2,100 and $7,200, but it can offer a worthwhile return.
8. Outdoor Shower
Outdoor showers are becoming a sought-after feature, particularly for homes with an outdoor lifestyle or coastal influence. An outdoor shower can increase a home’s sale price by up to 2.8%, with installation costs averaging between $1,000 and $5,000.
9. Bluestone Patios
Bluestone patios are a more elegant and durable alternative to traditional brick or concrete patios. Homes with bluestone patios sold for 2.2% more than their asking price. The cost of installing a bluestone patio varies between $6 and $14 per square foot.
10. Quartz Countertops
Quartz continues to be a popular choice for countertops, offering durability and easy maintenance. Homes with quartz countertops can expect a 2.6% increase in sale price. The installation cost for quartz countertops typically ranges from $50 to $200 per square foot.
11. Outdoor Kitchens
Adding an outdoor kitchen enhances both the functionality and entertainment potential of a home. Whether it’s a simple setup with a grill or a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, this feature can lead to a 2.2% higher sale price. Costs for building an outdoor kitchen range from $6,348 for a basic setup to $26,903 for a high-end installation.
By incorporating these design features into your home, you can enhance its appeal and potentially sell it for more than expected. While some of these upgrades require a significant investment, they can result in a meaningful return, especially if you’re looking to maximize resale value.