A new year has begun, and it’s evident that the worldwide pandemic has influenced the housing market. Sheltering in place forced people to take a closer look at their lives, and many decided it was time for a change. People have begun searching for new homes that offer their dream amenities and layouts. With so many companies offering remote work, individuals and families can move away from the big cities and their cramped apartments. As a home seller, you should take a closer look at potential buyers’ wishlists to increase your property’s value.

Keep reading to discover six of the top features homebuyers are looking for in 2021.

1. Dedicated Home Office

When the pandemic hit, working from home became a necessity for many people. Even as businesses and borders reopen, numerous employers offer flexible work structures — allowing employees to work at home occasionally. In some cases, they’ll be able to work remotely full-time if they so choose. As a result, homebuyers are on the hunt for dedicated office spaces. In 2021, adults want a dedicated space for their online meetings and video calls — free from screaming kids and noisy living rooms.

As a seller, you can showcase one of your rooms as an office space. Even if it’s technically a bedroom, potential buyers will appreciate the opportunity to use it as a working area if they want.

2. Energy-Efficient Features

Buyers want to see energy-efficient appliances and features integrated throughout a property. These designs are a standard part of many newly built homes and make an older home feel modern and updated. Besides the obvious environmental benefits, these products also help lower a homeowner’s annual energy consumption.

If you have room in your renovation budget, consider updating your windows and appliances to Energy Star-rated products to entice potential buyers. These eco-friendly features will save homeowners money and have terrific resale value — meaning they’re an excellent investment even if you are a few years away from listing your residence on the market.

3. Functional Garage Space

Every buyer appreciates when practical areas are also stylish. A finished garage offers storage and a workspace depending on the buyer’s needs. To easily upgrade the space and create curb appeal, home sellers can purchase composite garage doors. They’ll offer the look of real wood while being more durable, eco-friendly and affordable. Composite doors have exceptional heat and humidity resistance and are easy to maintain. As a result, homeowners can purchase them months — or even years — before selling the house.

First impressions are lasting ones, so you want the house’s curb appeal to shine from every angle — and updated garage doors will help.

4. Outdoor Entertainment Area

As you might have experienced firsthand, quarantining made many people feel cooped up and stir-crazy. Americans have recognized the value of having an outdoor space for entertainment and relaxation. This feature has been at the top of many homebuyers’ lists as they plan for a home that offers them privacy and personal space away from prying eyes.

Look at your property and assess whether you can highlight your outdoor space. Even a small balcony offers an outdoor escape when staged well.

5. Hardwood Floor

Hardwood floors offer a timeless and clean aesthetic to any home. They’re practical for many homeowners, since they are easier to clean, which reduces household allergens. While cleanliness and sanitation were at the forefront of everyone’s minds in 2020, this trend is far from new. Most buyers want wood floors because they look modern and offer freshness, unlike carpeting.

If you are looking to update the flooring in your house, wood will offer the most significant return on investment and value when selling.

6. Refinished Basement

Buyers in 2021 want space to spread out and pursue their hobbies within their homes. Homeowners can use a refinished basement as an in-law suite, man cave or rental area. With many young adults moving back in with family, added space and privacy are more vital than ever before.

As a seller, if your basement is unfinished, consider cleaning up the space to highlight the potential it has for future owners.

Keep Things Neutral

Ultimately, as you update your home to list, remember to take a neutral, conservative approach. Your design should play to universal appeal so your property garners the most amount of interest. It’s better to offer some of these features at a high standard than try to do them all halfway. Keep that in mind as you prioritize renovations before selling.