What Buyers Want Right Now: Top Summer Trends in Home Design & Features

The real estate market is always evolving, and as summer heats up, so do buyer preferences. Today’s homebuyers aren’t just looking for square footage—they’re looking for lifestyle. Whether you're thinking of selling or simply want to keep your home on-trend, understanding what buyers value most this season can help you stand out.

Here are the top design features and amenities buyers are prioritizing this summer:

1. Outdoor Living Spaces

After years of indoor-centric living, buyers are craving the outdoors and not just a basic patio. Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, covered seating areas, and stylish landscaping are major selling points. Think of the backyard as an extension of the home, perfect for summer entertaining, family dinners, or quiet mornings with coffee.

Quick Tip: Even small improvements like string lights, a seating area, or a fresh coat of stain on the deck can boost appeal.

2. Energy Efficiency & Smart Tech

With rising utility costs and increased eco-awareness, energy efficiency is more than a buzzword, it’s a must-have. Buyers are looking for energy-efficient windows, smart thermostats, solar panels, and upgraded insulation.

Bonus points for smart home tech that adds both convenience and savings, like smart lighting, sprinkler systems, and security features.

3. Dedicated Home Offices & Flex Spaces

Remote work isn’t going anywhere, and buyers still prioritize a dedicated workspace. Even if you don’t have a full home office, showcasing a quiet nook or flex room that could serve as one helps buyers imagine how your home fits their lifestyle.

Pro Tip: Stage a spare bedroom or loft with a simple desk setup to show the potential.

4. Open Concept with Defined Zones

The open floor plan remains popular, but buyers now appreciate defined zones within open layouts. People want flow and function. A kitchen that opens to the family room? Great. But a tucked-away reading corner or breakfast nook adds the thoughtful division buyers appreciate.

5. Modern Kitchens & Updated Bathrooms

Kitchens and bathrooms still reign supreme when it comes to ROI. Buyers are gravitating toward neutral palettes, clean lines, quartz countertops, matte black fixtures, and plenty of storage. A spa-like bathroom or a statement backsplash in the kitchen can go a long way.

6. Low-Maintenance Landscaping

Curb appeal matters but so does convenience. Buyers are drawn to landscaping that looks great but doesn’t require hours of upkeep. Think native plants, perennial gardens, and hardscaping like gravel paths or stone borders.

Thinking of Selling This Summer?

At Move Forward Real Estate, we know what today’s buyers are looking for and how to position your home to match. Whether it’s suggesting simple updates or marketing key features with maximum impact, we’ll help your home stand out in a competitive market.

Let’s talk about how to make your home what buyers really want this summer.

Ready to move forward? We’re ready when you are.