If you’ve decided to purchase a home after taking time to research the question “Should I rent or buy a house?” you’ll want to write down a checklist of must-haves to determine which properties to tour. After all, you don’t want to waste your time checking out houses that aren’t going to be a good fit now or in the near future. For example, that adorable one-bedroom Victorian may have a ton of character and be ideal for you and your husband, but if you’re planning to have kids in the next few years or so, it’s probably not going to work. 

Beyond the basics like the number of bedrooms and the condition of the home, there are a number of other factors to consider before making that offer, including these top five most desirable elements.

A Laundry Room

A 2019 survey by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that the element buyers most wanted in a home was a laundry room, with 91 percent stating that it was either essential or desirable. While you could install a stackable washer/dryer in a closet or another space, with a laundry room, you’ll have everything you need in one spot, from the detergent to the dryer sheets, and ideally, a place to fold the clothes once they’ve dried. Having a separate space for things like folding and ironing is a great way to keep messes like piles of clothing out of your living space.

Energy Efficient Appliances

Homebuyers today expect appliances to be energy efficient. It’s no longer just a plus but a must. They make a significant difference when it comes to saving money on an electricity bill, while reducing the impact on the environment. If there are smart appliances, they can also give you feedback on how much energy they’re using so you can monitor consumption. If the internal temperature of your refrigerator is too low and negatively affecting overall efficiency, for example, you’ll get an alert so that you can correct the problem.

Plenty of Storage Space

Storage space is one of the top considerations among potential homebuyers, especially for growing families who need plenty. If a home has shelving and cabinetry in the garage, that’s a big plus as it will be easier to access those items whenever you need them, unlike a shed in the backyard or even an attic.

Exterior Lighting 

While lighting is important inside, exterior lighting such as pendant lights, motion-sensor lights, walkway lights, and spotlights provide many benefits that make it one of the most desirable elements of a home. Not only does it add to its aesthetic, but it serves as an additional safety feature. For example, motion-sensor lights turn on automatically whenever there is movement outside the home, making it easier to detect a would-be intruder. Lighting can also make an outdoor living space a particularly enchanting place to enjoy get-togethers or simply relax on a warm summer evening, such as stringing fairy lights around a backyard patio. 

A Patio

Speaking of backyard patios, they’re also one of the top elements homebuyers look for. Just imagine having an outdoor living space with a patio, perhaps furnished with some comfortable furniture that surrounds a fire pit and even a wet bar. If the house has a small kitchen, during the warmer months of the year, it can be the perfect way to take cooking outdoors.