7 Essential Home Features for Move-Up Buyers

Have you outgrown your current home? Are you looking for a property better suited to your lifestyle, but unsure where to start?

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Based on our years’ experience working with numerous move-up buyers (just like you), we’ve put together a list of the top features to consider when purchasing your next home.

1. A Great Location

When it comes to purchasing a new home, the location is just as important (if not more so) than the property itself. Growing families especially need access to essential amenities such as schools, grocery stores, services, playgrounds, parks and more. Of course, a family-oriented community known for its friendly neighbours is also ideal.

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2. Enough Bedrooms…

This may seem like a no-brainer at first, but moving-up also requires planning ahead. Where will you be in 5, 10 or even 15 years? Do you plan on expanding your family by having more children or moving in a grandparent? On top of having enough bedrooms for current (and future) family members, you’ll likely want to have an extra room for guests and/or a home office, playroom, exercise room, etc.

3. …And Bathrooms

As the number of bedrooms goes up, so too should the number of bathrooms. For example, in a two-storey home (finished basement), you’ll want to include a half (or full) bath in the basement and on the main floor. You’ll also need a full bath to accommodate the upper level bedrooms. That being said, parents who’d prefer not to do battle over bathroom space with their children may opt to look for a home with its a master ensuite.

4. Ensuite

Speaking of ensuite, what busy parent doesn’t want to have their own private bathroom retreat? A standard in most homes since the 1980s, the ensuite (or master bath) has become a staple among move-up buyers – specifically those featuring a bathtub, shower (dual or separate) and ample counter space. Regardless of age, it’s not uncommon to find a spa-like ensuite in many family homes on the market.

5. Outdoor Space

Another major perk of moving up into a larger home? More room outside as well as in. Another staple feature among move-up buyers is yard space. Most often, this implies a larger backyard offering plenty of room for kids and pets to run and play, but it also refers to patio and/or deck space, a fire pit, garden, etc.

6. Storage

Having enough storage space is essential for any home buyer, but none so important as a growing family. Bedroom closet space is a must (in addition to a linen closet, hallway closet, etc.), with many homeowners preferring a walk-in version for their master suite. Other sought-after storage features include garages, walk-in kitchen pantries and ample cupboard/drawer space in the kitchen and bathrooms. 

7. Energy Efficiency

Last but not least, energy efficiency remains a top priority for move-up buyers looking to save money on their utility bills. Energy-efficient appliances and windows have been proven to deliver significant savings (at least $100 per year), amounting to thousands over their lifetime.

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Categorised in: Design & Decor

This post was written by Terry Paranych Real Estate Group