Thinking about selling your home? Check out 2024’s must-have features

When buying your dream home, there are several aspects to take into consideration. For a family of five, maybe their biggest concern is the number of bedrooms or bathrooms. For a young couple with a large circle of friends, perhaps they’re seeking a space with ample room for entertainment and hosting.  

Most buyers are familiar with the basics of property listings and house hunting, like square footage, gas versus electric appliances or the difference between a full and a half bathroom. But when it comes to standing out in a crowded real estate market, which we’re seeing now more than ever, it often comes down to a must-have feature. 

So, what are some of those must-have features, the unique and practical ways to set your house apart from the rest? What makes your home different? Is it a high-tech kitchen, or a hidden pantry? Maybe it’s a pool with an adjacent putting green.  

In 2024, unique home features are more attractive than ever. Here are some of the most desirable ones to make your Southwest Florida residence stand out. 

Take a plunge 

We’ve seen it all over the internet – the “cold plunge” is an ongoing trend among people of all walks of life, but primarily athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The process is simple: fill a tub with ice cold water and ice cubes and submerge yourself to receive optimal health benefits. As the cold plunge carves a path for itself, more and more individuals are purchasing outdoor barrels and plunge tubs. As a seller, consider implementing one in your backyard or lanai, especially to attract younger buyers. Cold plunge tubs are available across the internet at a range of prices. 

These also pair well with home gyms, which can be easily assembled. The great thing about home gyms or workout rooms is that bigger isn’t always better. Get a set of barbells, a treadmill or stationary bike and a few floor mats, and voila, you have a home gym. It also doesn’t require an addition or new construction; you can convert an existing space, like an extra bedroom. 

Create a backyard rainforest 

Another way to enhance your outdoor space is to add an outdoor garden shower, particularly if your house has a pool. Outdoor garden showers are complete with ample privacy and lush greenery, and they make the transition from pool to house a breeze.  

Typically, getting out of the pool is a dreaded task, as it comes with the striking breeze of Florida air, coupled with the flash of frigid air once inside, but an outdoor shower makes that easier. 

Also, outdoor showers are great for families with dogs and little ones, both of which are known to be a tad messy. Rinsing off outside keeps the mess outside, and not inside on your floors and carpets. They can also be convenient for those who live on or near the beach. Lose the sand outside, not inside. Enhance the shower with beautiful flora and stones to make it not just practical, but gorgeous. 

VIEW BEACHFRONT LISTINGS 

Mancaves, but with a twist 

Just as they have been for decades, mancaves are still as popular as ever. Recently, though, a different approach has been taken to mancaves – the concept of a cigar room. I just recently showed a house that had a cigar room in the living space, and it had a classy, old English vibe to it. 

The traditional mancave is just as popular, though sellers should be warned to stray away from using the garage as the prime space. Garages still exist to serve their primary function: a place to park your car. So, while that man cave may work out great for your husband, it could be a detriment (if not a dealbreaker) when it’s time to put your place on the market. 

Goodbye, makeshift desk 

Today, as work from home and hybrid work structures are increasingly popular, one of the most in-demand home features is a home office. When implementing a home office, think about the logistics. Does the workspace have access to natural light and fresh air? Is it free from distractions, like your neighbor walking their dog or doing yardwork? 

VIEW LISTINGS WITH HOME OFFICES 

Want to take the next step? Go to Pinterest or Instagram and find an idea that speaks to you. While making additions to your home is a great way to attract buyers, the key is to keep it modern, and not go to an extreme. Extraordinary home additions can be overwhelming to a new buyer, so try to keep your home improvements low-key, while still making them great.  

Need a trusted real estate agent? Contact Aprile Osborne, chief vision officer of Call it Closed International Realty, at 239-220-8607.