WHAT DO BUYERS WANT

Knowing the answer to the above question is key to selling your home. So pay attention, sellers! If you want to know what features are most sought-after by homebuyers in 2009, keep reading.
The kitchen has long been considered the deciding factor for a buyer's decision - after all, the kitchens is where families tend to spend the majority of their time. And this is even more true today, as people increasingly choose to dine and entertain at home, thanks to the economic downturn. As such, today's buyers want large, open-concept kitchens (and might sacrifice square footage elsewhere to get it). Desired features include islands, granite countertops, stainless steel or cabinet-matching appliances, an extra sink, and built-in microwaves.

Like kitchens, bathrooms have always been particularly important to buyers. Today's trend is toward more spa-like bathrooms, especially in master baths, as people look to ease the ever-increasing stresses of the day by relaxing and rejuvenating at home. Oversized glass showers with seating and large or multiple showerheads, vessel sinks, furniture-quality vanities and cabinets, and even extra details like towel-warming drawers (which are easily installed) - these are the features buyers crave.

Buyers are also hot for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly features in 2009, a trend sure to grow. They desire ENERGY STAR® appliances, and energy-efficient lighting, windows and heating and cooling systems, as keeping the monthly costs of property ownership down becomes a higher priority for buyers. As well, eco-friendly features like VOC-free paint, bamboo flooring, natural carpeting, and recycled glass countertops are increasingly in demand, as today's homebuyer is more health- and planet-conscious.