The Remodeling Corner

Janet Cook

Over time, we can get used to how our home looks and functions and not realize that, with some remodeling, one can level up their experience and enjoyment. The National Association of Home Builders surveyed recent home buyers and ranked the top features they wanted. Here are the top 10 and the percentage who said they want that feature. Check out this list and see if you want them for your home, too!

* Dedicated Laundry Room, 87%. A sufficient space for clothing care, including utility sink for soaking or pretreating stains, hanging system to dry, and place to iron and fold.

* Exterior Home Lighting, 87%. People want the increase of safety and security with walkway lighting. Sconces and spotlights can accentuate the beauty of the home and yard.

* Ceiling Fans, 83%. The breeze of a fan can make you feel like it is 10 degrees cooler. One can raise the thermostat 4 degrees and still feel comfortable and enjoy savings.

* Energy-Efficient Windows and Appliances, 83% and 81%, respectively. Energy-efficient windows can lower heating and cooling costs by 12%!

* Patio/Outdoor Living and Entertainment Space, 82%. An inviting outdoor room extends the amount of living space. Make it comfortable, easy to maintain, and protected from the elements.

* Double Kitchen Sink, 81%. Having a deep, two-bowl sink gives more options, like setting dishes out of sight until you are ready for clean-up while having a sink available for rinsing produce you are preparing. Stainless steel is more durable, and quality ones are less noisy.

* Walk-in Pantry, 81%. People want the ease of storing bulk items and being able to visually inventory supplies. Having more storage helps keep kitchen counters clutter-free.

* Covered Front Porch, 81%. Relaxing out front, saying hello to neighbors passing helps build community. It needs to be six feet deep for comfortable seating. Consider adding skylights to the porch roof to bring more light into the home.

* Hardwood Floors in Main Living Area, 81%. Wood floors give a natural look and warmth and are less allergenic than carpet and easier on the body than tile.

* Full Bathroom on the Main Level, 80%. Having a multi-level home, it is smart having an accessible full bathroom on the main floor for those who want or need to avoid stairs.

* Energy-Efficient Lighting, 80%. LED lights use 75% less energy and last 25 times longer, and they put out less heat. People want well-lit spaces, especially in the kitchen.

Other top features that were popular: energy-efficient lighting, an eat-in kitchen, separate dining room, a master bedroom walk-in closet, and a garage storage organizational system. If you are thinking about selling your home soon, consult a realtor for what features are in demand in your area.

Happy Home Remodeling!

Janet Cook, certified health coach and aging in place specialist, president of Cook Remodeling (celebrating their 43rd year), invites you to check out their website for photos and more tips!