#Sustainability #USA #Austin #Realtor.com #Home Trends

Realtor.com Reveals 2025's Most Sought-After Home Trends Emphasizing Sustainability and Technology

In the wake of a year filled with significant AI innovations and shifting energy priorities, homeowners in the U.S. are making their voices heard regarding what they want in their living spaces. According to Realtor.com’s 2025 Home Trends Report, the future of home design appears to focus increasingly on efficiency, sustainability, and natural-inspired aesthetics while moving away from opulent or oversized features that previously dominated the real estate market.

Evolving Buyer Preferences

A crucial finding of the report indicates a remarkable rise in the prioritization of features that promote conservation and eco-friendliness. The inclusion of WaterSense fixtures, designed to reduce water consumption by at least 20%, has surged dramatically, showing an astounding increase of 289.6% year-over-year in listing descriptions. Homes equipped with these fixtures are priced at a median listing price of about $628,000, highlighting their appeal in mid- to upper-tier markets. Following close behind, homes marked as Net-Zero Ready have also gained traction with a significant 198% rise, while features accommodating EV Charging have witnessed a 175% increase.

Anthony Smith, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, noted, "Homeowners are increasingly making choices that render their properties more efficient and self-sustaining. Eco-friendly upgrades are being seen as both a lifestyle choice and a wise financial decision, especially amidst rising energy costs and heightened climate concerns."

Bringing Nature Indoors

Another leading trend identified in the report is the growing preference for biophilic or indoor-outdoor designs, which have increased by 163% in mentions from the previous year. This design approach emphasizes creating a seamless blend between indoor comforts and the natural outdoor environment, featuring expansive glass doors, interior courtyards, and living walls that invite nature right into the living space. Houses with these attributes have a median listing price of $859,000, making them particularly appealing to luxury consumers.

Adding to this focus on mindful design is the rise of outdoor low-voltage lighting, which has seen a 91% increase. This feature not only enhances the aesthetics of a space but also extends the usable area of homes, essentially adding functionality to outdoor living areas.

The Role of Smart Technology

Technological advancements remain pivotal as homeowners increasingly desire smart environments. Features like Built-In Coffee Systems, Smart Lighting Scenes, and hardwired Ethernet/Cat6 connectivity have emerged as significant trends within the top 15 fastest-growing attributes, indicative of the modernization of living conditions to support hybrid working and digital lifestyles.

Smith elaborated, "In previous years, buyers were primarily concerned with open floor plans and upscale fixtures. Now, the focus has shifted toward tech integration, looking for homes equipped with EV chargers and high-speed connections. The concept of a contemporary home has fundamentally changed."

Classic Features Remain in Demand

While new trends are reshaping market dynamics, some features remain enduringly popular. The report indicates that the inclusion of home office or Zoom rooms has risen by 56.5%, illustrating the ongoing influence of remote working. Other widely sought-after features include fully fenced yards and finished basements, all of which reflect a demand for multifunctional living spaces.

Old Trends on the Decline

Conversely, certain traditional features are falling out of favor. Formal dining rooms with built-ins have seen a decline of 25.3%, while infinity-edge pools and three-car garages have also dropped by 24.7% and 19.1%, respectively. This shift signifies a consumer preference for simplicity and practicality over ornate luxury and excess.

Conclusion

Realtor.com's in-depth analysis relies on real-time housing data, emphasizing how frequently various features appear in active listings. With data reflecting the year-over-year growth of key amenities, the report provides clear insights into evolving homeowner preferences, enhancing understanding for buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals alike. As we look toward the future of home design, the inclination towards sustainability, technology integration, and natural aesthetics sets the tone for upcoming trends shaping the real estate market.

Realtor.com has long been at the forefront of online real estate, connecting individuals with valuable insights and tools to navigate the housing market efficiently. The insights provided in the 2025 Home Trends Report will undoubtedly help inform decision-making for many potential buyers and those looking to enhance their homes.