Boise, Idaho, continues to attract a diverse population, thanks to its vibrant community, beautiful landscapes, and dynamic housing market. If you’re considering selling your home in Boise (or anywhere in the US), knowing what buyers are looking for can help you maximize your property’s appeal. Here are the top five features that currently make homes in the Boise metro area stand out in the market:
Modern/Updated Kitchen
Today’s homebuyers in Boise seek modern amenities, especially in the kitchen. Features such as stainless steel appliances, quartz or granite countertops, and spacious, functional layouts are highly sought after. An updated kitchen adds aesthetic value and suggests that the home is well-maintained. However, a full kitchen remodel on an outdated kitchen may seem overwhelming, or out of your budget. In that case there are still things you can do to update an outdated kitchen:
- Replace old appliances. This alone will add more value to your home as potential buyers will be reassured they will not need to spend $ on new appliances or worry about them breaking soon after purchase. A recommendation would be to make sure the appliances are coordinated, meaning stainless steel fronts, or the same brand, white, black, etc.
- Countertops can make a big difference in a buyer’s eyes and are worth the expense. Many stone companies in town may have extra slabs, or slabs with imperfections that you can pick up at a discount. If the stone is too pricey, consider alternatives such as Hi-mack, a manmade stone-like material found at Home Depot for much less than quartz or granite. You can also get butcher block which gives a kitchen a nice, cozy feel.
- Paint/Backsplash. Opt for a clean, neutral tone, such as white, or off-white. This allows the kitchen to be decorated in many different ways and allows the buyers to imagine their colors in the kitchen. If new cabinets are too pricey opt to have your existing cabinets stained or painted.
Energy Efficient
With rising energy costs and an increasing awareness of environmental issues, energy-efficient homes are more appealing than ever. Features like double-paned windows, modern HVAC systems, solar panels, and smart home technologies are major selling points. Homes that offer lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint attract a wide range of buyers.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Boise residents love the outdoors, and homes that offer attractive outdoor living spaces are highly prized. This could mean professionally landscaped gardens, patios, or an outdoor kitchen. Especially in scenic Boise, a well-designed outdoor space can be just as important as the interior. Your yard doesn’t need to be huge, but having it well-maintained and adding a few features can attract buyers. A few suggestions:
- A covered patio. You can purchase a covered patio from Costco, Wayfair, and other companies for around $1500 if you don’t want to invest in having one built. Lay down pavers, decking, pea gravel, or turf, or invest in a small cement pad if there isn’t one already in place.
- Remove any eyesores such as huge trampolines, sheds in disrepair, or broken fence panels. Paint your fence if needed and your deck before going on the market. Fresh paint gives the impression of new and sells!
- Lawn and greenery. Make sure the grass is green and mowed before going on the market. Add a few more sprinkler cycles a month or so before going on the market in the warmer months. If you have trees touching the roof, or dead branches get them trimmed.
Flexible Living Spaces
As remote work has become more common, homes with extra rooms or adaptable spaces are in demand. Areas that can serve as home offices, gyms, or recreational rooms add considerable appeal. Homes with these versatile spaces meet the evolving needs of today’s buyers, who are looking for more than just a place to sleep. As a relocation expert, the majority of those relocating to the Boise metro area are working remotely, and having a designated office or den is a huge plus. Having a room or area set up in your home that showcases as an office area can be very appealing to buyers.
Proximity to Amenities
Location remains a key factor in real estate, and homes in Boise close to amenities like shopping centers, parks, schools, and public transport tend to sell faster. A great location enhances lifestyle convenience, which is a huge draw for buyers at all stages of life. You may not have the location that every buyer desires, but hiring a real estate agent who knows your area and will market key amenities such as parks, schools, recreation areas, shopping, and dining will help your home stand out to buyers who are less familiar with the area.
Selling a home in Boise? Focusing on these features can make your property stand out in a competitive market. Whether through small upgrades or major renovations, aligning your home with these buyer preferences can lead to a quicker and more profitable sale.
As a five-star reviewed real estate agent and relocation specialist, I bring over 20 years of experience in sales, negotiations, and deep knowledge of the local market. My commitment to providing above-and-beyond service is designed to make your transition into or out of a home as seamless as possible. I am dedicated to analyzing market trends and data full-time, ensuring that you are making the most informed decisions in these changing times.
If you are considering selling a home in Boise, Idaho, or the surrounding Treasure Valley your home let’s set up a free, no-obligation listing consultation. During this 45-minute consult, you can get your questions answered by an expert and leave with a better understanding of the home selling process, the current real estate market, and trends that could impact finding a buyer and getting the best price. See below to set up the consult.
