“Location, location, location” as the familiar real-estate adage goes. Well, as it turns out, the adage may need to be rephrased as “amenities, amenities, amenities.” According to a recent survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), potential homebuyers are willing to pay more for (and possibly sacrifice some aspects of location for) certain home features.

Now, there are two important caveats to this. First, most homeowners who are most willing to pay more for these amenities fall within the 35-55 year age-range. While younger, first-time buyers are just looking to break into the market and build equity, these buyers are more likely to be invested their quality of life in and connection with the home. Second, although buyers say they are willing to pay more for these features, often they are not willing to pay enough to cover the actual costs — their eyes are bigger than their wallets.

Still, it’s a good idea to keep the following 10 amenities in mind when selling. One or more of them may be enough to convince a buyer to up their budget and make an offer.

1. Central Air Conditioning: 69% of homebuyers willing to pay an extra $2,520

A majority of people in all age groups emphasized the importance of central air conditioning and said that they were willing to pay more for it than any other feature except new kitchen appliances.

2. New Kitchen Appliances: 69% of homebuyers willing to pay an extra $1,840

New kitchen appliances are particularly important to those looking to buy a new home rather than a previously owned home.

3. Walk-in Closet in Master Bedroom: 60% of homebuyers willing to pay an extra $1,350

Buyers are looking for walk-in closets both as additions of space and as status symbols to be shown off on house tours.

4. Granite Countertops: 55% of homebuyers willing to pay an extra $1,620

Granite countertops are more of an aesthetic concern for buyers. Beautiful kitchens are incredibly desirable features for those looking to cook and gather in this central space.

5. Hardwood Floors: 54% of homebuyers willing to pay an extra $2,080

While many older homebuyers prefer carpet for its energy-saving and heat-insulating qualities, younger buyers are looking for hardwood, as it’s easier to clean and considered more aesthetically pleasing.

6. Ensuite Master Bath: 49% of homebuyers willing to pay an extra $2,030

This one goes along with the walk-in closets. Buyers are looking for master suites that feel like “getaways” or “sanctuaries.”

7. Kitchen Island: 48% of homebuyers willing to pay an extra $1,370

Kitchen islands have become more important to buyers as kitchens are increasingly used as casual, all-purpose gathering spaces for families and entertainment spaces for guests.

8. Stainless Steel Appliances: 41% of homebuyers willing to pay an extra $1,850

Again, stainless steel is more of an aesthetic concern for buyers who are focusing more on beautifully designed kitchens.

9. Eat-In Kitchen: 40% of homebuyers willing to pay an extra $1,770

Buyers with families are most concerned with having eat-in kitchens, while younger buyers are less concerned about this feature.

10. One or More Fireplaces: 40% of homebuyers willing to pay an extra $1,400

The survey speculates that, while fireplaces have always been popular, they may become more desirable as people spend less time watching TV. Buyers may find the fireplace a cozy place for gathering and using more mobile devices.

Unsurprisingly, buyers consider kitchens, bathrooms and closets extremely important features. However, there are some other structural amenities that are worth spending some time on. Capitalizing on a cozy fireplace as a selling point can help convince buyers make an offer — and perhaps spend a few extra dollars. And, as your Brick + Ember Outfitters, we advise getting a sweep inspection prior to selling so that you can market the safety and functionality (in addition to the coziness) of the fireplace.

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