Listening to What Buyers Actually Want
When it comes to buying a home in Kansas City, it’s not just about bedrooms and bathrooms anymore. Today’s buyers are focused on comfort, efficiency, flexibility, and smart investments—and according to the National Association of REALTORS®’ latest research, there are clear patterns in what people want from a new home. 
At Realty ONE Group Esteem, we believe your home should reflect your life—not just your budget. That’s why our agents go beyond the listing to help you uncover the homes that truly fit your needs, your now, and your next.
Let’s take a look at what home buyers are saying matters most in 2024—and how our agents make those priorities happen.
1. Energy Efficiency Is a Top Priority
Features like ENERGY STAR® appliances, efficient windows, and insulation ranked high on buyers’ must-haves. Lower utility bills and a smaller environmental footprint are winning features in today’s market.
🟡 How we help: Our agents help you spot energy-saving upgrades and understand long-term savings. We also connect you with inspectors and experts who can verify home performance beyond what you see online.
2. Laundry Rooms and Functional Storage Spaces
The humble laundry room has become a buyer favorite—alongside walk-in pantries, linen closets, and garage storage. Buyers want homes that make daily life easier.
🟡 How we help: We make sure you’re not just touring beautiful homes—but ones that actually work for your lifestyle. Whether you’re a busy parent or a minimalist in need of clean lines, we’ll help you assess layout and flow with your day-to-day in mind.
3. Open Layouts with Defined Spaces
Buyers still love open-concept living, but there’s a shift toward wanting some defined spaces—like home offices or reading nooks—especially among remote workers.
🟡 How we help: Our agents know which Kansas City neighborhoods feature flexible floor plans or new builds with dedicated workspaces. We also help you see the potential for smart modifications in existing homes.
4. Outdoor Living and Patios
From covered patios to fully landscaped yards, outdoor living continues to be essential. Buyers want space to entertain, relax, and enjoy more time at home.
🟡 How we help: We guide buyers toward homes with outdoor features already in place—or help you envision easy upgrades that add long-term value and everyday joy.
5. Smart Home Technology
Tech-forward features like smart thermostats, video doorbells, and security systems are gaining momentum. Buyers want homes that are not only comfortable, but also connected.
🟡 How we help: Our agents know what tech upgrades are truly worth it—and which ones might be overhyped. We help you factor in what’s included and what’s worth investing in down the line.
6. Kitchens That Work Hard and Look Good
Central islands, walk-in pantries, and plenty of counter space top the list for kitchen must-haves. The kitchen is still the heart of the home—especially for buyers who cook, gather, or work from the breakfast bar.
🟡 How we help: We help you think beyond style to functionality. Need space for multiple cooks? A breakfast nook? Storage for big-batch meal prep? Your agent can help you prioritize what really matters in your day-to-day kitchen life.
7. Main-Level Primary Bedrooms
Main-level living is trending, especially among multi-generational buyers and those planning for aging in place. Buyers are thinking long-term—and layout matters.
🟡 How we help: Whether you’re buying your forever home or thinking ahead to future needs, our agents can identify homes that will age well with you, your lifestyle, and your family dynamics.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About Features—It’s About Fit
At the end of the day, buyers aren’t just looking for trendy features—they’re looking for homes that fit how they want to live. That’s where Realty ONE Group Esteem shines. Our agents combine market knowledge with a deep understanding of what’s possible, helping Kansas City buyers see the full picture—not just the listing photos.
We don’t just help you find a house—we help you discover your next chapter.
Let’s Talk About What’s Possible
If you’re ready to see what a realtor can do for you, we’re prepared to help. Contact Realty ONE Group Esteem today, and let’s turn your real estate goals into reality—one home, one dream, one life at a time.
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