If you flip through a home design magazine, you’ll see the latest features people want in their homes. It’s helpful to know that Pantone’s Color of the Year is an off-white called Cloud Dancer and that designers now prefer quartz over granite or marble. But it’s just as important to understand what buyers are looking for outside the home itself.

Walkability. People want more than a place to live: they want neighborhoods where they can walk to restaurants and shops, or enjoy a nearby park. This desire for walkability is leading buyers to urban and suburban areas where they can be active both at home and in the community.

Community and character. Buyers today want a sense of community, whether that means attending farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts or other local events. They are looking for places where they can get involved and feel connected.

Commuter convenience. As more people return to the office, even part-time, they are looking for homes that make commuting easier. Easy highway access or several routes to work are important to them.

Schools. Good school districts attract more than just families. Many buyers know that homes in these areas usually have higher resale and property values.

Green space. Outdoor living is a big attraction for buyers on the East Coast. Whether they want a beach getaway or nearby trails for hiking and biking, buyers are looking for easy access to nature.

These are just some of the features buyers ask about at Long & Foster. If you want to learn more about what people in your area are looking for, our team at Long & Foster Real Estate is here to help. Every market is unique, and your local Long & Foster agent can share both market stats and personal insights about what’s happening in your community.