What Today's Buyers Really Want in a Home

After working with buyers and sellers day in and day out, a clear pattern has emerged and it may surprise some sellers. Today's buyers are not as concerned about paint colors, countertops, or flooring. Those are cosmetic items they are happy to tackle themselves and in their own taste. What they are focused on are the big three: roof, HVAC, and plumbing.

Why? Because the homes in our North San Diego County market are aging. Many of the systems in these homes are at or near the end of their useful life, and buyers know it. A roof replacement, full HVAC system, or re-pipe is a five figure expense that buyers simply do not want to inherit on day one or can’t afford to fix themselves once putting down a hefty down payment.

And I am seeing this from the listing side too. As a listing agent, the first three questions I am asked about any home are the age and condition of the roof, HVAC, and plumbing. Every single time.

When I work with sellers, one of the first conversations we have is about these three systems. Addressing them ahead of listing or pricing accordingly can make the difference between a smooth sale and a deal that falls apart during the inspection. If you are thinking about selling and wondering where to focus your energy and budget, let's talk. A quick walkthrough can tell us a lot.