Gone are the days of hot tubs and tiled countertops. Today’s home buyers crave clean lines, open spaces and modern amenities. Whether you’re getting ready to build your House for sale in Boston, MAor are curious how you can reach those who are looking for a Apartment building in Miami, FLread on. This article analyzes eight outdated trends and provides insights from Redfin Premier agents on which trends may be turning off prospective buyers.
By understanding these outdated elements, you can make more informed decisions about necessary updates and prioritize improvements that will generate more interest when it’s time to list your home. Now let’s get started.
1. Avoid the whirlpool
Once a symbol of luxury, the hot tub has fallen out of favor with many modern buyers. Because it’s larger and inconvenient for those who prefer to shower, it may be time to remove your hot tub and opt for a more modern shower design that will appeal to a wider audience.
In a recent Redfin survey Redfin Premier Agents reported that 58% of buyers are not interested in this feature at all.
Instead, opt for an elegant shower or a deeper, versatile bathtub.
2. Replace linoleum floors
Linoleum flooring was once a popular and practical choice for homeowners. However, it is now widely considered an outdated home decor trend.
With a staggering 88% of buyers expressing no interest, it’s clear that this flooring option can significantly reduce interest. Upgrading to hardwood, tile or laminate flooring can provide a more modern look and pique a buyer’s interest.
3. Update outdated devices
While vintage aesthetics are making a comeback in some areas, old appliances should be upgraded. Modern buyers expect modern amenities and outdated equipment can leave a negative impression.
Top realtors report that 31% of buyers won’t even make an offer if the appliances are outdated. Investing in new appliances like a stainless steel refrigerator can drastically improve the look of your kitchen.
4. Replace tile countertops for a modern look
In the 1990s and early 2000s, tile countertops were a popular option. Now they have clearly fallen out of favor.
According to Redfin’s survey, 85% of buyers are no longer interested in this style and have turned to granite instead, with 51% of buyers expressing interest. Other alternatives to tile countertops include quartz, marble, soapstone, or any other pleasing combination that complements your kitchen. Kitchen design.
5. Open your floor plan
Open floor plans have dominated the housing market for several years now, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down.
A spacious and connected living area is highly desirable, with 83% of buyers from the Redfin survey saying it’s a top priority. If your home has a closed floor plan, consider knocking down walls to create a more open and airy feel.
6. Neutral colors
Bold and bright accent walls and wallpaper were once popular design options, but tastes have shifted toward a more neutral and sophisticated aesthetic.
According to Redfin Premier’s realtor survey, 69% of buyers said they have no interest at all in brightly painted accent walls, and 61% are not interested in wallpapered rooms.
Neutrally painted walls can appeal to a wider range of buyers and help them envision a space in which they can incorporate their interests.
7. Rethink the dog washing station
Although pet-friendly homes are in demand, special dog washing stations in the home are not always desired.
58% of buyers expressed no interest in this addition. Unless you already have a dog washing station, consider converting the space into a mudroom or additional storage space.
8. Remove popcorn ceilings
Popcorn ceilingsonce a common building element, are now considered outdated and may even contain asbestos.
Redfin Premier agents have found that a whopping 40% of buyers won’t make an offer if a home has a popcorn ceiling. Removing this textured surface can be a worthwhile investment to expand your buyer pool.
Additional insights from the Redfin Premier Agent Survey:
Agents were asked: How common are luxury home buyers asking about the following bathroom amenities?
| Furnishing | Most likely | Quite likely | not likely at all |
| bidet | 4% | 31% | 65% |
| Integrated sound system | 14% | 45% | 42% |
| Steam shower | 8th % | 50% | 42% |
| Underfloor heating | 17% | 44% | 39% |
Agents were asked: How often does a buyer decide not to make an offer after noticing the following features while touring a home?
| Special feature | Very ordinary | Quite common | Not at all common |
| Outdated kitchen | 54% | 43% | 3% |
| Outdated bathroom | 44% | 53% | 3% |
| Lack of attractiveness | 48% | 47% | 5% |
| Overly structured walls | 31% | 50% | 19% |
The results may vary individually. This is not a substitute for the services of a licensed real estate broker or a licensed and insured real estate service provider or appraiser.
Agent survey methodology: This is according to a survey commissioned by Redfin, the technology-based real estate brokerage. Around 300 Redfin Premier agents responded to the survey, which Qualtrics conducted in April-May 2024. The relevant questions were:
- How often does a buyer decide not to make an offer after noticing the following features while touring a home?
- How attractive is each of these home trends to buyers?
- How often do luxury buyers ask for the following bathroom items?
