According to Realtor.com’s 2025 Home Trends Report, WaterSense fixtures topped the list of fastest-growing home features with a staggering 289.6 per cent year-over-year increase in listing mentions in the US.
These water-saving fixtures, which reduce water use by at least 20 per cent, carried a median listing price of approximately $628,000.
The analysis, which examined millions of property listings, revealed that biophilic/indoor-outdoor design ranked as the second-fastest growing feature, up 162.6 per cent compared to last year.
These designs, which blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, commanded a median listing price of nearly $859,000.
Energy efficiency features also saw significant growth increasing by 100 per cent and EV charging stations up by 91.6 per cent.
This trend reflects growing consumer interest in reducing utility costs and preparing for an increasingly electric future.
“We’re seeing homeowners prioritise features that make their properties more efficient, resilient, and self-sustaining,” Anthony Smith, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, said.
“Buyers increasingly view eco-friendly upgrades as both a lifestyle choice and a smart financial investment, especially as energy costs and climate concerns become part of everyday decision-making.”
Technology integration continues to influence home design, with features like built-in coffee systems, smart lighting scenes, and hardwired ethernet connections all ranking among the top 15 fastest-growing trends.
These features highlight the lasting impact of hybrid work arrangements and increasingly digital lifestyles.
The report also identified several declining trends, suggesting a shift away from more opulent or space-heavy features.
Formal dining rooms with built-ins decreased by 25.3 per cent, infinity-edge pools fell by 24.7 per cent, and three-car garages declined by 19.1 per cent.
Despite these changes, some classic features remain in high demand. Home offices saw a 56.5 per cent increase, while fully fenced yards jumped 61.2 per cent.
Hot tubs, vaulted ceilings, and finished walkout basements continue to be among the most commonly mentioned features in listings.
The data provides valuable insights for homeowners considering renovations or upgrades.
Features like outdoor low-voltage lighting (up 91.1 per cent) and solar with battery backup (up 61.2 per cent) represent the intersection of sustainability and practical living that today’s buyers increasingly seek.
For higher-end properties, trends like coastal modern design (up 125.6 per cent) and aged metal accents (up 79.8 per cent) are gaining traction, with median listing prices of $1,275,000 and $1,700,000 respectively.
“A decade ago, buyers might have asked about open floor plans or granite counters,” Mr Smith said.
“Today, they’re looking for EV chargers, high-speed wiring, and homes that can adapt. The definition of what makes a home modern has completely evolved.”
