Real Estate News

Domain reveals top features on buyer wish lists

As Australiaโ€™s Spring selling season launches with heightened activity, Domain has released fresh insights into the design features topping the wish lists of property buyers.

With supply hitting its highest levels since March 2022, buyers are increasingly refining their preferences as the market begins to favour them.

In August, new listings across the combined capitals reached a record high for the month, marking the second consecutive month of supply growth and the fifth month of annual increases.

โ€œWith supply continuing to increase, Aussie home buyers may be making their dream home wish lists a little more specific as the Australian property market transitions to fall in favour of buyers,โ€ said Dr Nicola Powell, Chief of Research and Economics at Domain.

The research highlights that comfort-driven features such as ensuites, walk-in wardrobes, and bathtubs are dominating buyer demands this season.

According to Domain, 62% of Australians view a bedroom with an ensuite as a must-have, while 50% prioritise a walk-in wardrobe.

Bathtubs remain a favourite, with 36% of buyers considering them essential for their ideal home.

Thereโ€™s good news for house huntersโ€”Spring has kicked off with remarkable momentum, and with the surge in supply comes more choice and more time to make decisions.

Aussie homebuyers should feel more confident about finding a home that suits their lifestyle with fewer compromises needed on important features,โ€ said Dr Powell.

Beyond private retreats like bedrooms and baths, sustainability is a growing priority for 50% of homebuyers, who are increasingly seeking energy-efficient homes.

Additionally, 43% of buyers are now opting for single-storey homes, driven by the appeal of accessibility and convenience.

The desire for indoor-outdoor living remains strong, with 45% of Australians prioritising natural light, and half of buyers seeking outdoor entertaining spaces.

Interestingly, lifestyle features are proving more critical than high-tech amenities.

Domainโ€™s data reveals that 51% of Australians place greater importance on having a garden than on advanced security systems, showcasing a shift in preference towards spaces that enhance day-to-day living.

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Catherine Nikas-Boulos

Catherine Nikas-Boulos is the Digital Editor at Elite Agent and has spent the last 20 years covering (and coveting) real estate around the country.