Colorado Home Sellers: 10 Home Features Buyers Want

Paul Cardis, CEO of Avid Ratings, which conducts an annual survey of buyer preferences, identified these must-haves in new homes:

• Large kitchens with islands
• Energy efficiency, including energy-efficient appliances, super insulation, and high-efficiency windows.
• Home offices
• Main-floor master suite
• Outdoor living space
• Ceiling fans
• Soaking tub in the master suite and/or an oversize shower with a seating area
• Stone and brick exteriors rather than stucco or vinyl
• Community walking paths and playgrounds
• Two-car garages, but three-car garages are even more desirable

Source: MarketWatch, Steve Kerch (01/30/2010)