What home buyers are looking for in the Northern Districts

Every home buyer will have their own wish list when searching for their next home – ranging from features that are not negotiable to those that are nice-to-have, but not essential.

Buyers in the Northern Districts are no different. Here are some of the features I hear again and again when chatting to house hunters in Thornleigh and beyond.

What are Northern Districts home buyers looking for?

In recent years, I have found that many buyers want finished homes, where there is nothing to be done.

This is because many people are now time poor, with young children to raise and both parents working full time to pay the mortgage. For many, it’s too much of a stretch to move into a house that needs lots of renovation, such as a new kitchen or bathroom. What they want is to move in, unpack, and get on with their day-to-day life without too much disruption.

Of course, there are still home buyers who are looking for a project, but the majority don’t have the time or energy.

What features are important to home buyers?

A good balance between bedrooms and living space is  important. As a rule of thumb, a three-bedroom property can get away with one living space, but most buyers seeking four bedrooms will want a second living room. There has also been a very evident shift to multi-generational living in the one home. Properties with space for grandparents are also sought after. This includes both larger homes and those with space to add a granny flat.

One-level homes will always be popular, as they are suitable for both retirees and families with young children. Double garages are a desirable feature as many homeowners have two cars. A backyard is always a ‘nice-to-have’ for the kids, and while the buyers I talk to don’t have a specific need for a bush outlook, they do prefer to have some privacy in their outdoor space. Features like pools are a bonus, although not everyone wants one as they require regular maintenance.

Price bands are another factor. At the moment I’m seeing a lot of first ‘home’ buyers – those upgrading from unit or townhouses and looking for property in the $1 – $1.2 million dollar bracket. This particular price band is very popular, as is the second tier of buyers who are currently in a home but looking to upgrade to a new build and/or a bigger house.

Which locations are at the top of the list?

Location is always key, with most buyers wanting to be within one kilometre of a train station to make that commute to work easier.

Proximity to local schools is also essential for families seeking a home in the area, both for primary school and high school.

Three large shopping centres are also located in the general area. This means there isn’t such an importance on being close to amenities, as most homes in the district are just a short drive away.

How can an agent help boost the appeal of your home?

I am always happy to talk to property owners about what I am hearing from local buyers. In order to get the best sale price for your home, it is imperative that it appeals to the widest pool of buyers. This means that some level of renovations may be required. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean large, expensive changes. Sometimes a basic cosmetic facelift will do the trick.

But it’s also important to plan ahead, and make sure you spend money in places where it will actually add value, and this is where I can help. I am constantly speaking to those looking to secure their next home, and in the process gaining an understanding of what they want. So feel free to call me today – I’d love to let you know what kinds of buyers I am talking to at the moment.