The Top Priority for 2025 Homebuyers
Shelly O'Neil January 13, 2025
Shelly O'Neil January 13, 2025
If you’re planning to sell your home in 2025, here’s the big news: buyers want move-in-ready properties. According to a Bright MLS survey, 56% of buyers rank move-in-ready condition as their top priority.
But what does that mean for you as a seller? Let’s break it down—why this trend matters, what buyers are willing to trade off for it, and how you can prep your home to stand out (even if it’s not completely turnkey).
With home prices still high, inventory slowly rising, and mortgage rates remaining elevated, buyers are focused on simplicity and cost control. A move-in-ready home is exactly what they need because:
No immediate repairs: Buyers don’t want to deal with renovations or DIY projects right after moving in.
Predictable expenses: Less risk of surprise repairs means buyers can stick to their budgets.
Quick enjoyment: A move-in-ready home means unpacking boxes, not juggling contractors.
It’s all about reducing stress and making the transition as seamless as possible.
Even though move-in-ready homes are the goal, buyers know they might need to make a few trade-offs. Bright MLS found that:
75% of buyers are open to smaller homes if it fits their budget or location preferences. Downsizing saves money and reduces maintenance.
64% of buyers are willing to look outside their ideal location if the home checks off other boxes, like affordability and move-in-ready condition.
39% of buyers are ready to stretch their budget for the perfect property, especially one that doesn’t need extra work.
These insights are gold for sellers—you can tailor your strategy to meet buyers where they’re at.
The great news? You don’t need to do a full renovation to make your home feel move-in-ready. Focus on the essentials:
Fix What’s Broken
Small repairs make a big difference. Patch holes, fix squeaky doors, and handle any obvious issues that could turn buyers off.
Freshen Things Up
A coat of neutral paint, updated light fixtures, or new hardware in the kitchen or bathroom can make your home feel modern and inviting without a huge expense.
Stage Like a Pro
Staging helps buyers picture themselves living there. Declutter, depersonalize and arrange furniture to show off your home’s best features.
Highlight Energy Efficiency
Buyers are paying attention to energy-saving features. Adding a smart thermostat or improving insulation could make your home more appealing.
Not every home is move-in-ready, and that’s okay! Plenty of buyers are still excited about properties with great potential. Here’s how you can make your home stand out:
Showcase What’s Great: Whether it’s a fantastic location, solid structure, or unique character, make sure buyers see your home’s strengths.
Offer Incentives: Repair credits or a home warranty can give buyers peace of mind about making updates themselves.
Whether your home is move-in-ready or needs a little TLC, there’s a buyer out there for it. The key is showcasing its potential and aligning with what today’s buyers want.
Thinking about selling your home? Let me help you every step of the way! From prepping your home to attracting serious buyers, I’ve got you covered. Let’s connect: https://calendly.com/shellyoneil
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