Monday Market Update: What Buyers Want In 2026

Happy 2026! The Bobbi Decker Real Estate Team hopes that your new year is off to an amazing start. Whether you have welcomed 2026 with a quiet and content comfort or ushered it in full force with big dreams, we wish you all the best! In real estate, we are preparing for the spring selling season which often begins shortly after the Super Bowl. While rates, affordability and inventory will continue to drive the market – there will always be some people in a position to sell and some in a position to buy. So, what exactly DO buyers want in 2026? 

Better Homes and Gardens recently published their ‘2026 Design Trends Moving Real Estate.’ Realtor.com® summarized one of the top points in the article which defines ‘Curb Appeal 2.0’ and why it matters to buyers of today. Curb appeal has always been vital in real estate – as it is the first impression of the home in online photos and when driving by. But today’s buyers want more than fresh paint and colorful flowers. Here are 7 things that modern buyers want to see: 

#1:  The front yard should appear balanced, clean and well cared for.

#2:  The vibe of ‘effortless maintenance’ is in. Buyers don’t just want a yard that looks good – but one they can actually keep looking that way! 

#3: Environmental mindfulness remains key, think native plants, drought resistant landscaping and neatly mulched beds. 

#4:  Rather than ostentatious and over-landscaped, buyers prefer a ‘quiet confidence’ that builds enthusiasm for what the home offers inside too! 

#5: Outdoor living creates feelings of comfort, thus shaded seating areas and livable porches and patios are very appealing. 

#6:  Buyers who appreciate stylish and future-ready features will be impressed with EV-ready garages, energy efficient lighting and smart locks. 

#7: Small finishing touches that make a big difference are crisp house numbers, polished entry hardware and a freshly painted front door. 

To read the report with all six trends shaping home buying & selling from BHG, click HERE. 

Cheers to first impressions that make lasting impact! 

Bobbi 

Bobbi Decker
DRE#00607999

Broker Associate, Bobbi Decker & Associates
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