This home feature immediately attracts buyers

Getting your home ready for sale is no easy task. From packing and deep cleaning to completing last-minute upgrades and renovations, the to-do list can seem endless.

That's why a clear plan is essential – and why working with a knowledgeable real estate professional can make all the difference.

While painting your home in neutral tones is a well-known strategy to help buyers imagine themselves in the space, there's more to creating a standout listing. Certain features of a home always attract buyers' attention.

In fact, real estate experts say there is one particular feature that immediately attracts potential buyers. If you pay special attention to it, you can sell faster and for a higher price.

Buyers love updated kitchens

The three real estate experts we spoke to agreed: A modern, high-quality kitchen is the top feature that always attracts prospective buyers.

“The kitchen is the focal point,” says Jan Ryan, broker owner at RE/MAX Direct. “An updated kitchen with a spacious island makes a home look move-in ready and saves buyers from costly remodels.”

What do potential buyers look for in a kitchen? According to Ryan, the right kitchen makes the dream of entertaining, socializing and living well come true.

While the specific kitchen features buyers are looking for may vary depending on your location and the type of property you own, in general, things like a functional floor plan, modern appliances, ample storage (think walk-in pantries), and natural stone countertops are high on the priority list.

Spacious eat-in kitchen islands are also popular, as are smart appliances and design options that make the room feel bright, airy and inviting.

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Other attractive home features

The kitchen may be the most important interior design element for potential buyers, but it's certainly not the only thing in the home they're paying attention to. According to real estate professionals, these three home features are also at the top of buyers' lists.

Outdoor living spaces

The pros agree: Just behind the kitchen, the garden or outdoor living space is one of the most important features that buyers value. This is especially true in warmer areas like California or Florida, where indoor and outdoor spaces often blend together.

She says that in Southern California, where Ryan operates, a tropical-style pool and panoramic views always fetch the highest prices.

“The garden is an extension of the living room,” she says. “For families, it means space to play. For professionals, it's a retreat to relieve stress. And for everyone, it's a lifestyle.”

A pool isn't the only thing that attracts a buyer's attention. Depending on your location, features such as patios, updated patios, hot tubs, landscaping, outdoor kitchens, or covered seating areas may be of greater importance. It is important to know what is in demand in your region.

Natural light

Carla Gericke, an agent with Porcupine Real Estate in New Hampshire, says natural light is of utmost importance to her clients, especially since winters in the area can feel long, dark and dreary.

“When you walk into a sun-filled kitchen or living room with south-facing windows with a potential buyer, you can practically see their shoulders slump,” she says. “Light influences mood, productivity and even health, so homes that maximize daylight immediately feel more inviting and uplifting.”

Buyers often look for large windows, open floor plans that don't block the sun, and an orientation that captures morning and afternoon light.

So if you've been thinking about replacing your windows or removing that old, overgrown tree that's blocking the light in your home, now might be a good time to do it.

Closed garage

Finally, Rebecca Hidalgo, CEO and designated agent at Integrity All Stars Realty, says enclosed garages are always a big hit with her clients.

Enclosed garages offer versatility, added security and the opportunity for additional storage space. They can be used to protect vehicles from the elements, converted into a rec room or home gym, or used to store items that don't fit in the house.

“The versatility of an enclosed garage is why adding one to your home is one of the best ways to increase the value of your home,” she says. “A buyer will never lose interest in your home because you have a garage, but they may lose interest in your home if you don’t have one.”