Home Improvements That Attract Generation X Homebuyers
Every generation has its own set of unique characteristics and values. Understanding this information can give you a leg up against the competition in a housing market that still favors the buyer. Here is our top list of home improvements that can attract buyers from Generation X.
Who is Generation X? Those born between 1965 & 1977
Generation X Key Features:
- 75% have children and most of those children are currently living at home
- Most work full-time and are part of a dual income household
- 82% are currently homeowners
Attracting Generation X Home Buyers:
Move-in Ready: Generation X is drawn to something that’s move-in ready, preferring to allocate their precious time to their families and their careers, rather than fixing up a home.
Size Matters: This group, in particular, is prone to buying the largest home their money will buy. Make your home appear larger, and more functional, by staging rooms that can serve multiple purposes (think of a current playroom that can later be converted into a fitness room). Eat-in kitchens, rather than formal dining rooms appeal to this demographic for this reason.
Modern Kitchens: If there’s one improvement you can make for this generation, it’s a high-end kitchen with stainless steel and energy efficient appliances, generous counter space and high-end countertops. Generation X sees the kitchen as the nucleus of the home and considers a high end kitchen a point of pride.
Storage: Having come to age in the days of Madonna & “Materials Girl”, this generation values their possessions. Whether it’s usable attic space in the home or garage, built-in closet shelving, walk-in closets, not having enough storage can be a factor that allows other homes to get chosen ahead of yours.
Decking: Decking provides a place for a family to enjoy the outdoors together. Score extra points with Generation X by having a deck that is compromised with low-maintenance materials that are surrounded by a pool (another major must for this demographic).
Fireplaces: In a recent survey performed by marketing company, GFK Roper, Generation X listed fireplaces rounded out the top 3 home amenities that they seek out in a home. Fireplaces provide warmth and aesthetic appeal. A fireplace can evoke a feeling of warmth and comfort and for a generation that cherishes family, a room with a fireplace promotes congregating.
Maintenance-Free Living: Generation X places a premium on their free time, preferring to spend it with their family, rather than on household chores. Feeling content with the amount of time they spent on them as a child, they’re attracted to household features such as: composite decking, durable siding and clog-free gutters.
