All I want for winter

What might home buyers be looking for in the winter of 2021?

After the events of last year, it is possible that houses inviting comfortable long homestays will be more popular than ever. Many will not have forgotten what it was like to be in for the long haul. They want to stay warm for winter in a place where they can be entertained and have great experiences.

The fire pit

It seems that everyone is digging a hole in the ground for one these days, though in truth, most on the market sit above the ground.

Whether you love roasting marshmallows or just want the heat, nothing beats sitting around a fire pit. It’s easy to create some ambiance when you have a fire burning.

Outdoor fire pits may come in many looks and styles, but there are two main types to choose from – wood ones and gas ones. A woodburning fire pit offers a campfire feel but needs to be carefully watched and put out before bed, whereas a gas fire pit can be shut down with a flick of a switch.

Some choose to create an outdoor fireplace that is set into the ground, with the thought that the fire is better able to be controlled. A gas fireplace set down into the patio itself is another option, but not recommended if children are about – or grown-ups who may be tempted to try firewalking!

You don’t have to spend a lot of money as many home improvement and hardware stores sell simple and affordable firepits that you put together yourself.

Spas and hot tubs

Many long for that at-home escape where you can relax, let go of anxiety and ease muscle aches and joint pain. A hot tub or spa will tick the box for many buyers.

If you are considering adding a hot tub to your backyard in 2021, be aware that not all hot tubs are created equal and you need to consider the placement and type of jets the hot tub you plan to purchase has. Consider this:

You want the hot tub to be able to massage each and every muscle.

You want your hot tub to match your personal style and fit into your backyard space.

You want a hot tub with a seating arrangement that works for you.

Try before you buy. Do the wet test.

Lay of the land

Buyers are taking more notice of the yard – back, front and sides – with this extending to the topography. They are taking a more informed, measured look at the potential to site the trampoline, the half basketball court and the play equipment, as well as the pool.

Inside the home

Agents have seen a notable increase in buyers interested in smart home systems, along with wanting to know the ins and outs of how everything works.

Having a gas line to an outdoor kitchen is another tick.

For some buyers, it is a practical matter like the home heating system.

Others want decks that can be updated, easily maintained and allow for generous gatherings. Faces light up in the presence of quality fixed outdoor heaters.

The sunroom has come back into fashion, especially an all-season, all-weather room that can be used to entertain and to relax.

One high-end home agent said an extra-large recreational vehicle garage that had been purpose-built as an all-weather ‘play’ area had proved a winner with prospective buyers.

At almost all price points, it seems that people are keen to have more creature comforts in their homes than before, most likely through what they have experienced in 2020. The sense of home and use of space is that much more important than before.

All I want for