Homebuyers embrace sustainability, efficiency in 2025

Americans are redefining home comfort and value by focusing on efficiency, sustainability and natural design, according to Realtor.com’s 2025 Hottest Home Trends Report.

Findings reflect a nationwide shift away from large, aesthetic features toward practical, eco-friendly and tech-driven living.

WaterSense fixtures — which reduce water use by at least 20% — were the fastest-rising feature in 2025, appearing 289.6% more often in listing descriptions than a year earlier.

Homes with these fixtures had a median listing price of about $628,000.

“We’re seeing homeowners prioritize features that make their properties more efficient, resilient and self-sustaining,” said Anthony Smith, senior economist at Realtor.com. “Buyers increasingly view eco-friendly upgrades as both a lifestyle choice and a smart financial investment — especially as energy costs and climate concerns become part of everyday decision-making.”

Nature and tech focus

Biophilic and indoor-outdoor design ranked as the second-fastest-growing trend, up 163% year over year.

These homes feature large glass doors, interior courtyards and living walls that blur the line between indoor and outdoor spaces. The median list price for homes with these features was $859,000.

Outdoor low-voltage lighting — which rose 91% — also reflected the growing interest in designs that balance sustainability, aesthetics and function.

Tech-focused upgrades remain key selling points.

Built-in coffee systems, smart lighting scenes, and hardwired Ethernet/Cat6 connections all ranked among the top 15 fastest-growing features. The report noted that reliable connectivity and automation now rival square footage in importance to buyers.

“A decade ago, buyers might have asked about open floor plans or granite counters,” Smith said. “Today, they’re looking for EV chargers, high-speed wiring, and homes that can adapt. The definition of what makes a home modern has completely evolved.”

Other popular features, declining trends

Among the top 10 fastest-growing features, coastal modern design rose 126%, while home gyms increased 91%.

City skyline views, aged metal accents and built-in coffee systems also appeared more frequently.

Other notable risers included soundproofing, cold plunge setups, solar and battery backup systems and fenced yards.

Some classic features remain popular. Home office and Zoom room mentions increased 56.5% — while fenced yards and finished basements continued to appeal to buyers seeking flexible, family-friendly layouts.

Certain luxury features are falling out of favor.

Mentions of formal dining rooms with built-ins dropped 25.3%, infinity-edge pools declined 24.7%, and three-car garages fell 19.1%.