10 Home Features That Are Often Overpriced But Buyers Still Want Them (Plus 5 Special Ones)
Some home features come with a hefty price tag – but that doesn’t stop buyers from falling in love with them. Despite being expensive to install or maintain, certain upgrades continue to top wish lists because of the comfort, luxury, or status they offer.
Real estate experts know which features buyers will splurge for, even if the return on investment isn’t always clear-cut.
No matter if you’re renovating to sell or just curious about what makes homes irresistible, these are the features people can’t seem to resist. Here are 10 overpriced upgrades buyers still want – plus 5 special ones that stand out even more.
1. Smart Home Integration
Imagine controlling your entire house with just your voice or smartphone! Modern buyers are falling head over heels for comprehensive smart home systems that connect everything from lighting and security to climate control.
The convenience factor is simply irresistible. Busy professionals especially value the ability to monitor their homes remotely, adjust temperatures before arriving, or ensure doors are locked while away on vacation.
2. Chef’s Kitchen With Professional Appliances
Nothing makes home chefs swoon quite like commercial-grade appliances nestled in a spacious, well-designed kitchen. Six-burner gas ranges, double ovens, and built-in refrigerators have become status symbols for culinary enthusiasts.
Beyond just looking impressive, these kitchens offer genuine functionality. Large islands with prep sinks, pot fillers above the stove, and warming drawers transform cooking from a chore into a pleasure for serious entertainers.
3. Home Theater Experience
For movie buffs with cash to splash, nothing beats having their own cinema right at home. These aren’t just rooms with big TVs – we’re talking about dedicated spaces with tiered seating, sound-absorbing wall treatments, and projector systems that rival commercial theaters.
The best home theaters include integrated sound systems, automated lighting, and comfortable reclining seats. Some homeowners even add authentic touches like popcorn machines and mini-bars to complete the experience!
4. Spa-Like Primary Bathroom
Who wouldn’t want to start and end their day in a personal spa? Luxury buyers are willing to pay premium prices for bathrooms featuring rainfall showers, deep soaking tubs, and heated floors. Steam showers with multiple jets have become particularly coveted features.
Add in double vanities with designer fixtures, ambient lighting, and natural stone surfaces, and you’ve got a sanctuary that rivals five-star hotels. The ultimate bathroom splurge? Many high-end properties now include smart toilets with heated seats, built-in bidets, and self-cleaning functions.
5. Outdoor Kitchen and Entertainment Area
Summer gatherings reach new heights with fully equipped outdoor kitchens. Built-in grills barely scratch the surface of what’s possible in these alfresco cooking spaces. High-end outdoor kitchens now include pizza ovens, smokers, refrigerators, and even dishwashers – all designed to withstand the elements.
Surrounding these culinary stations, you’ll find comfortable seating areas, fire features, and sometimes even outdoor televisions. The magic happens when indoor and outdoor spaces flow seamlessly together, creating an expanded living area perfect for entertaining.
6. Resort-Style Swimming Pool
Forget basic rectangular pools – today’s luxury buyers want water features that transform backyards into private resorts. Infinity edges that create visual continuity with surrounding landscapes make even modest-sized pools feel special.
Adding waterfalls, swim-up bars, or integrated hot tubs elevates the experience further. For year-round enjoyment in cooler climates, heated pools with automatic covers have become increasingly popular among discerning buyers.
7. Home Gym With High-End Equipment
Fitness enthusiasts are willing to pay top dollar for dedicated workout spaces that eliminate the need for gym memberships. The pandemic only accelerated this trend, with home gyms becoming essential rather than optional for many luxury buyers.
Beyond just allocating space for exercise equipment, high-end home gyms feature specialized flooring, full-wall mirrors, and proper ventilation. Some even include separate areas for yoga, meditation, or dance.
8. Walk-In Closet System
Fashion lovers rejoice when they see a boutique-worthy closet! These aren’t just spaces to hang clothes – they’re carefully designed systems with dedicated areas for every type of garment and accessory.
High-end closets feature island dressers with jewelry drawers, shoe walls that display collections like art, and even seating areas for trying on outfits. Proper lighting is crucial, with fixtures designed to show true colors and minimize shadows.
9. Home Office With Built-Ins
Working from home has never been more stylish! As remote work becomes permanent for many professionals, dedicated home offices with custom built-ins have shot to the top of buyers’ wish lists.
The most coveted spaces feature floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, hidden storage for equipment, and ergonomic workstations. Sound insulation and proper lighting make these rooms functional for video conferences and focused work.
10. Heated Floors Throughout
Once you’ve experienced the luxury of warm floors on a cold morning, regular heating systems feel positively primitive! Radiant floor heating has become a must-have feature in high-end homes, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens.
Unlike forced-air systems that blow dust around, radiant heat works silently and invisibly underfoot. The technology has improved dramatically, with programmable zones and smart controls allowing for personalized comfort.
1. Dedicated Hobby Space
Whether it’s crafting, music, or woodworking, passionate hobbyists are willing to pay extra for homes with specialized spaces for their interests. These purpose-built rooms go beyond spare bedrooms, featuring custom storage, appropriate lighting, and necessary infrastructure.
For musicians, soundproofing and acoustic treatments transform ordinary rooms into recording-quality spaces. Artists benefit from north-facing windows providing consistent natural light throughout the day.
2. Custom Bar or Wine Lounge
Cocktail enthusiasts are raising their glasses to homes featuring dedicated entertainment spaces centered around custom bars. Unlike basement bars of yesteryear, today’s versions are sophisticated gathering spots integrated into main living areas.
High-end features include temperature-controlled wine fridges, ice makers producing crystal-clear cubes, and tap systems for beer or cocktails. Backlit shelving displays fine spirits and glassware like a high-end restaurant.
3. Dedicated Guest Suite
Hosting friends and family reaches new heights with private guest accommodations that offer hotel-like luxury and independence. Unlike simple spare bedrooms, true guest suites include private bathrooms and often separate entrances.
The most luxurious versions feature kitchenettes, sitting areas, and outdoor spaces designated specifically for visitors. Some homes even include completely detached guest houses with all the amenities of the main residence.
4. Meditation Room or Wellness Space
As mental wellness becomes increasingly important, dedicated spaces for relaxation and mindfulness have become highly desirable features. These serene rooms go beyond simple spare bedrooms, incorporating elements specifically designed to promote calm.
Features often include sound insulation, natural materials, and carefully controlled lighting. Some homeowners install salt walls, infrared saunas, or meditation gardens to enhance the wellness experience.
5. Temperature-Controlled Wine Cellar
Wine enthusiasts get weak in the knees for custom cellars that protect their valuable collections. Far beyond simple wine fridges, these dedicated rooms maintain perfect temperature and humidity levels while showcasing bottles in style.
The most impressive cellars feature custom racking systems, tasting areas, and sophisticated inventory management. Some homeowners opt for glass walls to display their collections as living art installations throughout the home.
