Fox Enterprise’ Darren Botelho and Ashley Webster study why the median age of first-time homebuyers has climbed to 40. Kevin Hassett discusses President Donald Trump’s 50-year mortgage plan.
One of many largest developments amongst U.S. owners this yr is water conservation.
Residence listings mentioning WaterSense fixtures — which cut back water use by no less than 20% — soared practically 290% between January and September in contrast with the identical interval final yr, in keeping with Realtor.com’s 2025 Hottest Residence Traits report launched Tuesday.
“We’re seeing homeowners prioritize features that make their properties more efficient, resilient, and self-sustaining,” Anthony Smith, senior economist at Realtor.com, stated in a press release. “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.”
Houses that includes WaterSense fixtures carried a median listing value of roughly $628,000, highlighting their recognition amongst mid- to upper-tier patrons, in keeping with Realtor.com.
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The rising concentrate on water-efficient options comes as the price of water has elevated throughout the U.S., placing some cash-strapped households liable to falling into “water debt,” in keeping with a Financial institution of America report launched in April.
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“The cost of water has increased significantly across the U.S. in recent decades,” the report famous. “In fact, water, sewer and trash collection services charges have risen at nearly twice the rate of overall consumer prices.”
FILE PHOTO: Water is seen in a bathroom. (Christof Koepsel/Getty Photographs)
Different sustainability-driven residence parts have been additionally in style this yr.
Mentions of biophilic and indoor-outdoor design, outside low-voltage lighting, net-zero-ready houses, coastal fashionable aesthetics and electrical automobile (EV) charging stations all rose considerably in listings, in keeping with Realtor.com
In the meantime, mentions of sure luxurious options noticed declines throughout residence listings.
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A ‘For Sale’ signal is posted in entrance of a single household residence on Oct. 27, 2022 in Hollywood, Florida. (Joe Raedle/Getty Photographs / Getty Photographs)
Listings referencing infinity-edge swimming pools, formal eating rooms with built-ins, and three-car garages declined yr over yr, in keeping with Realtor.com.
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“A decade ago, buyers might have asked about open floor plans or granite counters,” Smith added. “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.”
FOX Enterprise’ Daniella Genovese contributed to this report.
