Homebuyer Priorities in 2025: Kitchens, Outdoor Spaces & Smart Tech

The real estate landscape has shifted significantly over the past few years, and 2025 is no different. Today’s homebuyers are not just looking for square footage or prime locations—they’re making decisions based on lifestyle, functionality, and future-forward features. The pandemic altered what people value in a home, and those preferences have evolved into clear priorities: stunning kitchens, functional outdoor spaces, and cutting-edge smart home technology.

For those navigating the dynamic market of Los Angeles, these buyer preferences are especially evident. As a seasoned Realtor in Los Angeles, Sharlot Arabshahi sees firsthand how these features influence offers, drive bidding wars, and create long-term value for homeowners. Let’s explore these top three priorities and how they’re shaping the housing market in 2025.

modern kitchen

1. The Kitchen: Still the Heart of the Home

While trends come and go, the kitchen remains the centerpiece of modern living—and in 2025, it’s more important than ever. Buyers are drawn to open-concept designs that connect seamlessly to dining and living areas, allowing for a fluid lifestyle that accommodates everything from casual breakfasts to weekend entertaining.

Must-Have Features in 2025 Kitchens:

Large center islands with built-in seating
Professional-grade appliances (smart refrigerators, induction cooktops, double ovens)
Walk-in pantries with storage optimization
Sustainable materials like quartz, bamboo, and recycled glass countertops
Hidden charging stations and under-cabinet lighting

For homebuyers in Los Angeles, stylish kitchens are no longer just a luxury—they’re a necessity. In fact, recent Redfin data suggests homes with upgraded kitchens sell 30% faster and attract more competitive offers than those without.

“Buyers want to walk in and feel like they’re already home,” says Sharlot Arabshahi. “A well-designed kitchen often seals the deal.”

lux kitchen

2. Outdoor Living: The Ultimate Extension of Home

The rise of remote work and hybrid lifestyles has increased the demand for high-quality outdoor spaces. In 2025, buyers are not just looking for backyards—they want experiences.

Think resort-style outdoor areas that serve as extensions of the living room. Whether it’s hosting guests, relaxing with a book, or enjoying a meal al fresco, outdoor space is a key factor in purchase decisions.

Outdoor Trends in 2025:

Covered patios with retractable roofs and ceiling fans
Fully equipped outdoor kitchens and grilling stations
Fire pits and built-in seating zones
Drought-tolerant landscaping and native plants (especially relevant in Southern California)
Smart irrigation systems and mood lighting

In places like Los Angeles, where outdoor living can be enjoyed nearly year-round, these features are especially important. Homes with thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces can command premium pricing and sell faster.

Sharlot Arabshahi, a trusted Realtor in Los Angeles, notes that “many of my clients are willing to compromise on interior upgrades if the outdoor living area delivers that ‘wow’ factor. It’s a huge selling point.”

villa with pool

3. Smart Technology: The Modern Home Standard

In 2025, a home’s IQ matters. Buyers aren’t just looking for physical beauty—they want convenience, efficiency, and security. Smart home technology has moved from novelty to expectation.

Top Smart Tech Features Buyers Want:

Smart thermostats (like Nest or Ecobee) for energy efficiency
Voice-activated lighting and climate control
Keyless entry systems and smart locks
Integrated home security cameras and sensors
Whole-home automation systems (control everything via smartphone or voice command)

Homes that are equipped with smart features appeal to both tech-savvy millennials and busy professionals who value streamlined living. In high-end LA neighborhoods, homes with integrated smart systems are often at the top of the showing list.

The benefits aren’t just about convenience—smart tech can reduce energy costs and increase safety. Buyers see it as an investment in comfort and peace of mind.

Bonus Considerations: What Else Matters in 2025?

While kitchens, outdoor living, and smart tech are the big three, other priorities are influencing buyer decisions as well:

Sustainability: Solar panels, EV charging stations, and eco-friendly materials are increasingly desirable.
Home Office Space: Remote and hybrid work remain common, making home offices a must-have.
Multi-functional Rooms: Buyers love flex spaces—rooms that can serve multiple roles like gym, nursery, or creative studio.
Privacy and Noise Control: Soundproofing, fencing, and private entrances add value, especially in densely populated areas.

Buyers are more informed than ever, and they’re not just purchasing a home—they’re buying a lifestyle. In Los Angeles, this means aligning the property with the buyer’s values, aesthetics, and day-to-day routines.

How Sellers Should Respond

If you’re planning to sell a home in 2025, focus on the features that buyers prioritize:

Stage the kitchen to highlight open space and storage
Showcase your outdoor living area with twilight photography
List all smart features prominently in your MLS listing

Consulting a Realtor in Los Angeles like Sharlot Arabshahi ensures that you position your home for maximum visibility and appeal. From strategic pricing to marketing insights, an experienced agent helps you leverage trends instead of chasing them.

strategy discussion

Final Thoughts

In 2025, homebuyers are focusing on more than just bricks and mortar—they’re looking for intuitive, beautiful, and livable spaces. Kitchens that inspire, outdoor spaces that relax, and technology that simplifies life are no longer just perks—they’re priorities.

Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading your lifestyle, or preparing to sell, understanding these buyer trends is essential. In a diverse and fast-moving market like Los Angeles, being informed is your greatest asset.

Contact us today to connect with Sharlot Arabshahi, a top-tier Realtor in Los Angeles, and start your journey with a guide who knows how to turn buyer priorities into winning real estate outcomes.