Property Purchase: What Buyers Really Want to See in Real Estate and How to Increase the Value
Wondering what potential buyers are looking for in your property? The answer is often more complex than you might think and can affect the selling price by up to 20%. This article reveals what buyers focus on and how to present your property in the best possible light.
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The topic briefly and concisely
The location is the most important criterion for over 85% of buyers and can influence the value by up to 20%.
The energy condition and visible modernisations can increase the sale price by 5-15%.
Transparent documentation and honest communication accelerate the sales process and build trust.
The sale of a property is a complex process where many factors determine success. Do you know which aspects truly convince buyers about a property and how these affect the achievable price? A property that meets the expectations of buyers can be sold up to 15% faster. We show you what buyers really want to see in a property, from location to the smallest detail of the amenities, and how you can use these insights to optimise your sales strategy and achieve the best possible return. A professional valuation forms the first foundation for this.
The Location: The Unbeatable Foundation of Property Value
The choice of location is the decisive criterion for over 85% of buyers. A good infrastructure with connections to public transport, proximity to schools, doctors, and shopping facilities can increase the value by up to 20%. Buyers scrutinise the residential environment, neighbourhood, and development potential of the micro-location. A quiet side street is often preferred to a noisy main road, even if this means a price premium of 5-10%. Long-term developments, such as planned construction projects, also play a role for 60% of buyers. An attractive location is thus the first and most important factor buyers truly want to see in real estate. Land registry regulations often provide initial clues about the surroundings. A detailed analysis of these factors is crucial for pricing.
Condition and Energy Efficiency: More Than Just Four Walls
The structural condition and energy efficiency of a property are increasingly becoming a focus for buyers. Approximately 70% of interested parties pay attention to its energy status, such as the quality of insulation and windows. A current energy certificate is not only mandatory but actively requested by over 80% of buyers. Properties with a good energy rating (e.g., Class A or B) often achieve a 5-10% higher selling price. Potential buyers want to know:
When were the latest renovations carried out (roof, heating, facade)?
Are there any signs of dampness or mould, which is a dealbreaker for 45%?
How old and efficient is the heating system? A replacement can cost up to 15,000 euros.
Are windows and doors modern and well-insulated? This can reduce heating costs by up to 25%.
Investing in visible modernisations, such as a new bathroom or a current heating system, can yield up to a 15% higher selling price. A professional renovation consultation can reveal potential opportunities here. These aspects are central to what buyers really want to see in properties and significantly influence the purchase decision.
Layout and Room Design: Where Functionality Meets Comfort
A well-thought-out layout and flexible room design are decisive factors for about 75% of buyers. The pure square footage is important, but the usability of the space is paramount. Buyers desire bright rooms and a practical arrangement that suits their lifestyle needs. An open living-dining area is preferred by 60% of buyers. Important considerations for buyers are:
Does the number of rooms meet the requirements? Families often need at least 3-4 rooms.
Is there a balcony, terrace, or garden? A must-have for 70% of buyers.
Is sufficient storage space available (cellar, attic, built-in wardrobes)? Lack of storage is a drawback for 30%.
Does the layout allow for flexible use, such as a home office? This is relevant for 55% of working professionals.
A floor plan that adapts to modern living concepts can speed up the sales process by up to 4 weeks. Therefore, optimal presentation of the floor plan is essential. These points highlight what buyers really want to see in properties when it comes to the structure of living space.
Equipment and Presentation: The first impression counts
High-quality features and an appealing presentation can make the difference and increase value by 5-10%. Buyers pay attention to details such as flooring, sanitary facilities, and overall material quality. A modern fitted kitchen is a significant plus for 50% of buyers. Clean, bright, and tidy rooms are essential during viewings; studies show that professional home staging can increase the selling price by up to 10%. The quality of property photography in the brochure also influences 90% of potential buyers. Even small upgrades, such as freshly painted walls (costing around 500-1000 Euros for an average flat), can significantly improve the chances of a sale. What buyers really want to see in a property is a well-kept home they can picture themselves in. The right sales documents support this impression.
Transparency and Documentation: Trust as a Selling Point
Complete and transparent documentation builds trust and speeds up the sales process by an average of 2-3 weeks. Buyers now expect a comprehensive insight into all relevant aspects of the property. This includes a current land registry extract (checked by 95% of buyers), energy performance certificate, detailed building plans, and for apartments, the minutes of the last three owners' meetings. Missing or incomplete documents can lead to distrust and price negotiations for 40% of buyers. Clear communication about known defects is also important; 60% of buyers rate honesty higher than concealing minor faults. The impact of expert reports can significantly strengthen buyer trust in this context. What buyers really want to see in real estate is an honest and well-documented sales process.
The Viewing: The Moment of Truth for Buyers
The property viewing is the crucial point in the buying process for 90% of buyers. Here, they want to experience the property with all their senses. Good preparation is therefore essential. Ensure a pleasant atmosphere: ventilated rooms, sufficient light, and a tidy environment. Allow enough time for each viewing, averaging 30-60 minutes. Be prepared for critical questions, for example about ancillary costs, renovations carried out, or the neighbourhood. About 65% of buyers have a second viewing, often with an expert. A well-prepared viewing appointment can increase the closing probability by up to 25%. Effective viewing tips and good buyer communication are invaluable here. This highlights what buyers really want to see in properties: an authentic and convincing on-site presentation.
To simplify the process for buyers and sellers, a neutral evaluation by Auctoa or a conversation with our ImmoGPT chat can provide clarity and answer many questions in advance. This ensures that your property appears in the best light and meets the expectations of potential buyers.
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Understanding what buyers really want to see in a property is key to a successful sale. It's about far more than just the price; location, condition, features, and transparent communication are crucial. A property that meets these criteria can not only achieve up to a 15% higher price but also find a buyer up to 30% faster. By putting yourself in the buyer's shoes and preparing and presenting your property accordingly, you significantly maximise your chances of selling. A data-driven valuation and sales strategy, like the one offered by Auctoa, is your path to the optimal sales outcome.
Additional useful links
Statistisches Bundesamt provides comprehensive information on construction price indices and the property price index in Germany.
Statistisches Bundesamt offers detailed tables on house prices and land prices.
Deutsche Bundesbank presents its indicator system for the residential real estate market, which summarises key figures.
Deutsche Bundesbank analyses the development of residential property prices and rents, especially the decline in 2023.
BORIS offers the central joint land value information system of the German federal states to view land values.
KfW provides information about funding programmes for individuals to acquire or renovate existing properties.
KfW presents funding options for the energy-efficient refurbishment of existing properties.
Deutsches Institut für Wirtschaftsforschung (DIW) analyses the development of purchase prices in the housing market and forecasts a possible turning point.
FAQ
What is the most important factor that buyers want to see in real estate?
The location is the absolutely most important factor. Good accessibility, infrastructure, and a pleasant living environment are decisive for most buyers and significantly influence the price.
How can I increase the value of my property for buyers?
Investments in modernisations (especially kitchen, bathroom, energy efficiency), an appealing presentation (home staging, good photos) and complete documentation can significantly increase the value and attractiveness for buyers.
What documents are particularly important for buyers?
Buyers value an up-to-date land register extract, the energy performance certificate, building plans, proof of renovations, and for condominiums, the protocols of the owners' meetings.
Is a professional property valuation worth it before selling?
Yes, a professional and neutral evaluation like the one offered by Auctoa helps to establish a realistic selling price. This builds trust with buyers and can expedite the sales process.
How does the condition of the property affect the purchase decision?
The condition is very important. Buyers pay attention to maintenance, potential renovation backlogs, and energy efficiency. A good condition justifies a higher price and reduces the selling time.
Does the size of the garden or balcony play a significant role?
Yes, for around 70% of buyers, outdoor spaces like gardens, balconies, or terraces are a very important criterion that enhances the quality of life and thus the property's value.
