What once felt like luxury living is quickly becoming the norm. Thanks to evolving buyer expectations, smart home innovations, and competitive new builds, many features that were once exclusive to high-end homes are now standard in today’s market.

Whether you're buying, selling, or upgrading your space, here are the top former luxury features that buyers now expect in 2025.

1. Smart Home Technology

Then: A futuristic extra.
Now: A modern essential.
From app-controlled thermostats and lighting to video doorbells and smart locks, today’s buyers expect homes to be connected. Homes without smart features may even be seen as outdated in 2025.

2. Quartz Countertops

Then: A high-end kitchen upgrade.
Now: A go-to standard.
Durable, low-maintenance, and stylish, quartz countertops have replaced granite as the new norm in kitchen and bathroom design.

3. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring

Then: A budget-friendly hardwood lookalike.
Now: The preferred flooring choice.
LVP offers the look of hardwood with water resistance, scratch protection, and easy maintenance—making it a standard pick in homes at all price points.

4. Energy-Efficient Appliances

Then: A green bonus.
Now: An expectation.
Today’s buyers are prioritizing efficiency. ENERGY STAR® appliances, tankless water heaters, and high-efficiency HVAC systems aren’t considered upgrades anymore—they’re a must-have for cost savings and sustainability.

5. Open Floor Plans and Flexible Spaces

Then: A premium layout.
Now: A layout buyers demand.
In 2025, open living spaces, multi-functional rooms, and home offices are standard in new homes. Flexibility for remote work, wellness, or guests is key to modern design.

6. Spa-Like Bathrooms

Then: A resort-inspired indulgence.
Now: A self-care staple.
Features like rainfall showers, freestanding tubs, heated floors, and floating vanities are making their way into mid-range homes—and buyers love them.

7. Outdoor Living Spaces

Then: A luxury bonus.
Now: An everyday essential.
Covered patios, built-in grills, and cozy seating areas are no longer just for luxury listings. Outdoor spaces have become must-haves for entertaining, relaxing, and expanding square footage.

8. Walk-In Pantries & Ample Storage

Then: A builder upgrade.
Now: An organization must-have.
Today’s buyers want smart storage solutions, from walk-in pantries to mudrooms and built-in shelving. Functionality is front and center.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, the line between luxury and standard features is blurring. What once turned heads is now expected—especially among younger buyers and tech-savvy homeowners.

If you're preparing to sell, upgrading with these now-standard features can help you stay competitive. And if you're buying, make sure you're getting the modern value your investment deserves.

Have questions about what's trending in your market? Let’s connect and talk strategy.**