Cozy, Smart and Climate-ready: What to Look For When Buying a Home This Fall

If you’re on the hunt for a home this fall, you’re probably considering more than just the price tag or square footage. The properties that catch buyers' attention now are those that not only look appealing but also function well in everyday life.

This means thinking about how the layout fits your daily routine, how efficient the systems are, and how well the home is equipped for long-term comfort and stability. According to Zillow’s analysis of Fall 2025 listing data, buyers are increasingly focused on features that blend soothing design with practical resilience. Search terms like “cozy,” “solar,” and “whole-house battery” are becoming more prevalent, indicating a shift in priorities during the home search.

If you’re actively touring homes or gearing up to do so, here are some aspects to pay attention to as you explore each space, along with a few questions worth considering before you book your next showing.

Before you tour, ask yourself:

• What matters most in your daily routine?
• Are there features that make life easier, not harder?
• How much work are you willing to take on after closing?
• Do you want something already efficient, or are you open to upgrading?

Layouts that feel calm and easy to live in

This season, some of the most sought-after listings feature layouts that feel natural to navigate. Instead of overly spacious or excessively styled areas, many buyers are leaning towards homes with clearly defined spaces. Den areas, built-in seating, and smaller living spaces that offer privacy or a retreat are gaining traction.

Zillow reports that the term “cozy” is appearing in listings more frequently this year than in the past two. This trend is also evident in design choices. Matte finishes, natural wood, stone accents, and earth-toned color schemes are becoming more common.

As you walk through a home, take note of how the layout feels. Can you envision winding down here at the end of the day? Are there spaces to retreat to, or does it all blend into one large room?

Older charm with updated systems

If you’re touring a home with original woodwork, vintage tile, or arched doorways, it’s wise to look beyond the surface. Many of this fall’s most competitive listings combine classic features with updated plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC, or roofing.

The ideal scenario is a home that showcases its history while functioning as if it has already been through a thorough inspection. This includes essentials like working outlets and functional ductwork, along with newer insulation and modern water heaters.

If you’re exploring an older property, inquire about when the last major system updates were made. Aesthetic charm can be a plus, but it’s much easier to appreciate when it doesn’t come with a lengthy repair list.

Energy efficiency and smart systems that actually work

Features that lower monthly costs or enhance comfort are climbing higher on buyer wish lists. This includes smart thermostats, heat pump water heaters, zoned HVAC systems, and high-efficiency appliances.

Listings are also highlighting automated lighting, whole-home monitoring, or smart window treatments. If you’re checking out a home with any of these features, ask whether the systems are connected to a central hub or managed independently. Some setups are straightforward and beneficial, while others might require ongoing subscriptions or complicated apps.

Focus less on the quantity of gadgets and more on how they enhance livability. Are the systems user-friendly? Have they been well-maintained? Are they compatible with what you already use?

Climate-resilient upgrades

Zillow has noted a clear increase in listings that mention solar panels or whole-house battery storage. These features are particularly attractive in regions where weather disruptions, power outages, or extreme temperatures are becoming more frequent.

You might also come across listings that highlight drainage improvements, rainwater collection systems, sump pumps, or drought-tolerant landscaping. These upgrades aren’t just about being eco-friendly; they can also minimize unexpected maintenance and help the home endure over time.

If you’re touring properties in areas prone to storms, heatwaves, or fire risks, ask whether the home includes any climate-adaptive features. They might not be flashy, but they can significantly impact your comfort and safety in the years to come.

Bathrooms, storage, and daily ease

One area where trends and practicality are converging is in the bathroom. Spa-style layouts, especially wet rooms that combine the tub and shower into one open waterproof space, are becoming more common. These designs are easier to clean and more adaptable to various household needs.

Buyers are also paying attention to how laundry rooms, entryways, and kitchen storage are designed. Look for layouts that minimize friction. This could mean clean drop zones near the entrance, natural light in work areas, or well-organized utility spaces that don’t feel like an afterthought.

During your tour, consider how your daily routine would unfold in the space. Will you need to rearrange things just to function, or is it already set up to suit your lifestyle?

What to watch out for

While some homes are standing out for all the right reasons, others are starting to show signs of over-personalization or deferred maintenance. Highly specific paint choices, lawns that require constant upkeep, or appliances nearing the end of their life cycle are becoming easier for buyers to overlook.

Even some smart systems can turn into a drawback if they aren’t well-integrated or come with hidden costs. If a home appears overloaded with automation but nothing is connected, or the seller can’t explain how it works, that might indicate more hassle than value.

Outdated wiring, poor insulation, and older HVAC units are also top concerns. Many buyers are asking about energy bills upfront. If a listing can’t demonstrate how the home performs, it may not be worth pursuing further.

A practical lens for your home search

Buying a home this fall means looking beyond the list of features. It’s about understanding how a space will support you not just at closing, but in the seasons and years that follow.

This might involve asking questions about energy performance, grasping what certain upgrades actually do, or distinguishing between cosmetic staging and a home that is truly easy to live in.

We help buyers examine homes with both lifestyle and logistics in mind. This means identifying which elements are worth investing in and which could pose challenges later. It also means keeping you focused on what truly matters for your goals, not just what looks good in photos.

What are you looking for in a new home? We can help you find it.