March Madness isn’t just for basketball—it’s the perfect time for a bracket-style showdown of the most desirable home features. From open floor plans to smart home tech, what features truly capture buyers’ attention and drive resale value?
Follow along as we break down the competition and determine which home feature takes the championship crown.
Round one: the contenders
Open floor plan vs. gourmet kitchen
- Open floor plan: Creates a spacious, seamless flow between rooms, making homes feel larger and more inviting.
- Gourmet kitchen: High-end appliances, ample counter space, and a stylish design elevate cooking experiences.
Winner: Open floor plan! Open floor plans create spacious, connected living areas that appeal to a wide variety of buyers. They enhance flow and make spaces feel larger and more versatile.
Some buyers may still favor a gourmet kitchen for its high-end appliances and ample counter space, making it a dream for culinary enthusiasts or those who prioritize cooking and entertaining at home.
Smart home tech vs. energy efficiency
- Smart home tech: Features like smart thermostats, security systems, and voice-controlled lighting add convenience and appeal.
- Energy efficiency: Lower utility bills and eco-friendly benefits make energy-efficient homes a top choice.
Winner: Energy efficiency! Energy-efficient homes are attractive for their cost-saving benefits, especially with rising utility bills. They also appeal to buyers interested in sustainability and long-term savings.
However, smart home tech remains highly desirable for its modern convenience, offering features like voice-controlled lighting, security systems, and climate control for ease of living.
Luxury primary suite vs. outdoor living space
- Luxury primary suite: Spa-like bathrooms, walk-in closets, and relaxation-focused designs create a personal retreat.
- Outdoor living space: Patios, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens extend livable space beyond the walls.
Winner: Outdoor living space! These spaces add valuable square footage and provide an extended living experience. They enhance the lifestyle factor and are particularly appealing for those who enjoy outdoor entertaining.
For others, a luxury primary suite offers a private retreat with spa-like amenities, walk-in closets, and high-end finishes, making it highly desirable for those who prioritize comfort and relaxation in their personal space.
Finished basement vs. home office
- Finished basement: Extra living space for entertainment, guests, or even rental income potential.
- Home office: With remote and hybrid work still being prominent in today’s workforce, a dedicated office space is a must-have.
Winner: Home office! Hybrid and remote work has made home offices essential for many buyers. A dedicated space for work allows for better productivity and separation between work and home life.
Some buyers may still prefer a finished basement for its versatility—whether for entertainment, additional bedrooms, or rental income potential. It provides extra functional space or a private area for guests or hobbies.
Final four: the best of the best
Open floor plan vs. energy efficiency
Both offer significant buyer appeal, but which carries more weight in this March Madness bracket?
Winner: Open floor plan! Open floor plans are visually appealing and improve the flow of a home, offering a more inviting atmosphere and flexible layout.
However, energy efficiency remains a strong contender for its cost-saving benefits and environmental impact, appealing to buyers focused on long-term savings and sustainability.
Outdoor living space vs. home office
Lifestyle vs. practicality—what wins out?
Winner: Outdoor living space! Expanding functional space adds undeniable value. Outdoor living spaces offer additional usable square footage and a unique lifestyle experience, perfect for entertaining or relaxation.
For remote workers, a home office is still a top priority, providing a quiet, dedicated workspace essential for productivity and work-life balance.
Championship matchup: open floor plan vs. outdoor living space
Two powerhouse features go head-to-head in our ultimate march madness real estate bracket. While open floor plans enhance indoor flow, outdoor living spaces create an experience that buyers crave.
Champion: Outdoor living space! It boosts curb appeal, expands usable square footage, and elevates a home’s lifestyle factor. These spaces add significant value by extending the home’s usable space, making them ideal for outdoor activities and entertaining.
That said, open floor plans remain a favorite for their functionality and aesthetic appeal. Their open, airy design makes a home feel larger and more connected, appealing to buyers who value indoor versatility.
How photography highlights winning home features
No matter which feature wins, high-quality real estate photography plays a crucial role in showcasing these elements. Whether emphasizing the flow of an open floor plan or the relaxing atmosphere of an outdoor living space, the right images highlight a home’s most desirable aspects, ensuring they capture buyers’ attention.
📸 Key photography tips for showcasing top home features:
- Use wide-angle shots to emphasize space and flow.
- Capture outdoor areas during golden hour for the best lighting—or try a virtual twilight for the same effect!
- Highlight details like smart home tech and kitchen finishes with feature shots.
Your March Madness MVP is Virtuance!
The ultimate home feature bracket proves that lifestyle-focused elements win over buyers. Outdoor living spaces take the crown, but every feature has its unique appeal. Understanding what buyers value—and presenting it effectively—gives you a competitive edge in real estate marketing.
That’s where Virtuance comes in. With stunning HDReal® images, 3D tours, and floor plans, Virtuance ensures your listings’ best features shine, helping you attract more buyers and close deals faster.
Schedule a shoot today and let your listings stand out from the competition!
FAQ
Open floor plans create a spacious, connected feel, making homes appear larger and more versatile for various lifestyles.
Outdoor spaces extend functional living areas, enhancing entertainment options and adding curb appeal.
Energy-efficient homes attract buyers looking for long-term savings on utility bills and eco-friendly living.
With remote work still relevant, buyers prioritize dedicated workspaces for productivity and work-life balance.
High-quality images showcase key features, improve online appeal, and help attract more potential buyers.
