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

If you’re in the market for a home this fall, your focus likely extends beyond just the price tag or square footage. The properties that catch attention now are those that not only look appealing but also function well in everyday life.

This means considering how the layout accommodates your daily activities, the efficiency of the home’s systems, and how well it’s equipped for long-term comfort and stability. According to Zillow’s analysis of Fall 2025 listing data, buyers are increasingly prioritizing features that blend soothing design with practical resilience. Search terms like “cozy,” “solar,” and “whole-house battery” are popping up more frequently, indicating a shift in buyer priorities.

If you’re actively touring homes or planning to, here are some key aspects to observe as you explore each property, along with a few questions to consider before 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’s most popular listings often feature layouts that feel intuitive and comfortable to navigate. Instead of sprawling, overly styled spaces, many buyers are leaning towards homes with distinct areas. Den spaces, built-in benches, and smaller living areas that offer privacy or a sense of retreat are gaining traction.

Zillow notes that the term “cozy” is appearing in listings more often this year compared to the past two. This trend is reflected in design choices as well, with matte finishes, natural wood, stone accents, and earth-toned color palettes becoming more common.

As you walk through a home, pay attention to how the layout feels. Can you envision unwinding here at the end of the day? Are there spots to escape to, or does it all blend into one large room?

Older charm with updated systems

If you find yourself touring a home with original woodwork, vintage tile, or arched doorways, take a moment to look beyond the surface. Many of this fall’s most sought-after listings combine classic features with modern plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or roofing.

The sweet spot is a home that exudes character while functioning as if it’s already passed 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 completed. Aesthetic charm can be a bonus, 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 help 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 connect to a central hub or operate independently. Some setups are straightforward and beneficial, while others might involve ongoing subscriptions or complex apps.

Focus less on the number 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 significant increase in listings that mention solar panels or whole-house battery storage. These features are particularly attractive in areas 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 also minimize unexpected maintenance and help the home endure over time.

If you’re touring properties in regions prone to storms, heatwaves, or fire risks, ask whether the home includes any climate-adaptive features. They might not be flashy, but they can make a significant difference in the long run.

Bathrooms, storage, and daily ease

One area where trends and practicality intersect 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 offer flexibility for various household needs.

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

As you 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 for how you live?

What to watch out for

While some homes shine for the right reasons, others may show signs of over-personalization or neglected maintenance. Highly specific paint choices, lawns that require constant attention, or appliances nearing the end of their lifespan are becoming easier for buyers to overlook.

Even some smart systems can turn into a drawback if they’re poorly integrated or come with hidden costs. If a home feels overloaded with automation but nothing is connected, or the seller can’t explain how it operates, that could indicate more hassle than value.

Outdated wiring, inadequate insulation, and older HVAC units are also red flags. Many buyers are now 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 just a list of features. It’s about understanding how a space will support you not just at closing, but in the seasons and years to come.

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

We help buyers evaluate homes with both lifestyle and logistics in mind. This means pinpointing which elements are worth investing in and which could pose challenges down the line. 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.