Vincent James Rizzo

Whenever potential home buyers are asked what they most want in a new house, their responses tend to favor utility and function. It seems, when looking for a house to buy, luxury takes a backseat to lower energy bills and more storage space for most buyers. In fact, according to a recent survey of home shoppers, more than 80 percent agreed on a few familiar features they desired above all others. For example, a separate laundry room was named by 92 percent of buyers as a must in their next house. Having a dedicated area for collecting and cleaning laundry was a nearly unanimous choice and popular across all age groups and demographics. Energy efficient appliances and windows were also near the top of the list, as was garage storage space – proving that, more than a gold-trimmed master suite, Americans want lower bills and places to store their stuff. But not all of the most-loved home features were purely utilitarian. In fact, 84 percent of respondents named outdoor living space among their must haves. A nice yard, patio, or deck provides outside space to enjoy and a place to entertain friends and family. Rounding out the list, exterior lighting, an eat-in kitchen, and hardwood floors were all near the top of buyers' wish lists.