When it comes to homebuying, Gen Z is redefining what makes a house a dream home. Unlike previous generations, this next wave of buyers prioritizes smart technology, sustainability, and functional spaces over sheer square footage. According to the Christie’s International Real Estate Luxury Forecast, Gen Z homebuyers crave efficiency, convenience, and eco-conscious living.

If you’re thinking about selling your home, understanding these key trends can help attract the next generation of buyers. Here’s what Gen Z wants—and how you can make your home stand out.

1. Smart Tech is a Must-Have

For Gen Z, a smart home isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. More than 85% of Americans own at least one smart home device, and Gen Z buyers expect high-tech features like smart thermostats, voice-controlled lighting, and keyless entry. 

If your home isn’t already “smart,” simple upgrades—like installing a Ring doorbell, Nest thermostat, or Wi-Fi-enabled lighting—can make a big impact on buyers.

2. Work-from-Home Spaces Are Essential

With remote and hybrid work becoming the norm, a dedicated home office is now a top priority. Nearly 41% of workers have hybrid schedules, and Gen Z strongly values work-life balance.

If you’re selling your home, highlight spaces that can double as a home office, study nook, or creative workspace. If space is limited, simple staging—like adding a desk and good lighting—can help buyers envision a functional work-from-home setup.

3. Sustainability Sells

Gen Z buyers care deeply about eco-friendly living, with 91% stating they would pay more for a home with sustainable features. Popular green upgrades include:

• Solar panels for energy efficiency
• Smart thermostats to reduce energy consumption
• High-quality insulation to lower heating and cooling costs
• Eco-friendly materials like bamboo flooring or recycled countertops

As a seller, highlighting energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and native landscaping can make your home more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.

4. Smaller, Smarter Spaces 

Unlike previous generations, Gen Z isn’t interested in oversized homes. Instead, they prefer functional, minimalist spaces that are easy to maintain.

According to a recent survey, 52% of respondents prefer a smaller home, and 81% value a simpler design. This trend aligns with the rise of quiet luxury, where high-quality materials and understated elegance take precedence over size and brand names.

To appeal to this trend, sellers should emphasize:

• Efficient layouts with multi-purpose rooms
• Low-maintenance materials like granite countertops and brick exteriors
• Sleek, modern designs with a minimalist aesthetic

5. Outdoor Spaces Are More Important Than Ever

Since the pandemic, homebuyers—including Gen Z—are prioritizing outdoor living spaces. Whether it’s a balcony in the city or a full backyard retreat, buyers want access to private outdoor areas where they can relax and entertain.

To enhance your home’s outdoor appeal, consider:

🌿 Adding cozy seating or a firepit for year-round enjoyment
🌱 Incorporating native landscaping for easy upkeep
🏡 Highlighting existing features like patios, gardens, or rooftop decks

As more Gen Z individuals enter the housing market, the priorities for what makes a perfect home are shifting. Technology, sustainability, and functional living spaces are at the forefront of these evolving preferences. As tech-savvy and eco-conscious buyers, this generation will likely influence home design trends for years to come.