In the real estate market, the interior design of some homes may increase the likelihood of a deal or the final selling price of the property. With changes in people’s lifestyles, homes with eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and smart features have become more popular over the past year.
According to the Residential Sustainable Development Report by the National Association of Realtors in the United States for 2025, over half (58%) of real estate professionals believe that highlighting energy-efficient features in property listings can increase the value of a home.
Los Angeles real estate agent, Kuri, has observed that many young buyers are more focused on the convenience, safety, and low maintenance costs of a home. Therefore, houses with features such as insulation, upgraded doors and windows, water-saving fixtures, and a complete smart home system are more desirable. Kuri said, “Some buyers are willing to pay more for these features, and these types of homes also sell better.”
A recent analysis by Realtor.com has revealed which home design trends are drawing the attention of both buyers and sellers.
The company analyzed data on homes for sale in 2024 and 2025, examining the frequency of specific residential features appearing in property listings, ultimately reaching the following conclusions.
Realtor.com found that among the top five fastest-growing interior design features, four are related to energy efficiency or “green” living. The most significant increase was seen in water-saving devices certified by “WaterSense,” which had a usage rate 289.6% higher than in 2024.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), products certified with the “WaterSense” label can reduce water usage by at least 20%, helping homeowners cut costs. Realtor.com noted that homes incorporating this energy-saving device have higher prices with a median price of around $628,000.
The second-ranked feature is Biophilic Design, which emphasizes incorporating natural elements into the interior spaces, creating seamless transitions between indoor spaces and outdoor environments like yards, gardens, or terraces. Homes with Biophilic Design features have a median price of approximately $859,000.
Coastal Modern design ranks third, characterized by a modern and minimalist style using natural materials and soft colors like white and blue to create bright, spacious, and refreshing spaces. Properties with Coastal Modern design features are predominantly found in the high-end residential market, with a median price of around $1.275 million.
Over the past year, two other features that have significantly grown in the real estate market are Net-zero ready homes and electric vehicle charging facilities.
Net-zero ready homes are highly energy-efficient and sustainable properties with infrastructure ready for easy upgrades to renewable energy systems like solar power. These homes may have super insulation, energy-efficient windows and doors, energy systems, and natural lighting designs to achieve net-zero energy consumption in the future.
In addition to the top five trending features, Realtor.com found that smart homes have become an essential feature in residential properties. Fast internet connection and smart control systems are factors that buyers are increasingly interested in.
As lifestyles evolve, Realtor.com has identified some interior design features that are no longer in vogue.
The demand for formal dining rooms with built-in cabinets has significantly declined by 25.3%. With open-plan designs becoming more popular, standalone dining spaces are losing their appeal.
Similarly, the demand for infinity pools has decreased by 24.7%, though they still remain a symbol of luxury often found in high-end homes designed for landscaping or resort-style living.
Furthermore, homes with three-car garages and European classical styles have shown declining trends with decreases of 19.1% and 18.4% respectively. This indicates a preference for modern and practical spaces rather than elaborate or oversized design elements.
(Disclaimer: Epoch Times does not provide tax, investment, financial, legal, or any other professional advice. This article is for general informational purposes only.)