10 Home Upgrades That Will Attract First-Time Homebuyers
The government response to the Coronavirus pandemic included containment measures such as curfews, quarantines, and lockdowns. This means that most people around the world spent days in their homes. Thus, homes have become everything for their owners, including a place for entertainment, gym, workplace, etc. While you may have enjoyed your home’s comfort, other homeowners have definitely added home upgrades to their bucket lists because of the discomfort and need for more space.
Although the pandemic has delayed the home buying season, the demand for new homes remains intact. And when the buying season begins, homeowners will be looking out for the following home upgrades ideas.
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Large and modern baths
In the past, bathtubs and Jacuzzis were the major selling points for most homes. While they are still essential for most homes, most first-time homebuyers prefer large and modern showers. Functional and well-designed bathrooms with multiple bodies and head sprayers are becoming more attractive.
Therefore, for home upgrades bathrooms, you can consider removing the old-fashioned tubs and expanding your showers. You can incorporate glass enclosure and modern tiles that can be cleaned easily with the best shower cleaner.
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Energy efficiency
The cost of energy is a burden to most homeowners. Thus, first-time homebuyers will definitely look out for ways of saving on energy. As a home seller, you need an energy-efficient upgrade on your property to attract buyers. One option is to include energy-efficient appliances that do not consume a lot of power. Additionally, you can install solar panels on the rooftop to power appliances such as water heaters and washing machines and light up the security lights at night.
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Low maintenance cost
First-time homebuyers will have spent a lot of money purchasing the property and may not appreciate spending some more on maintaining the home. Some buyers are struggling to pay their mortgage and may not have so much money. Thus, most buyers prefer homes with little to maintenance costs, such as the “move-in ready” houses.
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Personalized workspace
There is one lesson employees and employers have learned from this pandemic; it is the possibility of working from home. Some people, including business owners, freelancers, and young professionals, will continue to work from home. Remote work opportunities are also on the rise. Therefore, first-time homebuyers are eager to find personalized workspaces. Creating a home office is one of the DIY home upgrades that you may consider when you move into a new home.
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More space
Even before the pandemic kicked in, first-time homebuyers were already obsessed with more space. The lockdown and quarantine have just added to the demand for spacious homes. As a home seller, you need to provide areas where homeowners and their friends can gather for social activities such as watching games or playing video games. A patio is an upgrade that you may think of if you want to create more space.
Alternatively, you can transform one of the rooms into a meeting and entertainment place within the home.
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Walk-in pantry
First-time homebuyers want more extra space everywhere. Apart from the laundry room, they also need walk-in pantries to store their extra home stuff like food, dishes, linen, etc. The pantry is only complete for most people if it has shelves or cabinets to arrange these extras neatly.
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Smart home features
Most first-time home buyers today are millennials who are tech-savvy. They want to explore the world in the comfort of their homes. As a home seller, these millennials expect you to meet their demand for technology. Thus, they place a priority on home gadget upgrades and smart features such as internet connectivity and cell phone services.
Homes with automation options allow homeowners to control the sound system, security system, and thermostat. Homebuyers are also on the lookout for a property with USB power outlets.
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LED lighting
If you are selling your home, you shouldn’t ignore your home interior upgrades. Lighting is some of the ways to add functionality and curb appeal to the home. A properly lit home is welcoming and attractive to homebuyers. People will frown at homes with poor lighting. As part of home upgrades, you can replace the old-fashioned bulbs with LED lights and highlight some of the features with accent lighting.
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Laundry room
According to a recent statistic, 91% of new home buyers prefer homes with laundry rooms because of the convenience. Having a room for ironing clothes helps keep the living space tidy and organized. Thus, having laundry in the home will be an advantage for homebuyers who don’t like the idea of a public laundry.
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Neutral colors
If you plan to paint your home before selling it, it would be safe if you chose neutral colors. Avoid those “shouting” or bright colors that will put off potential first-time home buyers. You can use soft-grays, beige, warm tans, or anything flashy when repainting.
Conclusion
As a home seller, you need to answer the question; what home upgrades do first-time homebuyers want? This question will help you understand your customers’ needs and offer them a property that will meet their demands. Remember, buyers are willing to pay for the features they desire.
Are you a first-time homebuyer? Which of the above home upgrades will you go for?
Author’s Bio:
Kevin is a content writer for about 3 years. He studied Design and Arts at College in Pennsylvania. A fan of home interior design and, he has taken it upon himself to spread his love for decorating homes by informing people on some of his ideas through his articles.
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August 2025 GTA Real Estate Market Update | Regan Irish
The August 2025 GTA Real Estate Market Update reflects renewed momentum and affordability in Toronto, Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington, and Muskoka. Thanks to steady interest rates and appealing home prices, July proved surprisingly dynamic. Let’s dig into the numbers and what they mean for you.
Interest Rates Remain Stable — Affordability Fueling Activity
In July 2025, the Bank of Canada maintained its key rate at 2.75%, its third consecutive pause. With lower borrowing costs now more accessible, affordability is encouraging a wave of renewed buyer activity.
GTA Market Overview: Sales Surge, Prices Slightly Dip
- Home Sales: 6,100+ transactions region-wide, marking a 10.9% increase YoY and the strongest July since 2021.
- Month-over-Month: Seasonally adjusted sales rose 13% from June to approximately 5,744 units, the biggest monthly gain in nine months.
- New Listings: Up 5.7% YoY, totaling 17,613 new offers.
- Price Trends:
- The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Composite Benchmark fell 5.4% YoY.
- The average GTA selling price dropped 5.5% YoY to around $1,051,719.
- Word on the street indicates the HPI drifted slightly lower—about $979,000, down 0.2% from June.
What It Adds Up To: Buyers are back in force—sales are outpacing new listings while prices softened, creating renewed market opportunities.
City Highlights
Toronto
A more balanced landscape—but some segments remain soft. Condos and detached homes see inventory rising; semis are steadier.
Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington & Muskoka
While TRREB doesn’t break down by city in these reports, regional trends suggest:
- Mississauga & Burlington: Strong rise in listings and dipping average prices give buyers leverage.
- Oakville: Stability in demand for luxury keeps discounts modest.
- Muskoka: Continued strong interest in sub-$2M waterfront properties should benefit from broader GTA momentum.
What This Means for You
- For Buyers:
Renewed affordability, rising inventory, and favorable interest rates make August a prime time to move. - For Sellers:
A more balanced market—strategic pricing and quick response will be key to success. - For Investors & Cottage Buyers:
Strong July sales in the GTA point to increasing investor interest; Muskoka remains a high-value lifestyle and investment destination.
Work With the GTA Real Estate Experts
Whether you’re planning to buy a Muskoka cottage, invest in a luxurious Oakville property, or explore options across Toronto, Mississauga, or Burlington, now is the time to act.
Regan Irish & Associates specializes in luxury, resale, and investment properties across the GTA and Muskoka. Our market insight and negotiation skills help you get the best results—whether buying, selling, or investing.
1320 Cornwall Rd Unit 103, Oakville, ON L6J 7W5
905.842.7677
Visit reganirish.com
Let’s make today’s market your opportunity—contact us today!
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Alex Irish & Associates and The Regan Team Announce Strategic Merger
Two of the most respected names in real estate, Alex Irish & Associates and The Regan Team, are excited to announce a strategic merger that will combine their expertise, resources, and market reach. This partnership of Regan Irish & Associates brings together the strengths of both firms, offering an enhanced real estate experience for clients across Southern Ontario, including expanding into new regions like Collingwood and Muskoka. The merger reflects both brokerages’ long-standing commitment to providing high-quality, relationship-focused service while leveraging new technologies and business strategies to ensure their clients receive unparalleled support.
“Alex is the consummate professional,” said Matthew Regan, CEO of The Regan Team. “She embodies the qualities of a person I would trust with my own home sale, and I am excited to partner with her to combine the best of both our brokerages. Our goal is to create a work culture that allows our agents to thrive, while being confident and equipped to provide the service our clients deserve. Our clients are going to benefit immensely with a wider and deeper net of potential buyers and an even further reach in marketing and advertising.”
Alex Irish, Founder of Alex Irish & Associates, emphasized that this partnership is the next natural step for her business. “By combining our resources and efforts we knew we’d be able to create a better real estate experience for our clients, our agents and business partners.” she explained. “This merger allows me to focus more on client relationships while also mentoring our agents who can continue to offer that same high level of service. Matthew has built a business model that aligns with my long-term vision, allowing us to scale while still maintaining the personal touch. Simply put, we are better together.”
Alex has built her brand over decades, particularly in the Oakville area, where her name is synonymous with excellence in real estate. Her personal approach, based on referrals and repeat business, has earned her a loyal clientele. Matthew has focused on recruiting top agents and scaling his business, growing The Regan Team to one of the top brokerages in Canada. This merger offers an exciting opportunity to grow into new territories. Together, the merged brokerage will have 15 offices spanning from Niagara to Toronto to Muskoka. This expanded presence means more resources for clients, from enhanced marketing capabilities to a wider net of potential buyers.
The merger will officially take effect on October 31, 2024, and the new branding and operations will be rolled out in the coming months.
About Alex Irish & Associates
Alex Irish & Associates, led by Alex Irish, is a highly respected name in Oakville, known for its personalized, referral-based business model and long-standing relationships with clients. Alex has built her brand on trust, excellence, and attention to detail, qualities that will remain at the forefront of the merged firm.
About The Regan Team
The Regan Team has a long-standing reputation for innovation, process-driven operations, and a focus on agent recruitment and development to provide the highest level of service for their clients. Under Matthew’s leadership, the brokerage has expanded its presence across Ontario, providing agents with the tools and support needed to succeed in a competitive market. For more information on this exciting merger, please contact Matthew Regan.