What amenities first-time homebuyers want most

First-time homebuyers are most eager for living rooms in their future property.

According to the National Association of Home Builders, 61 percent of first-time homebuyers consider a living room an essential part of their home. Beyond a living room, they are looking for a laundry room and a dining room, followed by garage storage and a walk-in closet in the master bedroom. Ideally, they’d also prefer both a shower stall and tub in the master bath, a front porch, two-car garage and a double-sink in the kitchen for 40 percent.

On the other hand, second-time homebuyers are more apt to want a laundry room over anything else, according to 72 percent. Next on their list was a living room, followed by a walk-in closet in the master bedroom and a two-car garage. Garage storage was also a feature many wanted, as well as a double sink in the kitchen. A dining room and patio are on the want list for many second-time buyers as well.

Rounding out the top 10 for must-have features for second-time buyers are table space for eating in the kitchen, and a tub and shower stall in the master bath. In their new property, second-time homebuyers also want hardwood flooring, Energy-Star appliances and granite countertops.

While garages weren’t a top priority for either first-time or second-time buyers, both still wanted garage space, along with a garage. Earlier this year, Remodeling Magazine found that an upscale garage replacement has a 98.3 percent cost recouped, with the average job costing $3,470, with a resell value of $3,411. Perhaps a garage replacement is truly the best remodeling project for sellers.