If you’re on the hunt for a home this fall in the St. Croix Valley, you’re likely considering more than just the price tag or square footage. The properties that catch buyers' eyes now are those that feel right—not just in appearance, but in how they function on a daily basis.
This means looking at how the layout fits your lifestyle, the efficiency of the home’s systems, and how well it’s prepared for long-term comfort and stability. According to Zillow’s analysis of Fall 2025 listing data, buyers are increasingly focused on features that blend calm design with practical resilience. Search terms like “cozy,” “solar,” and “whole-house battery” are becoming more prevalent, indicating a shift in priorities for homebuyers in our area.
If you’re actively touring homes or getting ready to, here are some things to keep in mind as you explore each property, along with a few questions to consider before you schedule your next showing.
Before you tour, ask yourself:
- What matters most in your daily routine?
- Are there features that make life easier, not harder?
- How much work are you willing to take on after closing?
- Do you want something already efficient, or are you open to upgrading?
Layouts that feel calm and easy to live in
This season, many of the most sought-after listings showcase layouts that feel natural to navigate. Instead of vast, open spaces, buyers are leaning towards homes with clearly defined areas. Spaces like dens, built-in benches, and smaller living areas that offer privacy or a retreat are gaining traction.
Zillow notes that the term “cozy” appears in listings more frequently this year than in the past two. This trend is also reflected in design choices. Expect to see matte finishes, natural wood, stone accents, and earth-toned color palettes more often.
As you walk through a home, take note of how the layout feels. Can you envision unwinding here at the end of the day? Are there spots to retreat to, or does everything feel like one expansive room?
Older charm with updated systems
If you come across a home featuring original woodwork, vintage tile, or arched doorways, it’s worth taking a closer look behind the walls. Many of this fall’s most competitive listings combine classic features with modern plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or roofing systems.
The ideal scenario is a home that has character but functions as if it has already been through inspection. This includes essentials like working outlets and functional ductwork, as well as newer insulation and modern water heaters.
If you’re touring an older property, inquire about when the last major system updates were completed. Aesthetic charm can be a plus, but it’s easier to appreciate when it doesn’t come with a long list of repairs.
Energy efficiency and smart systems that actually work
Features that help lower monthly costs or enhance comfort are climbing higher on buyer wish lists. This includes smart thermostats, heat pump water heaters, zoned HVAC, and high-efficiency appliances.
Listings are also highlighting automated lighting, whole-home monitoring, or smart window treatments. If you’re checking out a home with these features, ask whether the systems are connected to a central hub or managed independently. Some setups are straightforward and beneficial, while others might require ongoing subscriptions or complex apps.
Focus less on the number of gadgets and more on how they enhance livability. Are the systems user-friendly? Have they been well-maintained? Are they compatible with what you already have?
Climate-resilient upgrades
Zillow has observed a noticeable increase in listings mentioning solar panels or whole-house battery storage. These features are particularly appealing in areas like the St. Croix Valley, where weather disruptions, power outages, or extreme temperatures are becoming more frequent.
You might also come across listings that highlight drainage improvements, rainwater collection systems, sump pumps, or drought-tolerant landscaping. These upgrades aren’t just about being eco-friendly; they also help minimize unexpected maintenance and ensure the home stands up better over time.
If you’re touring properties in regions prone to storms, heatwaves, or fire risks, ask whether the home includes any climate-adaptive features. They may not be flashy, but they can make a significant difference in the years ahead.
Bathrooms, storage, and daily ease
One area where trends and practicality are converging is in the bathroom. Spa-style layouts, especially wet rooms that combine the tub and shower into one open waterproof space, are becoming more common. These designs are easier to clean and more adaptable for various household needs.
Buyers are also paying attention to how laundry rooms, entryways, and kitchen storage are arranged. Look for layouts that minimize friction. This could mean clean drop zones near the door, natural light in work areas, or well-organized utility spaces that don’t feel like an afterthought.
During your tour, consider how your daily routine would flow in the space. Will you need to rearrange things just to function, or is it already set up to work for how you live?
What to watch out for
While some homes are standing out for the right reasons, others are showing signs of over-personalization or deferred maintenance. Highly specific paint choices, lawns that require constant upkeep, or appliances nearing the end of their life cycle are becoming easier for buyers to overlook.
Even some smart systems can turn into a drawback if they’re poorly integrated or come with hidden costs. If a home seems overloaded with automation but nothing is connected, or the seller can’t explain how it works, that may indicate more hassle than value.
Outdated wiring, patchy insulation, and older HVAC units are also top concerns. Many buyers are asking about energy bills upfront. If a listing can’t demonstrate how the home performs, it might not be worth pursuing further.
A practical lens for your home search
Buying a home this fall means looking beyond just a list of features. It’s about recognizing how a space will support you not just at closing, but in the seasons and years to come.
This might involve asking questions about energy performance, understanding the benefits of certain upgrades, or distinguishing between cosmetic staging and a home that is genuinely easy to live in.
We help buyers consider homes with both lifestyle and logistics in mind. This means identifying which elements are worth investing in and which ones could lead to challenges down the road. It also means keeping you focused on what matters most for your goals, not just what looks good in photos.
