Top Desires of Affluent Homebuyers

Essentially, the affluent display some preferences similar to everyone else.

According to Sotheby’s International Realty, those purchasing high-end real estate are eager to find locations where their wealth can achieve more, even if it means relocating internationally. They prefer homes that are immediately livable, enhanced with wellness-focused amenities, famous brand partnerships, and eco-friendly features.

In the annual luxury real estate analysis, Philip White, the CEO of Sotheby's International Realty, observes, "Emerging wealth holders are focusing on personal lifestyle aspirations, often placing their values and interests at the forefront when deciding on a home." Here are the chief priorities for affluent homebuyers in the year 2025.

1. Move-in Ready Homes Equipped for Healthy Living

Younger luxury buyers are increasingly interested in properties that require no additional work and are immediately ready to inhabit.

Daniel Heider, a real estate expert with TTR Sotheby's in Washington, DC, notes, "They prefer to avoid renovations and want properties complete with landscaping and are prepared to pay for this convenience."

These buyers anticipate amenities like "fitness centers, cold immersion pools, steam baths, pickleball facilities, and saunas," Heider explains.

Increasingly, American homeowners are opting for designs that promote mental and physical health, influencing trends in regions such as Napa Valley, remarks Hillary Ryan, a global real estate adviser in California.

In the highest luxury tiers, homes are expected to include gyms, gardens that support dining from the land, spa-like bathrooms, tennis courts, and serene spaces like Zen gardens, furthering the influence of the wellness movement.

2. Homes Connected to Trendy Brands

Designer attachments have moved beyond fashion and cars—now incorporating homes.

While these were once linked mainly with luxury hotels, branded residences in Miami are seeing a surge in appeal.

Luxury car manufacturers like Bentley, Porsche, and Pagani are expanding into real estate by introducing condominium complexes that mirror their brand ethos.

The Pagani Residences, for instance, feature homes ranging from 2,000 square feet, with options priced similarly to luxury cars, fully furnished with bespoke Italian kitchens, and expansive terraces.

Culinary and fashion brands are also entering the market with such collaborations. The Carbone restaurant and Dolce & Gabbana have notable real estate initiatives underway in Miami.

3. Sustainable Homes Command Higher Prestige

Many high-end homebuyers are starting to prioritize residences with eco-friendly characteristics due to both higher property values and cost efficiency.

Hybrid homes incorporating classic and modern elements with green technologies like living roofs are resonating well with buyers, especially in places like Hawaii, reports Ryan MacLaughlin from Sotheby’s.

Clients prefer these features upfront, reducing future costs and ensuring energy efficiency. This shift was notably hastened by the pandemic, as many opted for renovations at the time but now prefer built-in sustainable options.

4. Maximizing Lifestyle Value with Location

Regions like the Midwest are attracting luxury buyers chiefly due to more reasonable prices, coupled with excellent job possibilities.

Paul Handle from Mahler Sotheby's in Milwaukee, highlights a renaissance period for the local luxury realty market because of the region’s distinct offerings at a fraction of coastal city pricing.

Milwaukee’s median house price starkly contrasts New York City, showcasing an affordable alternative for expansive and architecturally unique properties.

Additionally, affluent young individuals in pursuit of lifestyles aligned with the values depicted in familiar cultural references are venturing abroad, particularly to European locales like Italy for better purchasing power and quality of living.