One Pandemic Renovation Buyers Don’t Want
Designers say homeowners who turned walk-in closets into offices may want to restore them before selling, as buyers now prize storage and livability.
NEW YORK — Homeowners who converted walk-in closets into home offices during the pandemic may want to reconsider those changes before listing in 2026, according to designers who say buyer priorities have shifted.
During COVID, "clo-ffices" offered privacy and functionality when homes suddenly had to double as workspaces, but many buyers today are placing renewed value on storage and flexible living space.
"A clo-ffice is no longer a desirable space, and storage is a nonnegotiable luxury," said Jennifer Homeyer, CEO and designer at The Design House. Buyers often view converted closets as a project they will factor into pricing negotiations.
Designers recommend restoring walk-in closets to their original purpose before selling, with modest upgrades such as LED lighting, a mirror, wallpaper or fresh paint, and custom or modular shelving to turn them into a selling feature. As the market settles, buyers are paying closer attention to fundamentals, including storage, bedroom functionality, and overall livability.
Source: Realtor (01/26) Baluch, Anna
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