Resale Value: Features that pay off in 10 years

Building a new home is one of the biggest investments most of us will ever make. While the excitement of choosing layouts, colours and finishes is part of the fun, smart homeowners are increasingly asking a more strategic question: What features will still add value in 10 years?

The housing market will always fluctuate, but certain design choices consistently stand the test of time helping your home stay desirable, comfortable, and financially rewarding in the long run.

Whether you’re planning a family home, a second dwelling, an Airbnb, or an investment property, here are the features that truly pay off over a decade.

Energy efficiency & low running costs

With power prices rising and sustainability expectations increasing, homes that are cheaper to run will always attract buyers. The features that hold long-term value include high-performance insulation, double or triple glazing, efficient heating/cooling systems, solar readiness or solar installed and good ventilation systems.
These aren’t just “nice to haves” – they actively reduce monthly costs and make your home more comfortable. Buyers in 2035 will prioritise healthy, warm, and efficient homes more than ever.

Flexible living spaces

If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that homes need to adapt. Multi-purpose spaces such as a bedroom that doubles as a home office, an open living/kitchen area that can be zoned, a second living nook or breakout space, a sleepout or self-contained unit are incredibly valuable. As lifestyles change, working from home, aging parents, growing families, rental income opportunities, homes with flexible layouts attract a wider range of buyers.

Strong indoor/outdoor Flow

In New Zealand, outdoor living is part of our lifestyle, seamless flow between inside and outside remains a top buyer priority. Features that endure include large sliding or stacker doors, covered outdoor areas, decks or patios and landscaping that feels intentional and usable. Even on smaller sections, well-designed outdoor living expands the sense of space and makes the home feel bigger.

Quality materials & low maintenance design

In 10 years, buyers will immediately notice what has aged well and what hasn’t. Choosing durable, easy-care materials such as long-lasting cladding, coloursteel roofing, composite or hardwood decking, quality flooring and aluminium joinery can significantly reduce maintenance costs and keep the home looking fresh.

Storage, parking & practicality

It may not be glamorous, but practicality sells. Features that consistently add value include off-street parking, accessible storage, built-in wardrobes, laundry space and functional kitchen storage. These elements make everyday living easier and buyers notice.

Separate income potential

One feature that is rapidly increasing in value is the ability to generate income. Whether through a self-contained granny flat, a studio/guest unit, Airbnb space or a secondary dwelling buyers see long-term financial benefit. With upcoming regulatory changes making small standalone dwellings easier to build in New Zealand, this trend will only strengthen.

Design choices made today can significantly influence your home’s value in the future. If you want your build to perform well over the next 10 years, prioritise energy efficiency, flexible layouts, indoor/outdoor living, durable materials, practical storage and parking and optional income potential. These features not only improve your lifestyle now, they also help ensure your home holds its value and appeals to future buyers.

If you’d like advice on design features that boost long-term resale potential, or you’re thinking about building a granny flat, Airbnb, or second home, we’d love to chat.

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