More Homeowners Factoring Holidays Into Home Buying: Survey

Published: Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 7:33 pm

Homebuyers Prioritizing Holiday Hosting in Real Estate Decisions

A recent survey from Realtor.com reveals a growing trend among American homebuyers: the importance of holiday hosting, particularly Thanksgiving, in their home search. The survey, conducted in mid-October, polled 1,000 adults aged 18 to 65 and found that over half of respondents considered the ability to host Thanksgiving when looking for their most recent home.

The survey highlights a generational divide. A significant 60% of Gen Z and Millennials reported that hosting Thanksgiving influenced their home selection, compared to 47% of Gen X and 30% of Baby Boomers. This suggests a shift in priorities as younger generations enter the housing market.

Key features driving these decisions include ample space for entertaining. Large family rooms and kitchens topped the list of desirable features, with 92% of respondents citing them as motivators. Large dining rooms (86%), guest bathrooms (87%), and outdoor spaces (76%) were also highly valued. While specific appliances like double ovens were considered desirable by some, overall space and layout were deemed more important.

The survey also explored preferences for guest accommodations. While Americans were split on whether a spare bedroom (44%) or an extra bathroom (45%) was more important, Gen Z favored extra bathrooms. Furthermore, the need for multiple bathrooms increased with household size, particularly for families of three or more.

Industry experts suggest that this trend could influence the real estate market. The report from Keller Home Loans indicates that the holiday season can offer advantages for buyers, including less competition and potential for flexible negotiations. Additionally, purchasing during this period can coincide with financial benefits such as year-end tax deductions.

BNN's Perspective:

This survey underscores the evolving needs and desires of homebuyers. While the focus on holiday hosting might seem specific, it reflects a broader trend of prioritizing lifestyle and social connection in homeownership. As younger generations continue to shape the market, we can expect to see further adaptations in home design and marketing strategies to meet these evolving demands.

Keywords: homebuying, Thanksgiving, real estate, survey, hosting, Gen Z, Millennials, family room, kitchen, dining room, guest bathroom, outdoor space, home features, holiday season, market trends, home design

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