Selling your home in Downers Grove, Illinois? Find out what buyers want in 2025

People’s preferences, priorities, and expectations for buying a home are always shifting. Tracking these trends can give sellers a clearer picture of what buyers value the most at a given time. If you’re planning on selling real estate in Downers Grove, IL, knowing what buyers want will help you understand what repairs, renovations, and reupholstering you need to get done beforehand.

INSIDE THE BUYER MINDSET: HOME & NEIGHBORHOOD MUST-HAVES

Today’s homebuyers are thinking beyond square footage. They are looking for homes and neighborhoods that support their routines, reflect their values, and adapt to how they live now—and how they want to live in the future. Here’s a look at what continues to matter most in 2025.

Home features buyers are looking for

1. Flexible and multi-use spaces: Today’s buyers are thinking long term. They’re drawn to homes with rooms that can grow and evolve with them, whether that’s an office that turns into a guest suite, or a basement they can convert into a theater or home gym. Even minimal staging can make a big difference, helping people picture how each area could serve different purposes as life changes.
2. Smart home technology: From lighting to locks, smart features now play a central role in how a home is experienced. Integrated systems like app-controlled thermostats, security cameras, and smart doorbells aren’t just convenient— they reflect thoughtful upgrades that appeal to buyers seeking a modern, connected lifestyle.
3. Energy efficiency: High-efficiency homes are gaining traction not just for environmental reasons, but also for the long-term savings they offer. Energy Star appliances, upgraded insulation, and LED lighting are small details that signal care and foresight—qualities today’s buyers notice and value.
4. Entertainment spaces: Buyers are responding to homes that invite gathering. Whether it’s a sleek open-concept kitchen, an outdoor dining patio, or a finished basement with a bar and big screen, entertainment zones suggest possibilities—holidays, birthdays, and evenings spent with friends. These are the spaces that help a house feel like home.
5. Home libraries: A well-designed reading nook or full home library taps into a quiet aspiration: having a space dedicated to calm and reflection. Bookshelves, warm textures, and cozy seating areas create visual charm and emotional appeal—especially for buyers who value intentional living and a sense of escape.
6. Luxurious bathrooms: More than ever, bathrooms are expected to feel indulgent. Buyers are drawn to spa-like elements: oversized showers, soaking tubs, natural stone, and soft lighting. Layer in modern comforts like smart temperature controls and generous storage, and the space transforms into a daily retreat.

Neighborhood preferences and location trends

Location is one of the first key details homebuyers decide on, even if they’re only planning ahead. It shapes everything, from daily routines to long-term goals. Additionally, even future resale value can hinge on where somebody chooses to live. The following trends continue to shape buyer behavior in 2025:

• Suburban living is still the top choice: About 40.2% of buyers are seeking homes in the suburbs. This is great news for Downers Grove, IL real estate sellers as they can highlight the village’s suburban charm.
• Walkability is a growing priority: Buyers want to be near retail shops, restaurants, and everyday conveniences—places that make life easier and more enjoyable. A short commute or proximity to work is another key factor influencing purchase decisions. Downers Grove has a walk score of 74, meaning most errands can be accomplished on foot.
• Available amenities remain a key consideration: Parks, trails, and outdoor areas that support an active lifestyle add real appeal, especially for families and health-conscious buyers. This plays to the advantage of sellers in Downers Grove; the Downers Grove Park District boasts 600 acres of parks and facilities for people of all ages to enjoy.
• Access to good schools: Proximity to quality education remains one of the most consistent priorities for homebuyers—especially those planning for the long term. In Downers Grove, many homes are located near a strong mix of educational options, including respected private elementary schools and a well-regarded community high school.

THE EVOLVING HOME: WHAT’S IN—AND OUT—IN 2025 DESIGN

Buyers in 2025 are leaning more towards warmth and nostalgia as opposed to the impersonal all-white interiors of yesteryears.

Interior design trends evolve more slowly than fashion, but they do change. There may be furniture and fixtures in your home right now that are making it look dated. A quarter into the 21st century, designers have noticed a resurgence of Art Deco and the downfall of all-white minimalist interiors. Before we talk about what to add, let’s take a closer look at what to phase out.

What’s falling flat in 2025:

• All-white interiors: Once prized for their clean aesthetic, all-white rooms are now often seen as sterile and impersonal. Buyers want depth, richness, and warmth—not a space that feels like a showroom.
• Black and brass kitchens: They had their moment in the 2010s, but in 2025, luxury buyers are looking for kitchens that feel welcoming, soulful, and timeless—think soft, natural palettes and elevated earth tones over high-contrast drama.
• Over-curation: Perfectly matched, overly styled rooms feel rigid and lifeless. Today’s buyers crave authenticity and individuality. A room should breathe. It should tell a story, not recite one.
• Fluted tile: Previously a darling of minimalist bathrooms and backsplashes, fluted tile now feels overused and ornamental. Buyers are gravitating toward more subtle, tactile materials—less show, more soul.
• Space-age lighting fixtures: Those ultra-modern, metallic statement pieces are being swapped out for lighting that feels grounded, sculptural, and warm. Soft curves, mixed materials, and artisan-made designs are what buyers are looking for now.

What’s catching eyes now:

• Drapery with drama: Oversized, pleated, and patterned window treatments are no longer just functional; they’re statement pieces that add softness, movement, and a sense of grandeur to the room.
• The return of Art Deco: Buyers are loving Deco motifs in room layouts, upholstery, and architectural details. It signals glamour, sophistication, and timeless structure.
• Brown furniture: Once dismissed as outdated, English and American antiques are being reappreciated for their craftsmanship and heritage. Rich wood tones lend depth and a sense of history to otherwise modern interiors.
• Verdigris accents: That elegant blue-green patina you see on aged copper is turning up in lighting, hardware, and sculptural accessories. It adds colour without feeling loud.
• Velvet over bouclé: Velvet has officially dethroned bouclé. It’s richer, softer, and feels more indulgent—an upgrade that reads both modern and timeless.
• Jewel tones: Emerald, sapphire, bold yellow, and especially wine red are all over high-end interiors in 2025. Deep tones add mood and grounding—perfect for anchoring a space and creating a sense of comfort.
• Shambolism: Coined by Karen Spector of Love Unite, “shambolism” embraces controlled chaos: sensual layering, unexpected contrasts, and interiors that feel lived-in and alive—not overly polished.

If you want to sell your house fast in Downers Grove, thoughtful staging can make all the difference. Integrating just a few of this year’s most sought-after interior elements can create an emotional response—the kind of “this is the one” reaction that prompts serious offers. It’s less about decorating and more about setting a tone. The right fabric, tone, or layout can completely shift how a buyer experiences a space.

Of course, not every seller has the time or resources to manage full-scale updates. That’s where virtual staging comes in—a smart, flexible solution that allows you to tailor the look and feel of each room to match your ideal buyer’s style and expectations.

HOW SELLERS CAN MAXIMIZE THEIR HOME’S VALUE

Among all the Downers Grove, IL real estate properties for sale, it can be difficult to make your home stand out. If you’re wondering, “How do I sell my house fast in Downers Grove?” The answer often lies in thoughtful home upgrades that boost appeal and perceived value.

Whatever homebuyers want this year or the next, the good news is that you don’t need a full renovation to make an impact. Strategic updates—both big and small—can set your home apart, attract qualified buyers, and help you move through the selling process more quickly and confidently.

Below are some of the top home improvement tips to help your property rise to the top of the Downers Grove, IL, real estate market.

Boost your curb appeal

First impressions matter—and your home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see. Enhancing curb appeal is one of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to increase your home’s value and draw serious interest. It signals care, quality, and that the property is move-in ready.

• Refresh the façade and front door with a new coat of paint to make the home look clean, current, and well-maintained.
• Install updated outdoor lighting to improve safety and create a warm, inviting glow during evening showings.
• Replace old garage doors—especially those that dominate the home’s façade. A contemporary glass-paneled or rustic wood door can dramatically improve curb appeal and deliver a high ROI.

Strategic home updates, whether major or minor, can help increase the value of your property.

Future-proof your home

Future-proofing is about more than keeping up with trends; it’s about showcasing a home’s adaptability, accessibility, and long-term livability. These types of upgrades can make a quiet yet lasting impression on a broad range of buyers, including those thinking ahead for aging in place or multigenerational living.

• Consider widening doorways or ensuring there’s at least one ground-floor bathroom—thoughtful changes that improve flow and access without sacrificing design.
• Integrate entry ramps seamlessly as part of a cohesive exterior to add accessibility and style to the property.
• Upgrade lighting with layered, dimmable, energy-efficient fixtures to create ambiance, improve visibility, and add functional flexibility.

Make your home more energy-efficient

Sustainability and cost-saving features are no longer optional—they’re expected. Making energy-efficient upgrades not only lowers utility bills for future homeowners but also signals that your property has been well cared for and updated with longevity in mind.

• Replace old windows with double- or triple-pane models to improve insulation and comfort while enhancing the home’s overall look and feel.
• Upgrade to LED lighting and Energy Star-rated appliances to show immediate efficiency and reduced operational costs.
• Reinforce wall insulation to boost overall energy performance and enhance interior comfort.

Create the feeling of more space

Buyers respond to space—both real and perceived. While adding livable square footage through a finished basement, attic conversion, or enclosed sunroom can meaningfully boost a home’s value, there are also simpler ways to make your home feel more expansive without major construction.

• Maximize natural light by swapping out heavy drapery for sheer panels or wide-slat blinds that let sunlight filter in.
• Use large mirrors in strategic areas like living and dining rooms to reflect light and expand visual depth.
• Declutter, remove bulky or excess furniture, and open up sight lines to make even smaller rooms feel more spacious and airy.

HOW TO MARKET YOUR HOME EFFECTIVELY IN DOWNERS GROVE

Selling your home takes more than just listing it online and hoping for the best. To stand out in the Downers Grove, IL real estate market, your approach needs to be strategic, visually compelling, and tailored to today’s buyer expectations. The right presentation can create emotional connection, spark interest faster, and lead to stronger offers.

1. Speak with a professionalA professional can help you prioritize the most cost-effective upgrades that deliver the highest return. Even simple changes—like fresh paint or rearranging furniture—can dramatically improve your home’s presentation. If your budget allows, consulting an interior designer can elevate the overall look and feel of your space.

   A knowledgeable real estate agent can also provide valuable guidance, often offering similar staging insights while advising on how to stand out in Downers Grove, IL, real estate listings. Their expertise can make all the difference when you’re aiming to attract serious buyers and sell your house fast in Downers Grove.

2. Consider virtual stagingBefore a buyer steps through the door, they are already forming impressions based on what they see online. Virtual staging allows you to guide that narrative. With the help of high-quality renderings and design-forward styling, empty or outdated rooms can be transformed into inviting, aspirational spaces that resonate with today’s design-savvy buyers.

   Thoughtful choices in layout, lighting, and visual flow can spark a connection long before the first showing. And in 2025, when more buyers are beginning their search digitally, strong visual marketing isn’t optional—it’s essential.

More innovative marketing strategies

Beyond traditional listings, creative marketing can elevate your home’s visibility and attract the right buyers.

• Social media ads featuring professional visuals and geo-targeting can reach high-end audiences where they scroll.
• Interactive 3D tours provide convenience for remote or busy buyers, giving them an immersive feel for your home.
• Targeted email campaigns keep your listing top of mind for serious, pre-qualified prospects.
• Partnering with local influencers adds credibility and style-driven appeal that can spark real interest.

A real estate professional can give you an edge in selling your home in Downers Grove, IL.

BROWSE DOWNERS GROVE HOUSES WITH SHANON TULLY

No two properties are alike—and neither are the buyers who walk through the door. That’s why marketing and selling your home takes more than guesswork. It requires insight, strategy, and the kind of expert guidance only a trusted professional can provide. That’s where Shanon Tully comes in.

A Certified Staging Consultant and Seller Representation Specialist connected with Platinum Partners Realtors in Downers Grove, IL, Shanon brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to every listing. Her expertise in residential lots, paired with a deep commitment to personalized service, has earned her near-perfect results and glowing client reviews.

Ready to make your next move with confidence? Reach out to Shanon Tully today at 630.435.3585 or by leaving a message here.