Home features that buyers really care about

That fancy sauna that was installed last year may have been fun for a while, but potential buyers might not feel the same way.

Homeowners all across the country design and upgrade their homes exactly how they want - as they should. However, certain changes might not attract buyers, and not everyone has the same love for a quirky kitchen or unique bathroom.

Therefore, sellers may want to be smart about their properties before they are listed on the market. A number of upgrades really are worth the investment, while others might be a waste of time and money. Prior to selling, a home inspection can be a valuable tool in order to figure out where any problems exist, and what can be done to get the house in top shape.

Projects buyers want to see

Homebuyers are faced with a tough task. They have hundreds of items on their checklists, from prices and mortgages to neighborhood and home style. Due to this, sellers should think from their perspectives before making any drastic changes to their houses.

In fact, some buyers might even be willing to pay more for certain upgrades, according to 24/7 Wall St. For example, buyers love to see a great kitchen with stainless steel appliances.

"People, in general, have shown more interest in having big and beautiful kitchens, and the kitchen is acting as an informal gathering place," Errol Samuelson, president of Realtor.com, told the news source. "We have gone from the '70s where it was about Hamburger Helper ... and now we've got the Food Network where people are more interested in exploring cooking."

In addition to attractive appliances, buyers also want to see an eat-in kitchen, 24/7 Wall St. noted. These preferences tend to change depending on age, as well. Younger buyers want the kitchen to have a view of the living room, and larger families want spaces that have multiple purposes.

Hardwood floors are another ideal home feature, with buyers willing to pay a couple thousand extra dollars for them, the news source reported. However, older buyers may feel more comfortable with carpeting, since those floors feel slightly warmer. Younger people with children tend to prefer the wooden variety, though.

A property inspection professional can help sellers with the process. A detailed report can identify problem areas that need work, or put potential buyers minds at ease about the condition of the house.

Home upgrades worth skipping

Even if a home inspection found a number of issues, not all upgrades are worth the money. Sellers should be smart about what changes they do make, so buyers aren't turned away at the door.

For instance, Yahoo Homes explained that unconventional appliances or features are big buyer turn-offs. While current residents may love the idea of a hot tub or custom closets, these changes narrow the buyer pool drastically.

"You are not going to get very much extra money for your wine cellar if the prospective buyer is looking at it as a great thing to tear out and replace with a home theater," Jeff Moeslein, president of Pennsylvania-based Legacy Remodeling, Inc., told the news source.

However, that doesn't mean homeowners can't enjoy their properties how they want. It should just be understood that they probably won't make that money back when it comes time to sell.

Room additions might also not be worth the time and money, according to Yahoo Homes. These projects are extremely costly, and take quite a long time to complete. On the contrary, homeowners should consider a roof replacement, which can go a long way to preserving the quality of the home.

Either way, a property inspection is a must before selling. A professional can point out where attention is needed, or help reassure buyers that everything is in perfect, working order.