Cozy, Smart & Climate-Ready: What Buyers Want in Fall 2025 (and What to Watch For)

If you are searching for a home this fall, you are likely thinking about more than just price or square footage. The homes that stand out now are the ones that feel right, not only in how they look, but in how they function day to day.

That includes how the layout supports your routine, how efficient the systems are, and how prepared the home is for long-term comfort and stability. According to Zillow’s analysis of Fall 2025 listing data, buyers are paying more attention to features that combine calm design with practical resilience. Search terms like “cozy,” “solar,” and “whole-house battery” are becoming more common, pointing to a shift in what buyers are prioritizing during their search.

If you are actively touring homes or preparing to, here are some things to notice as you move through each space, and a few questions worth asking before you schedule your next showing.

‍