The Amenities Defining Luxury Living Now, According to BHS Agents

To better understand what today’s luxury buyers truly value, Brown Harris Stevens surveyed agents across our markets, asking them to identify the top amenities shaping demand right now. The updated results reinforce a clear shift toward homes that offer immediacy, light, and livability—where elevated design meets everyday ease.

Turnkey / Move-In Ready Living

Leading the list by a wide margin, turnkey living reflects a decisive shift in buyer mindset. Today’s luxury client is prioritizing immediacy—homes that are finished, refined, and ready to be lived in from day one. The desire for renovations has notably softened, replaced by a preference for seamless transitions.

Abundant Natural Light

Natural light remains a defining element of modern luxury. Buyers continue to gravitate toward bright, sun-filled interiors that enhance both mood and spatial perception. It’s no longer a bonus—it’s an expectation.

Chef’s Kitchen (Professional-Grade)

The kitchen has firmly cemented its role as the heart of the home. Professional-grade appliances, thoughtful layouts, and elevated finishes signal both functionality and lifestyle. For many buyers, this is where daily living and entertaining converge.

High Ceilings / Volume

Volume continues to carry significant weight, with high ceilings creating an immediate sense of scale and openness. These architectural elements elevate even the simplest spaces, offering a feeling of airiness that defines luxury. It’s as much about perception as it is about square footage.

Private Outdoor Space

Access to private outdoor space remains a cornerstone of demand. Whether in the form of terraces, gardens, or balconies, buyers are placing sustained value on personal outdoor environments. The ability to step outside—without leaving home—has become essential.

Custom Walk-In Closets

Storage, when executed thoughtfully, becomes a luxury in itself. Custom walk-in closets are increasingly viewed as both functional and experiential spaces. They reflect a broader desire for organization, personalization, and ease within the home.

Full-Service Building Amenities

In urban markets especially, full-service living continues to resonate. Buyers are drawn to buildings that offer convenience, security, and hospitality-level amenities. The extension of service beyond the apartment itself enhances the overall living experience.

Water Views / Premium Vistas

Views remain a powerful differentiator. Whether overlooking water, skyline, or open landscape, a compelling vista adds both emotional and tangible value. It’s an amenity that elevates a property instantly.

Spa-Style Primary Bathroom

Wellness continues to influence buyer priorities, with spa-like primary bathrooms ranking prominently. Features such as soaking tubs, steam showers, and serene finishes create a retreat within the home. The emphasis is on restoration and daily escape.

Pool

The presence of a pool—whether private or within a building—signals a lifestyle upgrade. It represents leisure, wellness, and an added layer of exclusivity. While not universal, it remains a strong draw across many of our markets.

Taken together, these updated insights point to a more refined definition of luxury—one centered less on extravagance and more on how a home supports daily life. Today’s buyers are seeking environments that are intuitive, comfortable, and immediately livable, with an emphasis on quality over quantity. For Brown Harris Stevens, this data not only captures the current moment, but also informs how we position properties, guide clients, and define the next chapter of luxury real estate.