Modern Farmhouse Homes Command Higher Prices, Zillow Report Reveals

A recent report from Zillow indicates that homes styled as 'modern farmhouse' are selling for a premium. This popular design trend, significantly influenced by Chip and Joanna Gaines, appears to be driving higher sale prices compared to market expectations. The trend shows no signs of fading soon, appealing to a broad range of buyers.

Key Takeaways

• 'Modern farmhouse' and 'rustic chic' are highly sought-after search terms by homebuyers.
• These styles contribute to a 10.3% increase in sale price, averaging an additional $25,000.
• The appeal lies in the style's livability and casual, rustic aesthetic.

The Enduring Appeal of Modern Farmhouse

Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of HGTV's "Fixer Upper," have undeniably left a significant mark on home design. Their influence has extended nationwide, with Zillow data showing that listings categorized as 'modern farmhouse' are fetching prices approximately 10.3% higher than anticipated. This translates to an average of $25,000 more per sale, a testament to the style's widespread popularity.

Why Buyers Love the Look

According to Zillow's findings, "modern farmhouse" and "rustic chic" have been leading buzzwords for home buyers since 2018, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. Amanda Pendleton, Zillow Lifestyle Expert, explained that the enduring appeal of the modern farmhouse trend stems from its inherent livability. "It has a more casual, rustic aesthetic that is meant to be lived in; nothing is precious and the more wear and patina, the better, which makes it so appealing to buyers with children or pets," Pendleton stated.

Beyond the Buzzwords: Quality Matters

While incorporating terms like "modern farmhouse" or "rustic chic" into a listing might seem like a quick way to boost a home's value, Zillow cautions against simply adding decorative elements. The report suggests that the higher sale premiums associated with these styles are more likely linked to the overall "general higher quality" of the homes that naturally incorporate these features. Simply adding a distressed watering can to a porch won't guarantee a higher price; it's the underlying quality and perceived niceness of the property that truly drives value.

Zillow advises homeowners to highlight existing desirable features rather than misrepresenting their homes. "If you’ve got these features in your home, don’t hide them from buyers! And if your home doesn’t have these features, don’t pretend it does," the report emphasizes.

Other In-Demand Features

Beyond the modern farmhouse aesthetic, Zillow also identified other features that buyers are willing to pay more for. These include:

• Waterfall countertops
• Moroccan tile
• Exposed brick
• Craftsman-style architecture

For those looking to understand the current market demands, Zillow offers a full report detailing how properties measure up against buyer preferences.

Sources

• Chip Joanna Gaines Modern Farmhouse Real Estate Prices, Apartment Therapy.