Real Estate Reimagined: The Impact of Wellness on Property Trends
By Carissa Kristoff
Realtor, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties
The way we think about real estate is changing. Homebuyers today are no longer just looking for square footage, high-end finishes, or prime locations. Increasingly, they are prioritizing wellness-focused properties—homes that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This shift isn’t just a trend; it’s a fundamental reimagining of how we define a home’s value.
Wellness-driven real estate isn’t limited to luxury markets. It’s influencing everything from home design and smart technology to outdoor spaces and sustainable materials. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply upgrade your living environment, understanding the role of wellness in property trends is essential.
The Rise of Wellness-Centric Living Spaces
The connection between our environment and our well-being has never been more apparent. With more people spending time at home—whether for work, family life, or relaxation—creating a space that fosters health, balance, and peace has become a top priority.
Several factors are driving this transformation:
- Increased Focus on Mental Health: Homebuyers are looking for spaces that reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance overall wellness.
- Remote Work Trends: With more professionals working from home, the need for natural light, dedicated workspaces, and ergonomic designs has grown.
- Sustainability and Health Awareness: Buyers are prioritizing eco-friendly, toxin-free materials that contribute to better indoor air quality.
- Holistic Lifestyle Shifts: People are embracing mindful living, and they want homes that reflect and support their values.
Key Features of Wellness-Focused Properties
So what makes a home “wellness-friendly”? Here are the top real estate trends shaping the future of wellness in homes:
1. Natural Light and Air Quality
Access to natural light has been linked to better mood, increased productivity, and improved sleep patterns. Meanwhile, poor indoor air quality can contribute to respiratory issues and fatigue.
What Buyers Want:
- Large windows and skylights for optimal daylight exposure.
- HEPA air filtration systems and high-quality HVAC solutions.
- Indoor plants and green walls that naturally purify the air.
2. Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature Indoors
The concept of biophilic design—integrating nature into the home—is becoming a major selling point. It fosters relaxation and enhances the connection to the natural world.
What Buyers Want:
- Indoor gardens and water features.
- Natural materials like wood, stone, and bamboo.
- Living walls or large indoor plants.
3. Smart Home Technology for Well-Being
Technology isn’t just about convenience anymore—it’s about enhancing health and wellness. Smart home systems can now optimize lighting, air quality, and even circadian-friendly temperature controls.
What Buyers Want:
- Smart lighting that mimics natural daylight.
- Voice-activated climate and air purification controls.
- Noise-reduction technology for improved sleep and relaxation.
4. Dedicated Wellness Spaces
Buyers are looking for homes that support healthy routines—whether that’s fitness, meditation, or relaxation.
What Buyers Want:
- Home gyms or yoga studios with ample space and ventilation.
- Meditation rooms with soundproofing and calming decor.
- Spa-like bathrooms with steam showers and deep soaking tubs.
5. Outdoor Retreats and Green Spaces
More than ever, buyers value outdoor spaces where they can unwind, entertain, or connect with nature.
What Buyers Want:
- Private gardens, patios, or balconies for fresh air.
- Outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas.
- Sustainable landscaping with native plants and minimal maintenance.
6. Sustainable and Non-Toxic Materials
Health-conscious buyers are seeking eco-friendly homes that reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and minimize their carbon footprint.
What Buyers Want:
- VOC-free paints and finishes to improve indoor air quality.
- Recycled and renewable materials like cork, reclaimed wood, and recycled glass.
- Energy-efficient appliances and solar power systems.
The Wellness Factor in Home Sales
For sellers, positioning a home as wellness-focused can be a major differentiator in the market. Highlighting features that enhance health and well-being makes a property more attractive to today’s mindful buyers.
How to Make Your Home More Marketable:
- Stage with wellness in mind—use natural light, greenery, and calming decor.
- Upgrade key areas like air filtration, lighting, and smart home systems.
- Emphasize quiet spaces, work-from-home functionality, and relaxation zones
Wellness in Real Estate: A Lasting Trend
Wellness-focused real estate isn’t just a passing phase—it’s a fundamental shift in how people choose where and how they live. As a real estate professional, I’ve seen firsthand how homes that support well-being resonate more deeply with buyers. Whether you’re investing, selling, or searching for your perfect home, understanding this movement will help you make smarter decisions.
The future of real estate isn’t just about location—it’s about how a space makes you feel. And that, ultimately, is what transforms a house into a home.
About Carissa Kristoff
With 19 years in residential real estate, Carissa Kristoff has built a reputation for providing clarity and confidence throughout every stage of buying, selling, or leasing a home. As part of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties team, she collaborates with seasoned brokers, agents, and administrators to secure optimal outcomes for her clients. Carissa’s work ethic is matched by her commitment to enjoying life: she’s an avid sailor, snow skier, and certified yoga instructor. She also brings a hands-on approach to homeownership, thanks to her background running a residential cleaning and management company, where she honed her DIY skills in gardening, painting, and decorating. Whether guiding a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, Carissa leverages her well-rounded experience to simplify the process and deliver top results.
