Every family is unique and will want different things from a home. But it’s safe to say that some desires are universal — good flow, functionality and the opportunity to connect as a family.

According to the 2016 census, two thirds of Australian households change homes at least once every 5 years. So, even if you think that you’re in your forever home for now, features listed below will improve your chance of getting top dollar when selling, after all who knows what the future holds.

1. Adequate Storage

Storage is so important in a family home, insufficient storage can mean clutter, chaos and disorganization as you navigate toys, school bags and books, sporting equipment and everything else that comes along with family living.

Smart storage can be as simple as having some beautiful oversize baskets in the corner of your living spaces and kids’ rooms that allow for a quick scoop-up of toys throughout the day. Or it could be a storage bench and wall hooks in your entrance or mudroom for shoes, coats, school bags and umbrellas.

2. Heated Towel Racks

One tip that we can’t go past is to put heated towel rails in your bathrooms — They are a bit more of an outlay initially than non-heated styles, but they offer so many benefits, particularly for family living.

The most appealing factor is less work: less washing, less drying. Your towels are warm and fresh when it comes time to use them, as is your bath mat.

This is a lifesaver and such a luxury, particularly when you have kids and feel like you’re constantly washing everything.

3. A Plan for the Future

Keep in mind that children grow into full-size adults, when planning a renovation or new build with small children, consider how spaces will be used in years to come.

Homes with low ceilings, small rooms suited to single beds and minimal storage always become a problem when the kids outgrow the single bed and there is no room to squeeze in a queen bed, or that sweet desk that’s perfect for studying.

4. Walk-In Pantry

With more of us having open-plan living areas, the kitchen is front and centre. A walk-in pantry helps keep the main kitchen tidy — you can store all your small appliances here and do food preparation when you’re entertaining.

Drawers to store food items are key. They keep everything neatly stored away and items are easy to access, particularly when you’re in a rush.

A walk-in pantry isn’t just about food storage these days. It’s a space to make drinks, snacks and prepare dishes when we’re entertaining.

5. Lighting

Light affects everything from the aesthetic, mood and functionality of a home to indoor temperature.

Just like the weather affects our mood, so does the amount and quality of light we receive in our living spaces. During the day, natural light can transform a room, depending on the orientation and window size.

Likewise, a colder light can make you feel less cosy or even gloomy. It isn’t always an option to have favourable orientation, so the best way to remedy gloomy spaces is to have considered light sources, whether that is general ambient light, task lighting or mood lighting.

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6. Multifunctional Spaces

Zoned rooms and spaces that can be used for different purposes are an essential in a family home, providing opportunities for both togetherness and privacy.

Ideally, you want a mix of communal spaces, where the family can come together and connect, and separate spaces or rooms away from the main family hub, where individuals can retreat for privacy or to pursue their own activities, such as reading, relaxing or music practice.

Multifunctional spaces — or ones that can be used for different purposes — are a boon in a family home. For example, having a second living area where the adults can retreat to in the evenings that can also be used as a quiet place to read, play or knit during the day.

Or a teenager’s retreat where your child can hang out with their friends and play games, which can be shut off at other times and used as a quiet space for study.

The key with multifunctional rooms is that they can be closed off to create a true sense of privacy and quiet away from the busy or noisy parts of the home.

By including these features, your family home of today could be very attractive family home for future buyers.

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This article via Houzz does not constitute advice; readers should seek independent and personalised counsel from an appropriate trusted adviser that specialises in property, a tax accountant and property or interior design specialist.