What Do Canadians Want in a Home in 2025? A New Survey Reveals Surprising Trends

Forget cutting-edge smart homes or ultra-modern interiors—what Canadians really want in 2025 is a great backyard.

A new Wahi 2025 What Homeseekers Want Survey, conducted with Angus Reid, reveals that 81% of Canadians say a backyard is “important” or “very important” when searching for a home.

But this is more than just a love for outdoor space—these preferences reflect deeper economic and demographic shifts. Rising home prices, changing family structures, and affordability challenges are reshaping what Canadians value in a home.

Why Homebuyer Preferences Are Changing

“These results don’t just tell us about what kind of homes Canadians prefer—they highlight broader demographic trends and affordability challenges,” says Wahi CEO Benjy Katchen.

This shift in housing preferences is being driven by:
✅ Affordability concerns due to rising home prices and mortgage rates
✅ Lifestyle changes, including multi-generational living and work-from-home trends
✅ Regional price differences, with buyers in expensive provinces prioritizing rental potential
✅ An increased demand for private outdoor spaces

Separate Entrances: A Growing Trend in Expensive Markets

One of the most notable trends is the increasing demand for homes with separate entrances, particularly in Canada’s most expensive provinces:

27% of buyers in British Columbia want homes with a separate entrance
20% of Ontario buyers also prioritize this feature

Why? Separate entrances allow for rental income, home offices, or multi-generational living, making homeownership more feasible in costly markets.

“Canadians in expensive housing markets are looking for homes with rental income potential to help offset ownership costs,” Katchen notes.

This trend shows how buyers are adapting to financial pressures by seeking homes with flexibility.

🔹 How does this trend affect Regina homebuyers? Read more at PeterFourlas.ca.

Single-Family Homes vs. Condos: What Buyers Want

When asked what type of home they would prefer today, the survey found:

🏡 61% prefer single-family homes
🏙️ 24% favor condos or apartments
🏠 The remaining buyers are exploring alternative housing options

But their priorities differ:

🏡 Single-Family Home Buyers: Space & Comfort

76% prioritize a backyard (the #1 must-have)
Renovated kitchens and bathrooms are key considerations
Finished basements, parking garages, and bungalow layouts rank high

🏙️ Condo Buyers: Amenities & Convenience

68% prioritize renovated kitchens and bathrooms
Parking garages and visitor parking are essential
High-end appliances and scenic views matter more than extra space

These preferences show that single-family buyers prioritize privacy and space, while condo seekers focus on location and convenience.

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The Biggest Homebuying Motivators in 2025

Beyond specific home features, the survey explored what influences Canadian homebuyers today.

The top reasons for choosing a home include:

1️⃣ Affordability – 40% cite high home prices and rental costs as a key factor
2️⃣ More outdoor space – Many prioritize yards, gardens, and balconies
3️⃣ Quiet neighborhoods – Noise levels are a growing concern for buyers
4️⃣ Multi-purpose spaces – Home offices and rental potential are key considerations

🔹 Stay up to date on Canada’s housing market—explore more insights at PeterFourlas.ca.

How Age, Lifestyle & Gender Shape Housing Preferences

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families Want Functional Spaces

51% prioritize mudrooms for storage and organization
47% value entertainment rooms for family activities

🎥 Men vs. Women: What Matters Most?

48% of men rank entertainment rooms as a top priority
Only 30% of women prioritize this feature

👵 Older Buyers Prefer One-Level Living

68% of baby boomers and 52% of Gen X buyers want a bungalow-style home
Only 28% of millennials and 13% of Gen Z share this preference

These insights show how age, lifestyle, and financial factors influence homebuying decisions.

🔹 Interested in buying or selling in Regina? Learn more at PeterFourlas.ca.

What This Means for the Future of Real Estate

✅ Buyers are prioritizing practicality over luxury
✅ Affordability remains the biggest challenge
✅ Flexibility (separate entrances, rental suites) is key in expensive markets
✅ Backyards and outdoor spaces are more desirable than ever

As homebuyer preferences evolve, understanding these trends is crucial for both buyers and sellers.