If you are looking for a new home, you might have a long list of amenities that you want in your dream house. Amenities are features that add value and comfort to a property, such as high-end appliances, marble countertops, or media rooms. But do you really need all these amenities to enjoy your home? Some real estate experts suggest that you can save money and widen your options by skipping some of these house amenities. Here are some examples of amenities that you can live without.

Media Rooms

A media room is a special room designed for watching movies or TV shows on a large screen with a surround sound system. It used to be a popular amenity for many homeowners who wanted a cinema-like experience at home. However, with the advancement of technology, you can now turn any room into a media room with wireless devices and streaming services. You don’t need to spend extra money on a pre-wired setup or a dedicated space for media entertainment.

Open Concept Floor Plans

An open concept floor plan is a layout that eliminates most of the walls between different living areas, such as the kitchen, dining room, and living room. It creates a spacious and airy feel in the home and allows for more natural light. However, an open concept floor plan also has some drawbacks. It can be hard to decorate and furnish different zones in an open space. It can also be noisy and messy when you have guests over. You might prefer a more traditional floor plan that offers more privacy and separation between rooms.

Marble Countertops

Marble countertops are often seen as a luxury amenity in the kitchen or bathroom. They have a beautiful and elegant appearance that can enhance any style of decor. However, marble countertops are also very expensive and high-maintenance. They are prone to staining, scratching, and chipping. They also require regular sealing and cleaning to prevent damage. You might want to consider other types of countertops that are more durable and affordable, such as quartz, granite, or laminate.

A Bathtub in Every Bathroom

Having a bathtub in every bathroom might seem like a nice amenity to have, especially if you enjoy soaking in a hot bath after a long day. However, bathtubs are not very practical or necessary for most people. They take up a lot of space and water, and they are not very accessible for people with mobility issues. They also require more cleaning and maintenance than showers. You might be better off having one bathtub in the master bathroom or none at all.

Obsolete Telephone Landlines

In the age of smartphones and internet-based communication, having a telephone landline in your home might seem like an outdated amenity. Landlines are not very useful or convenient for most people nowadays. They are also costly and unreliable compared to mobile phones or online services. You might want to ditch the landline and save yourself some money and hassle.

These are some of the house amenities that you can skip when buying a new home. By making some compromises, you can save money and find more options that suit your needs and preferences.

Other Amenities to Consider

While some house amenities are unnecessary or optional, there are some amenities that can add value and functionality to your home. Here are some examples of amenities that you might want to consider when buying a new home.

Energy-Efficient Features

Energy-efficient features are amenities that can help you save money and energy in the long run. They can also make your home more comfortable and eco-friendly. Some examples of energy-efficient features are solar panels, LED lighting, double-pane windows, insulation, and smart thermostats. These features can reduce your utility bills and carbon footprint, and they can also increase your home’s resale value.

Storage Space

Storage space is an amenity that can make a big difference in your home’s organization and appearance. Having enough storage space can help you keep your belongings neat and tidy, and avoid clutter and chaos. Some examples of storage space are walk-in closets, kitchen cabinets, pantries, attics, basements, and garages. You might want to look for a home that has ample storage space for your needs, or you might want to add some storage solutions yourself.

Outdoor Living Space

Outdoor living space is an amenity that can extend your home’s living area and enhance your lifestyle. Having an outdoor living space can allow you to enjoy nature, fresh air, and sunlight. It can also provide you with a place to relax, entertain, or exercise. Some examples of outdoor living space are decks, patios, porches, balconies, gardens, and pools. You might want to look for a home that has an outdoor living space that suits your preferences, or you might want to create one yourself.

These are some of the house amenities that you might want to consider when buying a new home. By choosing the right amenities for your home, you can improve your quality of life and satisfaction.