Selling to a Millennial? Make a tech audit of your home

Baby boomers who are downsizing have a great opportunity to sell to Millennials who are upsizing. But the younger folks do want different things in their dream homes.

When you are selling your home, remember that your buyer will probably be a Millennial.

Here’s how to understand them.
According to zillow.com, Millennials (ages 20 to 34) will probably be looking for smaller, technological appointed properties. After all, these are people who grew up with a phone attached to their hand. According to the Center for Generational Kinetics, Millennials are tech dependent, not necessarily tech savvy. They are wired in at all times. They want casual simplicity, except when it comes to technology. Then, they want everything.

Consider how Millennials work.
They prefer flex time. They prefer to work from home. They expect to have unusual perks at work. Technology to them is the starting point, not an add-on.

At minimum, Millennials will prefer a home ready for wireless technology. Smart homes are natural to Millennials who expect to be able to control temperatures, lighting and even door locks with their cell phone.

Sellers considering upgrades before sale might well make a technology audit of their home. Wifi capabilities should be fast. Adding thermostat and lighting controls would be an inexpensive way to make a hit with the younger generation. Cable and satellite TV connections are probably required, but chances are Millennials won’t be using it. According to a survey by Digital Democracy, Millennials consume television on their computer, smartphone or gaming device. They are cord cutters.

A home office is essential since Millennials see themselves as working at home and dropping into an office occasionally. Of course, the home office must have enough plugs, ports and lighting to make a Millennial happy.

A gaming room is a great perk since most Millennials will need a place for their consoles and big screen monitors as they attack outer space creatures on their off time. These rooms don’t have to be big, but they shouldn’t have too many windows (bad for screen viewing). In marketing your property, be sure to note if one room would be ideal for gaming.

Millennials are also plenty busy. So they are looking for complete properties with no fix-up required, according to zillow.com. They will appreciate low-maintenance properties.

Finally, Millennials shop online for everything, including homes. Make sure your photos are fantastic.