Homebuyers in Connecticut seek more space, scenic views

Twilight sets in over snow-covered Stewart Street on Federal Hill. | Laura Bailey

By Laura Bailey

Connecticut homebuyers are embracing a mix of practicality and charm in their home searches this year, with a preference for spacious properties that blend comfort with character. According to Zillow’s newly enhanced natural language search feature, which allows home shoppers to search using everyday language instead of preset filters, buyers are prioritizing features that offer both convenience and uniqueness.

The update has provided valuable insights into what Americans are seeking in their homes in 2025. The ability to search for homes based on more personal criteria—such as commute times, affordability, and proximity to good schools or recreational areas has allowed Connecticut buyers to refine their home searches in ways that align with their lifestyles and needs.

Most-Searched Home Features in Connecticut

When it comes to Connecticut, many of the top search trends echo those seen across the nation, with homebuyers gravitating toward homes that offer flexibility and ample space. According to Zillow, the most commonly searched-for attributes this year include:

  1. Ranch Homes – With their single-story convenience and classic appeal, ranch homes continue to dominate the search trends. This is especially true for homebuyers in Connecticut, where ease of movement and lower maintenance are top priorities.
  2. Lakefront Properties – Given Connecticut’s picturesque lakes and rivers, lakefront homes are highly desirable. Whether buyers are seeking a serene getaway or a family-friendly setting, proximity to water is a sought-after feature.
  3. Duplexes and Multi-family Homes – As flexible living spaces rise in popularity, duplexes and multi-family homes are becoming more common search terms. Many Connecticut buyers are looking for properties that can accommodate extended families or generate rental income.
  4. Cabins and Retreats – With many people continuing to seek respite from city life, there is growing interest in more secluded, tranquil homes, including cabins and small rural properties.
  5. Farms and Acreage – As more people embrace a rural lifestyle, especially in Connecticut’s countryside, interest in farms, homesteads, and properties with large plots of land has increased.
  6. Garages and Patios – Practical features like garages and patios remain in high demand, especially in colder regions like Connecticut where residents need a place to park during winter months or enjoy outdoor living spaces when the weather warms up.

While these trends reflect the overall preferences of Connecticut homebuyers, they also underscore a desire for homes that offer both practicality and personal style. For many, the dream home isn’t just about location or square footage but about finding a property that matches their lifestyle.

Top Home-Search Trends Nationwide: What Connecticut Shares with Other States

Zillow’s data also highlights the broader regional and national preferences shaping home searches. In states with warmer climates, such as California and Florida, features like pools are in high demand. However, in colder, more rural states like Connecticut, “garage” and “ranch” homes top the search list.

For Connecticut buyers, this means that homes with garages, offering both storage and shelter from winter snow, remain a critical feature. Likewise, the popula

rity of ranch homes speaks to a preference for simplicity, ease of access, and low-maintenance living.

Connecticut’s homebuyers are also aligning with national trends in their interest in properties with scenic features, such as lakeside homes, which top the list in many states, from Alabama to South Carolina. And just like shoppers across the country, many in Connecticut are looking for homes that allow small pets or even offer spaces for recreational activities like backyard gardens or patios.

The Rise of Customization and Fun Home Features

In addition to practical considerations, some buyers are looking for something a bit more personalized or fun. Zillow reports that searches for unique and customized home features are becoming increasingly popular. For example, some shoppers in Colorado searched for homes with “roller coasters,” while others in Michigan wanted houses with “laser tag” rooms. In Connecticut, while such specific requests are rare, the trend for flexible spaces, whether that means large backyards for family activities or expansive basements for home gyms or entertainment rooms, is growing.

Interestingly, Zillow also notes that a handful of shoppers in 22 states searched for “haunted” homes, and some Connecticut buyers have also explored the market for historically significant or uniquely themed properties. Whether it’s an old mansion or a house with a quirky backstory, some buyers are embracing the unusual.

As the housing market continues to evolve, Connecticut buyers are making it clear that their ideal homes offer a mix of comfort, flexibility, and personality. From ranch-style homes and lakefront retreats to homes with spacious garages and multi-functional living spaces, these preferences align with the growing trend toward homes that are not only practical but also reflect a homeowner’s unique lifestyle.


Before you go!

Support local news in Bristol, CT

The Bristol Edition is an independent, nonprofit online newspaper dedicated to keeping Bristol informed and engaged. Your donation helps us deliver meaningful stories, highlight local voices, and foster a stronger community. Believe in the power of local news? Support us today!


Subscribe Free to The Bristol Edition for local news updates


About the Author

Laura Bailey
Photographer and photojournalist living in Bristol Connecticut

Be the first to comment on "Homebuyers in Connecticut seek more space, scenic views"

Civil discourse is key to having any comments posted.