Zillow Reports Cottages, Customization Trendy in 2026

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Zillow, Seattle, analyzed the features that are causing homes to sell for more this year.

For example, per the analysis, cottage-inspired lifestyle features are helping homes sell for more. Homes with a dock sell for as much as 5.4% more. An outdoor kitchen can increase sale prices by 4.4% and an outdoor shower can up the price by 4.3%.

Even just including the word “cottage” in a listing can bump up a price by 3.2%. Waterfront homes sell for 3% more and outdoor fireplaces can add 2.8%.

“Cottagecore taps into a desire for homes that feel like an escape from everyday life,” said Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s home trends expert. “After years of busy schedules and screen time, buyers are drawn to spaces that encourage slowing down, where they can picture sunset dinners by the water or s’mores around the fire. Even if the home isn’t actually a vacation property, buyers are willing to pay more for features that make everyday life feel like a getaway.”

Customized, turnkey homes can sell up to 2.9% more than similar homes, and remodeled homes for 2.2% more. Fixer-uppers are selling for 14% less.

“When affordability is tight, the last thing buyers want is another expensive project waiting for them,” said Zillow Senior Economist Kara Ng. “Homes that are already updated and thoughtfully designed can command higher prices because buyers can roll those costs into their mortgage, rather than paying for expensive improvements after closing.”

In terms of specific features, Zillow noted that homes that mention quartzite countertops sell for 5.3% more than expected. That’s followed by quartz, at 3%, soapstone, at 2.7%, marble, at 1.9%, and onyx, at 1.6%.