Reviewed July 30, 2026. The feature study discussed below analyzed homes listed in 2025. The broader listing and California market figures cover June 2026.
A useful listing makes the home’s value easy to understand. It identifies what has been maintained, what has been updated, what is distinctive, and what still needs attention.
Zillow studied more than two million homes listed for sale in 2025 and reviewed more than 600 common phrases in their listing descriptions. Its model compared expected and actual sale prices after accounting for characteristics such as location, size, property type, bedrooms, bathrooms, and listing timing.
The study found associations. It did not prove that a phrase or feature caused a higher sale price, and it did not measure the return from installing that feature before a sale.
What the feature study found
Homes whose listings used the term “turnkey” sold for 2.9% more than the model expected. Listings using “remodeled” were associated with a 2.2% difference, while listings described as “fixer-uppers” sold for 14% less than expected.
The same analysis found associations for several custom and lifestyle features, including docks, outdoor fireplaces, quartzite countertops, customized spaces, gourmet kitchens, and golf simulators. These findings do not mean adding one feature will produce the reported result for another property.
If a home already has a meaningful feature, show it accurately. Photography, floor plans, records, and direct descriptions should explain the materials, layout, maintenance, and day-to-day function without exaggeration.
Prepare before deciding to renovate
A major project can affect timing, permits, disclosures, cost, and the next buyer’s choices. Before authorizing work for resale, compare the documented cost and schedule with simpler preparation options:
- Repair visible maintenance concerns
- Deep clean and reduce clutter
- Improve lighting where needed
- Refresh damaged paint and finishes
- Service major systems when appropriate
- Organize permits, warranties, invoices, and repair records
- Make outdoor areas easy to understand and maintain
- Plan accurate photography and a useful floor plan
Get local pricing advice and qualified contractor estimates before assuming a project will improve net proceeds.
Price and launch from current evidence
Zillow reported that 25.8% of U.S. listings had a price cut in June, up from 23.9% in May. A price cut does not explain why an individual home changed price. It does show why the launch decision should be based on current competition rather than an old sale, a neighbor’s asking price, or an automated estimate alone.
C.A.R. reported a June statewide median of $904,640 for existing California single-family homes, up 0.4% from June 2025 and down 2.8% from May. Its seasonally adjusted annualized sales rate was 6.0% higher than a year earlier. The statewide sales-price-to-original-list-price ratio was 100%.
A 100% statewide ratio does not mean every California property sold for its original asking price. It combines many transactions and markets. Median changes can also reflect the mix of homes sold rather than the change in value of a typical individual property.
A seller preparation plan
- Review recent closed sales and active competition in the relevant price range.
- Identify the home’s documented features and material condition concerns.
- Address preparation items that make financial and practical sense.
- Gather permits, warranties, invoices, and repair records.
- Build an accurate digital presentation.
- Review early showing activity, feedback, and offers in context.
- Adjust only when the available evidence supports a change.
Important context
Zillow’s feature study reports statistical associations in 2025 listing language. It is not a renovation-return study, an appraisal, or a prediction for an individual home. Zillow’s market measures and C.A.R.’s statewide measures use different methods and cannot price a specific property.
This article is general information, not legal, tax, appraisal, construction, disclosure, or renovation advice. Sellers should confirm pricing, permits, disclosures, contracts, taxes, and work decisions with appropriate local professionals.
Sources and periods
- Zillow home-feature study, published March 24, 2026, analyzing 2025 listings
- Zillow June 2026 Market Report, published July 7, 2026
- CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® June report, covering June 2026
