What Buyers Search for in a Home, by State

In its endless quest to mine meaningful data from its search engine, Realtor.com has unearthed what it says are the features most sought after by home shoppers in each state. Interestingly, RV garages turn up as a desired characteristic in Idaho, but not in Manhattan.

Realtor.com analyzed keyword home search data in each U.S. state to determine regional must-have features among those searching for a home.

According to the data, Mainers want to go "upta camp," a local term used for a cabin or cottage. Oklahomans are looking for storm shelters, and California loves solar power. In Hawaii, where real estate prices are sky-high and leaseholds are part of the for-sale market, home shoppers are searching for "fee simple" homes to ensure they own the land and the building in their little piece of paradise. Additionally, D.C. residents want to be near the Metro, the city's local public transportation system, Pennsylvanians want parking; and in New York, where outdoor space can be hard to come by, residents would love to have a balcony.

"While some of the country's most-loved home features, such as accessory dwelling units or lakefront properties, will likely fetch a premium on the open market, others are more matters of the heart," said George Ratiu, senior economist, realtor.com. "Maybe you grew up in a certain style of home or have always dreamed of having a big yard -- everyone's vision of home is unique and being able to search for what makes a house perfect for you can help you find true love in a new home."

Topping the list of most-loved features are the makings for man-caves, she-sheds, workshops and granny pods. Popular search terms in this category include in-law apartment, barn, ADU, casita and RV parking. Residents in 13 states, including Arizona, Idaho, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah and Washington, all want alternative living spaces. Whether it's because they love being in close proximity to their relatives or because they love the extra rental income, separate spaces are a top must-have item.

Unsurprisingly, people in many states love their privacy -- acreage, fenced yard, room for horses and a country setting all make the top searched feature list. Home shoppers in six states -- Alaska, Illinois, Iowa, Vermont, Wisconsin and Wyoming -- all want room to roam and some real separation from the neighbors.

With a large number of baby boomers reaching retirement age, America has soured on stairs. Residents in nine states -- Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, North Dakota, Ohio, Rhode Island and Virginia -- don't want anything to do with multi-level homes. Top searches in these states include first-floor master, ranch, rambler and single-level.

For some, the old adage rings true that real estate is all about location. In Arkansas, Florida, Minnesota, Missouri, Tennessee and West Virginia, having a heavenly location with beautiful views topped the must-have list. Home buyers in these states are searching for a lake view, canal, dock, lakeshore and river access as their favorite features. For others, it's all about looks. For example, in states like Connecticut and New Hampshire that have a lot of older homes, people are looking for contemporary style, while South Carolinians love traditional brick facades and Texans prefer a modern aesthetic.