Cozy, Smart, and Climate-ready: What to Look For When Buying a Home This Fall in Central Indiana

If you’re on the hunt for a home this fall in Central Indiana, you’re likely considering more than just the price tag or square footage. The homes that catch your eye now are those that resonate with you, not just in appearance but in how they function in your everyday life.

This means thinking about how the layout fits your daily routine, how efficient the systems are, and how well the home is prepared for long-term comfort and stability. According to Zillow’s analysis of Fall 2025 listing data, buyers are increasingly focused on features that blend calm design with practical resilience. Search terms like “cozy,” “solar,” and “whole-house battery” are popping up more frequently, indicating a shift in priorities among homebuyers.

If you’re actively touring homes or gearing up to do so, here are some key aspects to pay attention to as you explore each space, along with a few questions to consider before you schedule your next showing.

Before you tour, ask yourself:

• What matters most in your daily routine?
• Are there features that make life easier, not harder?
• How much work are you willing to take on after closing?
• Do you want something already efficient, or are you open to upgrading?

Layouts that feel calm and easy to live in

This season, some of the most sought-after listings feature layouts that are intuitive to navigate. Rather than sprawling, overly styled spaces, many buyers are leaning towards homes with clearly defined areas. Spaces like dens, built-in benches, and smaller living areas that provide privacy or a sense of retreat are gaining traction.

Zillow has noted that the term “cozy” is appearing in listings more often this year than in the past two. This trend is also reflected in design choices. Matte finishes, natural wood, stone accents, and earth-toned color palettes are becoming more common.

As you walk through a home, take note of how the layout feels. Can you envision winding down here at the end of a long day? Are there spaces to retreat to, or does everything blend into one large room?

Older charm with updated systems

If you’re touring a home that boasts original woodwork, vintage tile, or arched doorways, it’s worth taking a closer look behind the walls. Many of this fall’s most competitive listings combine classic features with updated plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or roofing systems.

The ideal scenario is a home that has character but functions as if it’s already been through a thorough inspection. This includes essentials like working outlets and functional ductwork, as well as modern insulation and efficient water heaters.

If you’re exploring an older property, inquire about when the last major system updates were completed. Aesthetic charm can be a bonus, but it’s much easier to appreciate when it doesn’t come with a long list of repairs.

Energy efficiency and smart systems that actually work

Features that help lower monthly costs or enhance comfort are climbing higher on buyer checklists. This includes smart thermostats, heat pump water heaters, zoned HVAC systems, and high-efficiency appliances.

Listings are also highlighting automated lighting, whole-home monitoring, or smart window treatments. If you’re checking out a home with these features, ask whether the systems connect to a central hub or operate independently. Some setups are straightforward and beneficial, while others might come with ongoing subscriptions or complex apps.

Focus less on the number of gadgets and more on how they enhance livability. Are the systems user-friendly? Have they been well-maintained? Are they compatible with what you already use?

Climate-resilient upgrades

Zillow has observed a noticeable increase in listings that mention solar panels or whole-house battery storage. These features are particularly attractive in regions where weather disruptions, power outages, or extreme temperatures are becoming more frequent.

You might also come across listings that highlight drainage improvements, rainwater collection systems, sump pumps, or drought-tolerant landscaping. These upgrades aren’t just about sustainability; they also minimize unexpected maintenance and help the home endure over time.

If you’re touring homes in areas prone to storms, heatwaves, or fire risks, ask whether the property includes any climate-adaptive features. They might not be the flashiest upgrades, but they can make a significant difference in the long run.

Bathrooms, storage, and daily ease

One area where trends and practicality intersect is in the bathroom. Spa-style layouts, especially wet rooms that combine the tub and shower into one open waterproof space, are becoming more common. These designs are not only easier to clean but also more versatile for various household needs.

Buyers are also paying attention to how laundry rooms, entryways, and kitchen storage are arranged. Look for layouts that minimize friction. This could mean clean drop zones near the entrance, natural light in work areas, or well-organized utility spaces that don’t feel like an afterthought.

During your tour, consider how your daily routine would unfold in the space. Will you need to rearrange things just to function, or is it already set up for how you live?

What to watch out for

While some homes are standing out for all the right reasons, others are showing signs of over-personalization or deferred maintenance. Highly specific paint choices, lawns that require constant upkeep, or appliances nearing the end of their lifespan are becoming easier for buyers to overlook.

Even some smart systems can turn into a drawback if they aren’t well-integrated or come with hidden costs. If a home seems overloaded with automation but nothing connects, or the seller can’t explain how it works, that might indicate more hassle than value.

Outdated wiring, inadequate insulation, and older HVAC units are also top concerns. Many buyers are asking about energy bills upfront. If a listing can’t demonstrate how the home performs, it may not be worth pursuing further.

A practical lens for your home search

Buying a home this fall means looking beyond just a list of features. It’s about recognizing how a space will support you not just at closing, but in the seasons and years to come.

This might involve asking questions about energy performance, understanding what certain upgrades actually do, or distinguishing between cosmetic staging and a home that is genuinely easy to live in.

We help buyers evaluate homes with both lifestyle and logistics in mind. This means identifying which elements are worth investing in and which could pose challenges later. It also means keeping you focused on what truly matters for your goals, not just what looks good in photos.

What are you looking for in a new home? We can help you find it.