Single-Family Home Features That Truly Add Value in Prince George
By Jason Luke, Prince George Realtor and Senior Relocation Specialist
When you are buying or selling a home in Prince George, understanding what actually drives value can make a big difference in your decision-making. A recent study from the National Association of Home Builders sheds light on what homebuyers prioritize across North America, and much of it lines up with what I see every day right here in northern B.C.
If you are gearing up to list your home, looking for ways to boost value before selling, or planning a future move, here is a breakdown of the features that matter most.
Square footage continues to lead the pack
It is no surprise: size still matters. Homes between 1,000 and 2,000 square feet are typically valued about 17 percent higher than homes under 1,000 square feet. Properties between 2,000 and 3,000 square feet can see value increases of around 30 percent, while homes above 3,000 square feet may rise by more than 50 percent.
Here in Prince George, buyers tend to appreciate generous living areas that fit real northern lifestyles — space for gear, guests, hobbies, or multi-generational living.
Bedrooms and bathrooms count, too
How your square footage is used is almost as important as the amount of space you have. Adding a full bathroom can increase a home’s value by over 30 percent. Each additional bedroom can bump value by roughly 5 percent.
This tracks with local trends. Families moving to neighbourhoods like College Heights, Hart Highlands, or Seymour see extra bedrooms as long-term flexibility, while seniors downsizing often look for homes with practical layouts and accessible bathrooms.
Functional amenities that boost resale value
When it comes to comfort and convenience, a few features consistently stand out:
• Garages and fireplaces: These can add about 10 percent to a home’s value. In our northern climate, a garage is more than a convenience — it is a lifestyle upgrade.
• Central air conditioning: Nationally, it adds roughly 7 percent. In warmer markets it can add much more, but even in Prince George, more buyers are starting to factor in summer comfort.
• Smart storage and well-designed floor plans: A home does not need to be huge to feel spacious. Intelligent layouts can add value without increasing square footage.
Community quality matters just as much
Value is not only about the home itself — it is also about where you live. Homes in strong, well-maintained neighbourhoods consistently earn higher resale values. Buyers look for walkability, safety, quiet streets, and easy access to parks, schools, and shops.
Communities scoring high in overall neighbourhood quality can see value increases of two percent for every point they climb on a ten-point scale. On the flip side, homes located near neglected or vandalized buildings tend to drop in value by as much as 17 percent.
In Prince George, that means neighbourhoods like Heritage, Charella Gardens, Starlane, the Bowl, and College Heights remain top choices because of their balance of amenities, green space, and steady community development.
What today’s buyers really want
Whether you are a first-time buyer or planning a later-in-life move, the trends are clear:
• Space matters.
• Functionality matters.
• Neighbourhood quality matters.
• Thoughtful design matters.
For seniors looking to downsize, multi-generational families needing more room, or anyone navigating a big transition, these value trends can help you understand what to look for — or where to make smart improvements before selling.
If you ever want help assessing your home’s features or planning a move that fits your next chapter, I am always happy to chat.
jasonlukehomes at gmail dot com
250-301-9960