When it comes to a brand-new house, buyers say four features matter the most

One of the biggest appeals of building a home is the freedom to shape a home around the way you want to live. For Australians, that comes down to four key elements.Every year, realestate.com.au conducts research into buyers who have either bought a brand-new home, or are considering it. This year, that research showed that among buyers of new detaches houses, two features tie for most important: weather-protected outdoor spaces and home automation (e.g. security).Each were nominated by 49% of new-home buyers as important features for a new build.When building a new home, Australians care a lot about having a covered outdoor space where they can relax and entertain. Image: GettyUpgraded kitchen appliance packages came next at 46%, followed closely by upgraded floor coverings at 45%.Among buyers in the premium market, who were searching for homes above $1.5 million, high-end finishes were even more appealing: upgraded kitchen appliances and floor coverings were each nominated by 55%, while premium bathroom detailing reached 52%.Across Australia, builders are bringing these wide-spread preferences to life in different ways – from covered alfresco spaces with seamless indoor-outdoor fl...