In a year de ned by AI innovation and shi ing energy priorities, U.S. homeowners are responding in their own way — by rethinking how their homes use power, water and natural light.
Realtor.com’s new 2025 Home Trends Report found that e ciency, sustainability and nature-inspired design are on the rise, while more opulent or space-heavy features are losing ground — highlighting a clear shi in how Americans de ne comfort and value.
According to the analysis, WaterSense xtures — which reduce water use by at least 20% — topped the list with a 289.6% year-over-year increase in mentions within listing descriptions. Homes featuring this certi cation carried a median listing price of about $628,000, underscoring their appeal in mid-to upper-tier markets. Net-Zero Ready homes (+198%) and EV charging features (+175%) also surged, re ecting rising consumer interest in lowering utility costs and preparing for an all-electric future.
“We’re seeing homeowners prioritize
The hottest home trends of 2025 identi ed
features that make their properties more e cient, resilient and self-sustaining,” said Anthony Smith, senior economist at Realtor.com. “Buyers increasingly view eco-friendly upgrades as both a lifestyle choice and a smart nancial investment — especially as energy costs and climate concerns become part of everyday decision-making.”
Bringing nature indoors
The second-fastest-growing feature in 2025 was biophilic/indoor-outdoor design, up 163% year-over-year. These listings showcase expansive glass doors, interior courtyards and living walls — architectural elements that dissolve boundaries between indoors and outdoors. The trend re ects a growing desire to bring natural light, plants, and organic materials into daily living spaces. The median list price for homes with these features was $859,000 underscoring their appeal to higher end and luxury buyers.
Another top 10 trend, outdoor lowvoltage lighting, which rose 91%,
■ See TRENDS, page 3
Photo by Vasyl Cheipesh / Getty Images
Living walls have become a popular feature that attracts homebuyers.
More Californians can purchase a home in third-quarter 2025
California Association of Realtors News release
SACRAMENTO — Cooling market competition and an increase in available housing helped moderate home prices and allowed more Californians to buy homes in the third quarter of 2025, according to the California Association of Realtors.
Seventeen percent of the state’s homebuyers could a ord to purchase a median-priced, existing single-family home in California in third-quarter 2025, up from 15% in the second quarter of 2025 and up from 16% in the third quarter of 2024, according to CAR’s Traditional Housing A ordability Index. Housing a ordability in California stayed near its all-time low and continued to be a challenge for both buyers and sellers.
The third-quarter 2025 gure is less than a third of the a ordability index peak of 56% in the third quarter of 2012. CAR’s HAI measures the percentage of all households that can a ord to purchase a median-priced single-family home in California. CAR also reports a ordability indices for regions and select counties within the state. The index is considered the most fundamental measure of housing well-being for home buyers in the state. The e ective mortgage interest rate declined for the second consecutive quarter, nearly reversing the growth experienced over the last year. The average e ective interest rate receded to 6.67% in thirdquarter 2025 from the previous quarter (6.90%) and slightly above a year ago (6.63%). Mortgage rates had oscillated through the rst half of the year amid tariinduced uncertainty, but have reached the lowest level in a year, despite a mild bounce back a er the Federal Reserve’s October decision to cut its benchmark rate
by 25 basis points to 3.75% from 4.%.
The Fed is prepared to cut rates further in response to a cooling labor market, but elevated tari rates will likely put upward pressure on in ation, which could prevent the U.S. central bank from easing its monetary policy too quickly. As such, while borrowing costs may remain lower in the short term, interest rates could uctuate in the months ahead, creating a complex backdrop for would-be buyers when contemplating their home purchase timing or nancing strategies.
The statewide median home price moderated in the third quarter of 2025 as market competition eased and housing supply improved, leading to slower price growth. Although mortgage rates edged down during the quarter, borrowing costs remained near record highs. The monthly payment for a median-priced home, including taxes and insurance, fell 3.8% from the previous quarter but was still 1.3% higher than a year earlier, re ecting a slight year-over-year increase in the e ective mortgage rate.
A minimum annual income of $223,600 was needed to qualify for the purchase of a $887,380 statewide median-priced, existing single-family home in the third quarter of 2025. The monthly payment, including taxes and insurance on a 30-year, xed-rate loan, would be $5,590, assuming a 20% down payment and an e ective composite interest rate of 6.67%.
The statewide median price of existing single-family homes in California fell 2% in the third quarter of 2025 compared to the previous quarter, re ecting a cooling in market competition. However, on a yearover-year basis, home prices rebounded — rising 0.8% a er posting the rst decline in eight quarters earlier this year — as easing mortgage rates encouraged more
buyers to return to the market. With the market transitioning into the o -season, home prices are expected to moderate further as seasonal factors kick in. If lower mortgage rates materialize in the months ahead and economic uncertainties subside, housing a ordability could see some slight improvement in the next couple of quarters.
More California households (27%) could a ord a typical condo/townhome in thirdquarter 2025, rising from 25% both in second-quarter 2025 and in third-quarter 2024. An annual income of $163,600 was required to make the monthly payment of $4,090 on the $649,990 median-priced condo/townhome in the third quarter of 2025.
Compared with California, more than one-third (36%) of the nation’s households could a ord to purchase a $426,800 median-priced home, which required a minimum annual income of $107,600 to make monthly payments of $2,690. Nationwide, a ordability edged up from 35% in both the second quarter of 2025 and a year ago.
Key points from the Third-Quarter 2025 Housing A ordability report include:
• When compared to the previous quarter, housing a ordability in thirdquarter 2025 declined in 10 counties and was unchanged in ve. Although prices remained near all-time highs, 38 counties showed quarter-to-quarter improvement in a ordability as a result of slightly lower mortgage rates, higher income and so er home prices. When compared to a year ago, a ordability improved in three out of ve counties across the state, with a ordability improving in 32 counties, while 21 either declined (11) or showed no improvement (10).
• Lassen (52%) remained the most a ordable county in California, followed
by a two-way tie between Amador and Tuolumne at 36%, where a little over one out of three households in those counties able to a ord to purchase the medianpriced home in their respective county. Of all California counties, Lassen continued to require the lowest minimum qualifying income ($64,800) to purchase a medianpriced home in third-quarter 2025.
• Mono (7%), was the least a ordable county in the state, followed by Monterey (9%) and a two-way tie at 12% between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, with each of those counties requiring a minimum annual income of at least $240,400 to purchase a median-priced home. San Mateo (18%) continued to require the highest minimum qualifying income ($524,000) to buy a median-priced home and once again was the only county requiring a minimum qualifying income of more than $500,000. Santa Clara (19%) came in second and San Francisco (22%) came in third with a minimum required income of $482,400 and $409,600, respectively.
• Borrowing costs at near-all-time highs remain a hurdle for improvements in housing a ordability in many parts of the state. In the third quarter of 2025, the housing a ordability index of 20 counties tracked by CAR either remained unchanged or declined from the like quarter a year ago. Lassen (29%) experienced the biggest year-to-year drop, falling six percentage points. Tuolumne (36%) came in second with a ve-point decline, while Glenn (37%) and Tehama (35%) followed closely, with each dipping three points below the same quarter of last year. Despite improving from a year ago, housing a ordability remained near its alltime low and continued to be a challenge for both buyers and sellers.
supports the theme of mindful design — integrating sustainability and aesthetics while extending living spaces beyond the home’s walls.
Smarter, more connected homes
the lasting in uence of hybrid work and digital lifestyles. Reliable connectivity and automation are now as much selling points as square footage.
Familiar favorites
Fading fashions
By contrast, formal dining rooms with built-ins (-25.3%), in nity-edge pools (-24.7%) and three-car garages (-19.1%) all saw notable declines, as buyers favor modern, natural and right-sized design choices over ornate or oversized spaces. The data suggests that overtly opulent features are giving way to simplicity and function. Trends Continued from 2
Technology also remains a key part of home evolution. Features like built-in co ee systems, smart lighting scenes and hardwired ethernet/cat6 ranked among the top 15 fastest-growing trends, highlighting
“A decade ago, buyers might have asked about open oor plans or granite counters,” Smith added. “Today, they’re looking for EV chargers, high-speed wiring, and homes that can adapt. The de nition of what makes a home modern has completely evolved.”
While the fastest-growing features highlight new priorities, some classics remain in demand. Home o ce/Zoom rooms jumped 56.5%, and fully fenced yards and nished walkout basements continue to be among the most widely mentioned, reinforcing how remote work and multifunctional living continue to shape buyer preferences.
YOUR GUIDE TO PROPERTY LISTINGS
YOURGUIDETO PROPERTY LISTINGS
12601 Greater Cameron Park
12602 El Dorado Hills
12601 Greater Cameron Park
12603 Shingle Springs
12602 El Dorado Hills
12604 Rescue, Luneman
You may also find it helpful to browse listings by the type of real estate you are interested in buying. To find the geographic location, look at the classification heading and locate the matching zone number on the El Dorado County Map.
You may also find it helpful to browse listings by the type of real estate you are interested in buying. To find the geographic location, look at the classification heading, and locate the matching zone number on the El Dorado County Map.
To find property by geographic location, use the following reference table. Each category is separated by the zone number, type of real estate, and location in El Dorado County.
TABLEOFCONTENTS by type of listing
Residential Homes
Mobile Homes in Parks
Vacant Land
Information contained in Home Source MLS Listings are accessed each week, neither Home Source, Mt Democrat or McNaugthon Media /Publishing nor its authors guarantees the accuracy or completeness of any information published herein. Home Source, Mt Democrat or McNaugthon Media nor its authors shall be responsible for any errors, omissions, or claims for damages, including exemplary damages, arising out of use, or with regard to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information contained in Home Source. All rights reserved.
Page 22-25
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All properties are listed by price, address, acreage, listing number, and the Realtor’s office number. If you would like more information about a property, call the relevant office number for that listing.
To find a property by geographic location, use the following reference table. Each category is separated by the zone number, type of real estate, and location in El Dorado County. Properties are sorted by price, in ascending value.
• Additional living space with a wood burning stove and full bathroom
• Stunning pool with 2 waterfalls and exquisite sunset view
• One
• Spacious Master suite with access to the backyard, updated marble dual vanity, walk-in closet, and gorgeous shower with tub
$995,000 MLS# 225123719
DRE#01321499
tree-lined street, with easy access to freeways, restaurants, shopping, and parks, making it the ideal combination of convenience and charm.
DANYELLE PETERSEN • (916) 220-3627
Stunning views stretch across the Sacramento Valley and Sierra Foothills from this stunning 10-acre parcel in Rescue. Tucked within an exclusive, gated community, this property offers ultimate privacy and tranquility in a truly serene setting. Bordering over 600 acres of BLM land with direct river access nearby, it’s a dream for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Thoughtful fire-safety clearing has already been completed ready for your vision to take shape.
IAN MAKER • (916) 715-2018
Homes that just Sold in your neighborhood
OPEN HOUSE DIRECTORY
Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025
11-2PM 3153 CEDAR RAVINE RD, PLACERVILLE
minutes from blend of serenity
$368,000
CHARMING VINTAGE HOME IN THE HEART OF PLACERVILLE
Everything is convenient, shopping, hospital, wonderful restaurants, parks and more. This 3 bedroom 1 1/2 bath home is delightful. The living room has a propane replace keeping the home nice and cozy in the winter. Outside patio is off the living room to enjoy the private backyard. Bright and spacious kitchen. Laundry room and 1/2 half bath off kitchen. Bedrooms are roomy and have nice closet space. There is a 1 car garage and basement area for storage or workshop. Come see this conveniently located home in Historic Placerville California.
Located on 5+ acres on a hill above the Cold Springs Golf Course, this home features a 3 car garage plus a detached workshop/RV garage with a seasonal creek running along. Very clean 3 bedrooms, plus an of ce, living room with a gas log stove and a deck to enjoy the beautiful views
SINGLE-STORY LIVING, & OVER AN ACRE OF PEACEFUL LAND
updated 4-bedroom, 3-bath home truly has it all. With more than $200,000 in thoughtful inch of this property combines modern comfort, elegant design, and e ortless livability. open layout, owing seamlessly into a chef’s dream kitchen and a spacious primary suite total relaxation. ree additional bedrooms o er plenty of versatility for family, guests, or a Step outside to your own private retreat featuring a seasonal stream and waterfall, fully fenced landscaping, and ample space for RV or boat parking, gardening, or animals. A detached potential ADU with a full bathroom and mini-split system adds even more exibility for multigenerational living, hobbies, or workspace needs. Energy e ciency and peace of mind come standard solar, a newer roof, and a newer HVAC system. Perfectly tucked at the end of a quiet street yet from Hwy 50, shopping, dining, and historic downtown Placerville, this home o ers the ideal and convenience.
$849,000
$849,900
$850,000
$850,000
$875,000
$875,000
$991,550
$1,019,000
$1,050,000
$1,059,000
$1,070,000 954 King Richard Ct 4 3 (3 0) 2920 0.27 225134289
$399,900 4240 Pine Forest Dr 3 2 (2 0) 1368 0.36 225128851
$399,900 6230 Dolly Varden Ln
#705400. Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Finance Lenders law - #6073455. CA Department of Business Oversight - 866-275-2677. California - Bureau of Real Estate Branch Of ce License Endorsement #00988341 1-2025
Top of the World Views
Placerville ~ $819,900
Awesome newer custom home on 2.5 acres. Single Level, with tons of light, upgraded finishes with all the frills. High speed
CalNet internet, Large open Kitchen, Dining, Family area. Granite slab and Luxury plank vinyl floors. Huge master suite with a Bay window, walk in closet and custom built-in organizers. The garage is a dream. Fire resistant landscape and two inch onsite personal hydrant, Class A fire retardant roof, Interior sprinklers, stucco and Hardi-plank cement siding.
Pristine Apple Hill Acreage
Camino ~ $650,000
Placerville ~ $750,000
Looking for a private sanctuary? Parklike, fully fenced and gated for the maximum privacy. Store all your toys, or have a hobby shop in the newer 950sf detached garage, as well as an attached 2 garage with a enclosed large shop. Vaulted Ceilings, Wood clad windows, a wood burning stove and Hardwood floors. Quiet neighborhood that’s at the perfect elevation for four mild seasons. There is a fire hydrant on the property for the lowest insurance rates. Roof recently replaced.
Located on 5+ acres on a hill above the Cold Springs Golf Course, this home features a 3 car garage plus a detached workshop/RV garage with a seasonal creek running along. Very clean 3 bedrooms, plus an office, living room with
