M
ore than half of U.S. adults (52%) say that the ability to host Thanksgiving is now a factor in their home search, a Realtor.com survey found. Gen Z and millennials are especially influenced, with 60% each citing holiday entertaining as a key consideration, compared to 47% of Gen X and 30% of Baby Boomers.

    The most important rooms for hosting are the living area and kitchen. Over 90% of respondents said a spacious family room and a large kitchen are essential, while only about 12% view chef‑grade features like double ovens as a must. Extra bedrooms and bathrooms matter less, though nearly half would prefer a spare bedroom and 45% an additional bathroom. One‑ and two‑person households typically want two bathrooms, while larger families look for three.

    Realtor.com lists the top features that boost a buyer’s willingness to host:

    - Big kitchen – 92%

    - Large family room – 92%

    - Large dining room – 86%

    - Guest bathroom – 87%

    - Large outdoor space – 76%

    - Guest bedroom – 73%

    - Double oven – 61%

    Senior economist Joel Berner told FOX Business that younger buyers’ focus on Thanksgiving hosting underscores the resilience of U.S. home demand. “Affordability is keeping these buyers out of the market, not a lack of interest,” he said. “As mortgage rates fall and affordability improves, sales should rise because young Americans truly want homes where they can celebrate holidays.”