Out-of-State Buyers Love St. George — Here’s How to Attract Them

If you’ve noticed more out-of-state license plates around southern Utah lately, you’re not imagining it. More people are moving to St. George for the red-rock scenery, warm winters, and active outdoor lifestyle, or they're buying second homes and vacation rentals here. If you’re getting ready to sell, understanding what St. George relocation buyers want will help you position your home to sell faster and for top dollar.

1. Lead with the Views and Outdoor Access

For many relocation buyers, the scenic setting is the primary draw. If your property offers canyon, mesa, golf-course, or mountain views (or easy access to Snow Canyon, Red Cliffs, or local trails) let's highlithg that in your listing. Great photos and a listing description that calls out nearby outdoor assets will speak directly to buyers who are buying a lifestyle as much as a home.

You can even stage your home to emphasize views, but orienting furniture, window coverings, and outdoor living areas to showcase the vistas. 

2. Emphasize Low-Maintenance Living

Out-of-state buyers often want a “lock-and-leave” or low-upkeep home they don’t have to babysit. Features that appeal include:

• Water-wise landscaping and easy-care yards
• Energy-efficient HVAC, windows, and appliances
• HOA-covered exterior maintenance or gated communities

If your home already checks these boxes, make them prominent in your marketing. If not, consider small updates that reduce perceived maintenance burden.

3. Promote Community Amenities

Resort-style amenities sell well to relocation buyers. If your neighborhood offers a pool, pickleball/tennis courts, walking trails, fitness center, or community events, we can highlight those in both photos and copy. Make sure you let us know what amenities and community features you and your neighbors love. Buyers relocating for lifestyle often choose neighborhoods for the shared amenities as much as they choose a specific house.

4. Make the Home Move-In Ready

Most out-of-state buyers don’t want to coordinate renovations from afar. They prefer homes that are updated, clean, and move-in ready. Consider:

• Scheduling a pre-listing inspection to address surprises early
• Handling minor cosmetic updates: fresh paint, modern fixtures, curb appeal
• Staging the home to show functional living spaces and outdoor potential

A little preparation often leads to stronger offers and smoother closings.

Our expert Erika Rogers says, “Buyers moving to St. George are buying a lifestyle — the views, the weather, the trails. When I market a home for relocation buyers, I show not just the house but the life it enables. That’s what gets offers quickly.”

5. Make Relocation Easy — Provide Local Resources

Relocation buyers appreciate sellers and agents who make the transition simple. Your marketing and listing packet can include:

• Neighborhood guides and nearby school info
• Local service providers (landscapers, handymen, movers)
• Information on HOA rules, utility providers, and seasonal considerations

Providing this upfront shows buyers you know the area and reduces friction during their decision-making process.

With more people moving to St. George than ever, sellers who tailor their marketing to relocation buyers have a competitive advantage. Highlight views, promote low-maintenance features and community amenities, and make your home truly move-in ready. Those steps help tell the story of life in St. George — and that story is what relocation buyers are eager to buy.