Contractors are cautiously optimistic after the Federal Reserve delivered its third interest-rate cut of 2025, lowering its benchmark rate by another 25 basis points. The move reinforces a gradual easing trend that developers hope will reduce borrowing costs as 2026 approaches. Industry leaders say the cut boosts confidence and supports projects already in planning, but it is not large enough to immediately spur a wave of new nonresidential construction starts. While planning activity dipped slightly in November, it remains significantly higher than last year, suggesting continued momentum even as financing…
Read MoreDay: December 10, 2025
When will housing prices drop?
New data from Realtor.com shows the U.S. housing market is cooling, with homes staying on the market longer and prices softening in many areas. In November 2025, the typical home spent 64 days for sale, three days longer than a year earlier and nine days longer than in 2022. Price trends vary by location, but nationally there are clear signs of easing: annual price declines were recorded in 28 of the 50 largest metro areas, while six others saw flat prices. The U.S. Census Bureau reports the median home price…
Read More5 home renovation trends that Interior Designers are ditching in 2026
As 2026 approaches, interior designers are urging homeowners to rethink certain once-popular renovation trends that are now falling out of favor. Experts Jennifer Cataldo, Tennille Burnup and Alyssa Anselmo say flat, builder-grade drywall is being replaced by textured, handcrafted wall finishes like limewash and Venetian plaster, which add warmth and dimension. Waterfall kitchen islands, long seen as a modern luxury statement, are also losing appeal in favor of more custom, inviting designs that mix materials, incorporate furniture-style bases and emphasize subtlety over flash. Light blonde oak is giving way to…
Read MoreIntroducing the 2026 Color Trends
With the new year quickly approaching, design teams forecast their predictions for color trends in 2026. These picks inspire interior designers and clients when styling a new home or renovation. The trend across the board is a grounding in natural and neutral colors from white, brown and green. Sherwin-Williams’s pick of Universal Khaki is described as, “An essential neutral selected by our color experts for its beautiful balance of livability and longevity.” Pantone’s unveiling of Cloud Dancer was repeated across headlines after it’s release. It is described as, “Lofty white…
Read MoreWhat’s Hot in Construction and Interior Remodeling
In 2025, homebuilding and remodeling will be shaped by a strong focus on sustainability, smart technology, flexibility and personal comfort. Smart-home features are now expected rather than optional, with AI-driven lighting, climate control, energy management and integrated wiring becoming standard. At the same time, eco-friendly construction leads the market, with solar-ready roofs, energy-efficient windows, low-VOC finishes, high-performance insulation and water-saving systems increasingly built into both new homes and renovations. Natural and reclaimed materials, biophilic design elements and indoor-outdoor connections reflect homeowners’ desire for healthier, nature-connected living environments. Design trends are…
Read MoreStable Construction Labor Market
Analysis from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) shows that the construction labor market remained relatively unchanged through October. This information originates from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS). However, the current level of open jobs is down measurably from two years ago. This decline aligns with the decrease in residential construction activity. While majorly unchanged the labor market was at 7.67 million in October compared 7.66 million the month prior. There is some notice that Federal Reserve’s decision to reduce interest rate…
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