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 MoreAuthor: Karla Valdez
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 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 MoreUnited States Kitchen Appliance Market Analysis Report 2025
The U.S. kitchen appliances market is expanding steadily, projected to grow from about $74 billion in 2024 to more than $115 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by rising demand for smart, energy-efficient and multifunctional appliances, along with strong interest in home renovations and upgraded kitchen spaces. As smart-home adoption spreads, more consumers are choosing appliances with Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control and sustainability features that support convenience, healthier cooking and lower energy use. Shifting lifestyle trends, such as remote work, busier schedules, health-focused eating and the influence of cooking…
Read MoreSingle-Family Construction Loan Volume Rises in the Third Quarter
Single-family construction lending strengthened in the third quarter, even as the broader real estate lending environment continued to cool. Loans for 1–4 family construction rose to $91.2 billion, the first annual increase in more than two years, showing a small but meaningful uptick in residential building activity. Overall AD&C lending, however, continued its decline for the seventh consecutive quarter, dropping to $463 billion, driven mostly by reduced lending for other types of real estate development. Despite the modest improvement in single-family construction loans, lending levels remain far below historical highs…
Read MoreThumbtack and Redfin Reveal the Home Trend Predictions 2026
Thumbtack’s 2026 Home Trend Predictions Report, released in partnership with Redfin, highlights a major shift in how homeowners are updating their spaces. Renovations are becoming more purposeful, with rising demand for multifunctional kitchens, tech-integrated upgrades and flexible layouts such as ADUs, in-law suites and basement conversions that support multigenerational living or generate rental income. Natural design elements, indoor–outdoor connections and upcycling are also playing a bigger role as homeowners embrace sustainability and comfort. The report shows that many people are staying in their homes longer and choosing to renovate rather…
Read MoreEnd-of-Year Construction Outlook
As 2025 wraps up, the construction industry continues to wrestle with high costs, labor shortages and policy uncertainty, which have slowed activity across both residential and commercial sectors. While data centers remained a bright spot, most building segments stalled due to elevated interest rates and tariff pressures. Labor conditions also tightened, with retirements and limited immigration keeping the supply of skilled workers low and wages high. Input costs stayed relatively stable in 2025, but trade uncertainty could push them higher in 2026. Despite these challenges, the outlook for 2026 carries…
Read MoreHome Remodeling Statistics and Trends of 2025
Home improvement spending is on the rise; over the past decade, the industry has expanded to over $574 billion in size. While individual household renovation budgets dipped in 2024 and are expected to decline again in 2025, overall national spending is still increasing, supported by major projects like roofing, kitchens and bathrooms. The market is also seeing steady business growth, a rising number of remodeling companies and increasing participation of women in construction. At the same time, design trends for 2025 show a shift toward natural, calming and functional living…
Read MoreThese once-forgotten design details will be everywhere in 2026
Interior design in 2026 is moving away from the stark minimalism of the past decade and returning to warmth, character and craftsmanship. Designers report growing demand for curved furniture, architectural details, richer color palettes and the revival of traditional elements like crown molding and layered textiles. Homeowners are mixing materials, reupholstering vintage pieces and embracing jewel tones, textures and patterns—choices that make spaces feel more personal and less formulaic. These shifts aren’t new concepts, but a recalibration after years of pared-down, beige interiors. Rooms are becoming fuller and more tactile,…
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