According to data from the National Association of Home Builders’ Consumer Expenditure Survey (CES), buyers of existing single-family detached homes generate increased spending during the first year after purchase, approximately $8,677. Buyers of existing homes spend more on property alterations and repairs during the first three years after moving into the home, but more so during the first year. During the first year after purchase, the largest increase in spending occurs in property alterations and repairs, with predicted annual purchases of $13,882. Typical existing home buyers spend more on appliances…
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ASLA urges for construction workforce stability
A new analysis from the American Society of Landscape Architects highlights the need for construction workforce stability. Recent studies throughout the industry predict that by 2030, the industry will face a gap of millions of skilled trades positions, driven by demographics, slow training pipelines and growing demand for housing, infrastructure, as well as climate-resilient projects, unless we begin the conversation about construction workforce stability. “As design professionals, we need to begin to make workforce stability a normal part of the conversation; not as politics, but as a health, safety and…
Read MoreRemodel of the Week: Big Horn Remodeling
For Big Horn Remodeling, this primary bathroom and closet renovation project reflects the builder’s commitment to client satisfaction. The project involved removing and replacing a dated tub, enlarging the shower by approximately 30%, relocating the drain and installing additional features that modernized the space. After purchasing the home, the homeowner wanted a brighter bathroom with an expansive layout, but the project came with its own unique challenges after the home was neglected throughout the years of rental use. The bathroom needed more than a finish refresh; the tub took up…
Read MoreLuxury-inspired bathrooms drive renovations
The primary driver of bathroom remodels is homeowners’ desire for luxury bathrooms. Interior designers and architects weighed in, sharing what bathroom features homeowners are prioritizing to achieve that luxurious bathroom design. Modern free-standing tubs can open up the space and reflect the look of a luxury resort bathroom. Interior designer Jessica Risko Smith said that pairing a free-standing tub with light wood flooring and crisp white walls can instantly modernize a bathroom. Architect Colleen Healey boldly suggests adding a skylight into the bathroom to bring in natural light. Warm woods,…
Read MoreInterior designers predict 2027 renovation trends
As we pass the 2026 midyear mark, interior designers are already predicting the style shifts and upcoming trends for 2027. According to these interior designers, the biggest shifts are less about one particular style and more about creating homes with greater intention and with consideration for the future. At the same time, rooms are becoming more flexible and personalized, reflecting how families actually gather, entertain and move throughout their spaces. Wellness has been a popular priority throughout 2026 and it looks like that is not about to change anytime soon…
Read MoreRemodeling spending expected to slow down
According to new data from Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, annual spending on home improvements and repairs is expected to slow down until mid-2027. The latest Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) suggests this will lead to a third straight quarter of decelerating year-over-year growth, with spending projected to be $519 billion through mid-2027. “Growth in remodeling permitting and retail spending on building products has flattened recently, suggesting that renovation activity is cooling,” said Rachel Bogardus Drew, Director of the Remodeling Futures Program at the Center. “Reduced housing…
Read MoreHome accessibility upgrades fuel renovation boom
Home accessibility modifications are driving a renovation boom as homeowners bring multiple generations of family under one roof. Instead of a simple kitchen refresh, clients are prioritizing grab bars, wider doorways and walk-in showers that serve toddlers and elders alike. The most requested upgrades tend to focus on the rooms where families spend the most time and where safety risks run highest, including curb-less walk-in showers, wider doorways, lever-style doorknobs instead of round knobs and lighting improvements. Multigenerational household renovation has become common as more families choose to combine resources…
Read MoreRemodel of the Week: Bailey Design + Build
In this Louisville, Kentucky, home remodel, Bailey Design + Build transformed the home’s outdoor space into a personal retreat, adhering to the homeowners’ vision while breaking boundaries in a backyard renovation. The project’s main objectives were to increase privacy from neighborhoods, add more shade, add premium appliances that enhanced the clients’ desired outdoor living lifestyle and create a warm atmosphere by integrating inviting textures. The remodeler integrated a bar and dining area beneath a custom standing seam metal roof, blending practical coverage with a polished look. Privacy screens were softened…
Read MoreRemodeling trends prioritize balance
Home renovation and design trends for 2026 are shaping the biggest home renovation projects by seamlessly blending modern and traditional styles, with a strong focus on practicality and aesthetics across key areas of the home. Many homeowners choose to upgrade their homes with energy-efficient features, bold colors and natural wood paneling, creating a balanced decor style that feels both timeless and current. Overall, the biggest design trend is not focused on a single aesthetic but on balance and ensuring the home meets the clients’ long-term needs. More homeowners are prioritizing…
Read MorePending home sales soften in June
According to the National Association of REALTORS® Pending Home Sales report, pending home sales in June decreased by 5.4% month-over-month and 0.3% year-over-year. However, at the local level, several markets posted notable year-over-year gains in pending home sales. Among the 50 largest metro areas, 10 markets posted large annual increases in pending home sales. The Pending Home Sales Index is a leading indicator for the housing sector, based on pending sales of existing homes. NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said that elevated mortgage rates and home prices are driving factors…
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