What’s Ahead for 2026 in the Home Improvement Industry

The home improvement industry continues to move with incredible momentum, and 2026 is shaping up to be a promising year for contractors, designers, remodelers, and every home service professional in between. Homeowners are investing in their spaces with confidence, and industry forecasts point to steady, healthy growth well into next year.

According to the Home Improvement Research Institute, the total U.S. home improvement market is expected to grow in 2026, with the consumer segment leading the way. Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies also expects remodeling and repair spending to rise at the start of 2026, supported by strong homeowner equity and an aging housing stock that encourages ongoing improvements. Even as the economy shifts, the desire to improve the home remains one of the most stable consumer priorities.

This means the landscape ahead is full of opportunity for businesses of every specialty, from full scale remodels to smaller upgrades and outdoor living enhancements.

Homeowners Are Investing with Purpose and Confidence

Homeowners continue to spend on kitchens, baths, whole home renovations, and functional improvements that enhance everyday living. The U.S. home remodeling market was valued at over four hundred billion dollars in 2024, and industry analysts forecast continued annual growth. This momentum carries directly into 2026, where thoughtful investment remains a priority for families who want comfort, efficiency, and long term value.

People are not pulling back. They are approaching their projects with intention and choosing professionals who communicate clearly, show reliable craftsmanship, and deliver a high quality experience from start to finish.

Personalization Is Becoming a Central Theme

One of the strongest shifts for 2026 is a growing desire for spaces that feel uniquely personal. A recent report from the American Institute of Architects noted rising interest in design and livability centered improvements, which reflects a broader homeowner desire for style driven upgrades that blend function and comfort.

This includes custom cabinetry, unique finishes, distinctive lighting selections, and updated layouts that maximize the home’s natural flow. Even small modifications can create a sense of luxury and individuality. Businesses that showcase creativity and tailored solutions will continue to attract highly motivated clients.

Outdoor Living Projects Remain a Major Priority

Outdoor improvements remain one of the most resilient and fastest growing segments in home improvement. Homeowners are viewing their outdoor spaces as true extensions of the home, investing in modern hardscapes, landscape upgrades, water features, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, and entertainment areas that can be used throughout the year.

Builder Online also reports that remodeling and retrofit focused projects are expected to lead building product spending into 2026 because of strong demand and the aging home inventory across the country. This creates meaningful opportunities for hardscape companies, landscape designers, lighting specialists, carpenters, and any contractor working in the outdoor living space.

Technology Is Reshaping the Customer Journey

The modern homeowner journey is more digital, more visual, and more convenience driven. People want easy scheduling, fast responses, clear expectations, and ways to visualize their project before committing.

Leading companies are adopting tools such as digital proposals, online scheduling, virtual previews, client portals, and streamlined follow up systems. Even modest upgrades in communication or transparency can build trust quickly and set a business apart.

Reputation and Visibility Are Becoming Stronger Drivers of Success

With homeowners comparing more professionals before committing, reputation is becoming a defining competitive advantage. Reviews, before and after photos, consistent branding, and strong communication all play a major role in their decision making process.

The Joint Center for Housing Studies reinforces that homeowner improvements remain a steady spending category, which means competition stays active. Companies with strong, recognizable, multichannel presence will capture more of these opportunities simply by staying top of mind throughout the planning process.

Education Is Emerging as a Powerful Marketing Edge

Homeowners want to feel knowledgeable and prepared before beginning a project. Companies that provide helpful resources, such as blogs, quick videos, or comparison guides, build trust long before the consultation. Educational content supports higher quality leads, smoother conversations, and stronger conversions.

By guiding homeowners through the process, professionals become a go to source of clarity in a world full of confusing information.

Print and Digital Work Strongest as a Team

Homeowners interact with information in many different ways, and no single channel captures their full attention. Print builds trust, credibility, and memorability. Digital reinforces the message, increases engagement, and captures active interest.

This combined approach is validated by ongoing industry research, which consistently shows that remodeling spending is healthy and homeowner interest remains high across multiple touchpoints. THM Media was built around this exact strategy, ensuring local homeowners see your brand where they read, search, scroll, and make decisions.

How to Prepare for a Successful 2026

The most successful companies will:

• Strengthen their presence across both print and digital
• Highlight their unique expertise and craftsmanship
• Embrace technology that enhances communication
• Share educational content that answers homeowner questions
• Showcase both large scale and small scale projects
• Stay top of mind through consistent visibility

A thoughtful approach now sets the stage for lasting growth.

Make 2026 Your Best Year Yet

THM Media helps home improvement companies reach qualified homeowners who are actively planning their next project. Our combination of print, digital, and Marketplace visibility keeps your brand in front of the right audience at the right time.

If you are ready to grow your presence and generate more inquiries in 2026, we would love to help.

Email NorCalMarketing@TheHomeMag.com
Call (866) 934-6115
Request a media kit here.

Let’s build something incredible in 2026.