When deciding between renovating and moving, homeowners in the United States are making a surprising choice in 2026. Traditionally, the main reason to renovate was to increase resale value. This post shares the latest trends and insights from the 2026 State of American Home Renovation Report by Great Day Improvements.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Why are more homeowners renovating instead of moving?
• The most popular home improvement projects for 2026.
• How different generations approach their renovation goals.
• Common challenges homeowners face and how to overcome them.

Homeowners are renovating to fit their needs and enjoy their spaces instead of making updates for future buyers. They care more about making their homes fit their lifestyles right now, a shift in why people renovate and what they want from their homes. Let’s explore why.

Why Homeowners Are Choosing Renovation Over Moving

Comfort, personalization, and making their home easier to live in, are more important than resale value. Homeowners want their spaces not only to improve their everyday lives but also to reflect their personalities. The focus has moved from getting a house ready for someone else to making it feel like home for themselves.

The report found that 65% of homeowners renovated their homes in the past year. This shows that many people would rather improve their current space than deal with a challenging housing market. With home prices going up, investing into your own property often makes more sense.

How Age Impacts Renovation and Home Improvement Project Choices

A homeowner’s age plays a big role in what they want from a renovation:

Younger Homeowners (30–44):

This group is the most active when it comes to renovations, with 72% having finished a project recently. They mainly want to personalize their homes by adding modern upgrades like smart home features, creating flexible spaces, and updating kitchens. They often follow trends, try DIY projects, and use financing to help pay for improvements.

Older Homeowners (45-60+):

Homeowners over 45 usually focus on updates that make their homes more comfortable for aging in place, while also adding long-term value. They often choose projects such as bathroom remodels, turning living spaces into main-floor living areas, and installing energy-efficient windows. These updates are often paid for with savings or home equity, showing a trend toward making homes more practical and enjoyable for years to come.

Personalization Trends: Making Spaces Your Own

People are personalizing their homes with unique and bold accent walls, custom cabinets, and creative outdoor spaces. Some turn spare rooms into home gyms or create backyard retreats. The main goal is to ensure every part of the home reflects the owner’s style and fits their life.

Wondering which home updates are popular right now?

Top Home Renovation Projects of 2026

Beyond refreshing the paint in your home, the top four projects this year focus on comfort and curb appeal. From expanding outdoor living areas to remodeling bathrooms, we explore these four improvement projects below.

Enhance Your Outdoor Living Space

It is becoming popular for homeowners to upgrade their outdoor living areas and landscape their yards to make indoor and outdoor spaces flow seamlessly together.

"A high interest in both landscaping and outdoor living projects tracks with the broader trends we're witnessing," says Tom Edger, a regional manager at Patio Enclosures. He notes that refreshed landscapes and new plants can be paired with patios or pool enclosures to "create a true retreat."

• Patio enclosures and sunrooms let you enjoy the outdoors all year, keeping out dust, critters, the elements. They also add value and usable living space to your home.
• Landscaping can give your home a fresh look and create a peaceful spot to relax. Patio enclosures and sunrooms are also becoming more popular because they let you enjoy the outdoors year-round. These spaces are great for relaxing or entertaining, making your home feel bigger and more enjoyable.

Boost Energy Efficiency with Replacement Windows

Replacing old windows is a smart upgrade. New, energy-efficient windows make your home more comfortable by blocking drafts and reducing outside noise. Here are some benefits:

• Lower energy bills
• Provide better insulation
• Increase indoor comfort

Update Your Bathroom

Bathrooms are a big focus in 2026. Whether you do a full remodel with luxury fixtures or just update with paint or new tiles, these changes can make your daily routine better and can give your home a spa-like feel.

Create an Inviting Entertainment Space in Your Kitchen

The kitchen is still the heart of the home. Open layouts and big, versatile islands are popular because they make it easier to host guests and handle daily tasks.

You can take on many projects in your kitchen and dining area, from small updates to big changes. Homeowners are upgrading appliances, taking down walls, and adding sunrooms to blend style with function. These updates make the space more useful and help create a warm, welcoming place for family and friends.

Overcoming Common Barriers to Renovation

While the desire to renovate is strong, many people run into challenges. The report says the biggest constraints are not having enough time (25%) and difficulty finding trusted professionals (28%).

Nearly three in ten people delay projects because they can’t find someone reliable to help them get their project started:

Find a Trusted Partner for Your Project

For both smaller and larger projects, it’s critical to select a company you can trust.

• Complete Research: Investigate online for established companies with a proven track record.
• Ask for Referrals: Talk to friends, family, and neighbors about their experiences.
• Check Company Credentials: Ensure they’re licensed, insured, and have positive online reviews.
• Seek Transparency: A reliable partner will provide a clear, detailed process and cost estimate.

Great Day Improvements offers solutions through brands like Patio Enclosures to help you find the right fit. For other projects, explore our partner brands for more options.

How to Finance Your Project and Get Started

Don't let budget concerns stop you from creating your dream home. Homeowners are using various tools to fund their projects, including renovation loans, savings, and special offers.

Many companies offer flexible financing to help you cover renovation costs. Getting a clear cost estimate from your contractor will also help you plan and avoid unexpected expenses.

To see current deals and financing options, visit the Patio Enclosures offers page.

Ready to start your home transformation?

As people focus more on comfort and personal touches, more homeowners are choosing to improve their current homes rather than move. For more ideas, check out our sunrooms and other home improvement services. You can also read the full 2026 State of American Home Renovation Report for more details.

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