2026: The Year of the Great Renovation Surge
Noticed a parade of contractor trucks rolling through your neighborhood lately? You’re not imagining things. Even though it’s only mid-January, we’re already seeing the first wave of what’s shaping up to be a major surge in home renovations… something the experts have been forecasting for quite some time.
Recently, Marvin Ellison, CEO of Lowe’s, predicted a big upswing in home improvement for 2026. This isn’t just a gut feeling. Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS) has the data to back it up, pointing to a market that’s finally finding its footing and growing at a steady, sustainable pace.
The Great Renovation Surge
In RVA, we’re watching this trend unfold right before our eyes. But what’s driving so many folks to renovate now… and what does it actually mean for your home’s value?
The “Everyone is Doing It” Factor
Remodeling is quickly becoming the new alternative to moving. The aforementioned Harvard study points out that over half of U.S. homes were built before 1980, and we’re reaching a point where these houses need more than just a fresh coat of paint: they’re aging structures, and they need a craftsman’s touch to keep them safe and comfortable.
And, it’s also true that there’s a bit of a domino effect at play. When your neighbors start upgrading their kitchens and adding master suites, it quietly raises the bar for everyone else. Soon, more and more homeowners will decide to invest in their current homes rather than roll the dice in today’s unpredictable real estate market.
The Seller’s Dilemma: Keeping Your “Comp Value” Competitive
If you’re considering selling in the next few years, this renovation wave is a complication. With many of your neighbors updating, the bar for what counts as “move-in ready” will definitely be raised.
If the folks next door are putting in custom kitchens or swapping out old windows for high-performance models, your “as-is” home may start to lag behind in the eyes of buyers.
Today’s buyers are sharp, and they look past the surface and want to see that the structure is solid, the wood rot is addressed, and the home’s bones are in good shape. Skipping these essential repairs today can mean leaving a lot of money on the table when it’s time to sell.
Diagnostic Expertise: Solving the “Why” Before the “How”
Whether renovating for your own personal comfort, or just to stay competitive in the market, the approach is the same: a diagnostic one.
It’s easy to get excited about the “pretty” upgrades and overlook what I call structural disease: that slow, sneaky water intrusion behind a fascia board or under a window sill that rots out a major structural component.
Not to mention: in Richmond’s classic colonials and ranches, (many built before 1978), disturbing old trim or siding can also mean dealing with lead-based paint. This is where a professional, RRP-certified approach isn’t just smart, it’s required for your family’s safety.
As an RRP-certified team, we make sure your home is not only ready for the 2026 lifestyle or market, but that every repair and upgrade is done safely and by the book.
Planning Your Path in a Busy Year
With this surge underway, the squeeze on resources is real. Lead times are stretching out, and the best craftspeople are booking up fast. If you’re looking around your home and wondering if you’re falling behind, here’s what we recommend:
Don’t Wait for the “Perfect” Moment.
The surge is already here, and material costs are unlikely to drop anytime soon.
Start with the Essentials.
Bring in a professional handyman to tackle caulking, gutter leaks, and rot repairs now. These small fixes pay “maintenance dividends” that help protect your home’s value for the long haul.
Think Long-Term.
If you’re staying, build for your life. If you’re selling, build to ensure you aren’t the “fixer-upper” in a neighborhood of renovated gems.
Let’s Get to Work in 2026!
There are no absolutes in remodeling, but one thing is clear: 2026 is shaping up to be the year to invest in your home’s quality and durability. Whether you’re tackling a small repair or planning a major expansion, we’re here to help you find the right solution for your goals. Get in touch with the HomeMasons team today, and let’s get to work.
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