Preparing for the Golden Age of Remodeling: Why 2025 Could Be Your Best Year to Upgrade Your Home
The home improvement industry is on the brink of something unprecedented. By the second half of 2025, growth is expected to accelerate, leading into what Todd described as a potential “Golden Age of Remodeling” in 2026-2027, with double-digit annual increases in remodeling activity. This surge is driven by several converging factors that smart homeowners should understand and prepare for now.
The Perfect Storm for Home Improvement
In the past 24 months, there have been more new net accounts added to access ‘Home Equity’ (HELOCs + Cash-Out) than in the previous 12 years combined. However, while homeowners are setting up these credit lines, they have not yet withdrawn the funds – suggesting a strong pent-up demand for home renovations that has yet to materialize. This indicates that homeowners are financially positioning themselves for major improvements but waiting for the right moment to act.
Many home improvement projects have been delayed due to economic constraints, particularly among middle-income households. Once conditions stabilize, this deferred demand is expected to create a surge in activity. The combination of rising home equity, potential interest rate relief, and years of postponed projects creates an ideal environment for a remodeling boom.
What This Means for Missouri Homeowners
For residents of Northwest Missouri, this trend presents both opportunities and challenges. Homeowners frustrated with their current living conditions (due to mortgage rate lock-in effects) may choose renovation over relocation, further boosting demand. This is particularly relevant in areas like Buchanan County, where homeowners are increasingly investing in their current properties rather than moving.
The key trigger will be interest rates. Homeowners are likely waiting for interest rate stabilization before tapping into their home equity. If rates fall below 6%, this could trigger a wave of remodeling projects as homeowners unlock financing. When this happens, demand for skilled contractors and quality materials will skyrocket.
Essential Home Systems to Prioritize
While homeowners wait for optimal financing conditions, industry experts recommend focusing on essential, non-discretionary improvements. Focus on essential, non-discretionary work (HVAC, roofing, windows, water heaters) while waiting for big-ticket discretionary spending to return. These improvements not only maintain your home’s value but also prevent costly emergency repairs later.
Gutters fall squarely into this essential category. A properly functioning gutter system protects your home’s foundation, prevents water damage, and maintains your property’s structural integrity. For homeowners in Buchanan County and surrounding areas, working with a reliable Gutter Company Buchanan County, MO ensures your home is protected before the remodeling surge begins.
Current Market Conditions and Trends
Homeowners spent $472 billion on home renovations in the third quarter of 2024, and projections indicate these expenditures will increase by $5 billion by the third quarter of 2025, according to the JCHS of Harvard University. This steady growth is building toward the anticipated boom.
Of the nearly 50% of homeowners who plan to renovate in 2025, more than 80% will do so in the spring and summer, according to our survey. Bathrooms and kitchens are the most common spaces homeowners plan to renovate. This seasonal concentration means contractors will be busiest during these peak months.
Design Trends Shaping the Golden Age
The coming remodeling boom isn’t just about quantity—it’s about quality and intentionality. By far the word we hear the most from designers lately when it comes to interior trends is “warmth.” Warm tones, warm woods, warm and welcoming spaces — homeowners are craving warmth. You see this manifest in a shift from cool whites and grays to warm off-whites, tans, beiges and creams.
Bromley has been seeing an uptick in home spas, saunas, and general wellness areas, saying that there’s both a renewed interest and scientific backing behind many of these latest home wellness trends. “Whether it’s an infrared sauna, a steam, or a cold plunge, not only can these spaces be aesthetically pleasing but they act as a retreat and respite from the outside world,” she says.
How to Prepare for the Surge
Contractors who prepare now – by strengthening their labor force, streamlining operations, and adapting to shifting consumer buying habits – will be in the best position to capitalize on the opportunities ahead. Similarly, homeowners should prepare by:
- Securing financing options early, before rates potentially drop and demand surges
- Completing essential maintenance now, before contractors become overwhelmed
- Researching and vetting contractors during slower periods
- Planning projects in advance to avoid delays during peak demand
The Bottom Line
Be prepared for a potential surge in mid-to-late 2025, especially if interest rates ease. Watch home equity withdrawal trends – they will signal when homeowners start investing in major projects. The Golden Age of Remodeling represents a unique opportunity for homeowners to enhance their properties, but success will depend on preparation and timing.
For Northwest Missouri homeowners, now is the time to assess your home’s essential systems, plan your improvements, and establish relationships with trusted contractors. Whether you’re considering a major renovation or simply maintaining your home’s critical systems, taking action before the surge ensures you’ll be ready to capitalize on this unprecedented period of home improvement activity.