Renovation Financing in 2026: A Fall Window Opens
Mortgage rates are slipping and HELOC costs keep falling — why fall 2026 may be the renovation financing window homeowners have waited for.
News & Views
Welcome to News & Views, where we bring you the latest news and insights in skilled trades. Stay informed with current events, industry updates, and expert perspectives on the world of skilled work.
New Home Construction Slump: What It Means for Your Reno
US housing starts hit a 4-year low in July and Canada’s fell 19% — what the new home construction slump means for homeowners hiring a contractor now.
Home Depot & Lowe’s Say It: 2026 Is the Year of Small Fixes
Home Depot and Lowe’s Q2 results show small home repairs winning while big remodels stall. What the ‘frozen’ housing market means for your next fix-it job.
Home Service Prices Keep Climbing: What Q2 2026 Data Shows
New Q2 2026 data shows home service prices still climbing — invoices up 8%+ in some trades — even as homeowners keep booking. What it means for your next quote.
HVAC Prices Are Rising Again: What the August Hikes Mean
Another HVAC price increase wave hit in August 2026 — up to 7% on equipment, 25% on some parts. What it means for your repair-or-replace decision.
Home Depot Express Delivery: Parts in 3 Hours or Less
Home Depot express delivery now brings parts to your door in 3 hours or less. What it means for DIY fixes, contractors, and your next repair.
Home Improvement Scams Are Surging: 2026 Red Flags
Nearly 1 in 10 Americans has been hit by a home improvement scam, median loss $1,800. The red flags and how to protect your deposit in 2026.
Fall Home Maintenance: Why Mid-August Is the Time to Book
72% of contractors are raising rates in 2026 — book fall home maintenance in the late-August lull, before the post-Labor Day rush hits.
DIY Is Fading: Why Home Depot and Lowe’s Now Bet on Pros
DIY fell from 48% to 39% of home projects in a year. Inside the DIY decline — and the billions Home Depot and Lowe’s are betting on pros instead.
Home Improvement Spending in 2026: Skip It or Go Big
New data shows home improvement spending splitting in 2026: 30% of homeowners plan to cut back while active projects double in size. Here’s your window.