43% of Home Projects Went Over Budget in 2026: Why
New Angi data says 43% of home projects went over budget this year — and only 8% came in under. Here’s why estimates slip and how to protect your budget.
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.
Labor Day Weekend Home Projects: The 2026 Booking Window
A new survey shows why Labor Day weekend home projects spike — and why 2026’s long weekend is the best time in months to lock in a pro before fall.
US–Canada Trade War: What Sept 8 Means for Your Reno
A 50% US tariff on Canadian plywood, doors and cement hit Aug 22; Canada fires back Sept 8. How tariffs on renovation costs land in both countries.
The Toolbelt Generation: Gen Z Is Choosing the Trades
The toolbelt generation is real: HVAC program enrollment is up 16.7% this year and Canadian apprenticeships hit a record. What it means for your next repair.
Wildfire Home Hardening in 2026: The Late-August Checklist
Wildfire home hardening pays off most in the last stretch of fire season. 2026 is running 185% of average — here’s the weekend checklist and what pros charge.
Labor Day Appliance Sales Start Now: The Install Catch
Labor Day appliance sales kick off this week with 20–40% off — but delivery, installation and haul-away can quietly erase the discount. Here’s how to plan it.
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.
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.