Chef’s kitchens and spa-like bathrooms once drove home sales. Not anymore. Homeowners are shifting to upgrades that make life easier, safer, and more sustainable. Accessibility, climate resilience, and preventative maintenance are leading the way.
According to Angi’s 2025 State of Home Spending Pulse Report, 71% of homeowners are prioritizing preventative maintenance to avoid costlier repairs later, and 62% are more concerned about affording maintenance than they were at the end of 2024. That change is shaping which projects matter most.
Accessibility Moves Up the List
Aging in place and multi-generational living interior design trends push accessibility into focus for many families. Homeowners look to install accessible kitchens, bathrooms, and layouts that work now and adapt to the future.
"At Fabuwood, we design with accessibility and longevity in mind. Features like ADA-compliant base cabinets make kitchens more functional for wheelchair users and support homeowners who want to age in place safely and gracefully," shared Moses Brach, Head of A&D Partnerships at Fabuwood.
He added, "We know homeowners and designers are increasingly looking for solutions as aging in place becomes a reality for many, which is why we focus on timeless elements — neutral palettes, clean lines — that feel current today and for years to come."
Updates gaining traction include:
- Accessible first-floor main bedrooms
- ADA-compliant cabinets and hardware
- Outdoor handrails and safety systems
- Low-maintenance yards and landscapes
"Features like thoughtfully designed cabinet pulls can bring both comfort and style to everyday living," noted Peter Wells, Senior Principal Designer at Amerock Hardware. "[These details bridge] the gap between accessibility and modern aesthetics."
If you're shopping for solutions for your home remodeling project, follow advice published in the ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG).
And when it comes to finishing touches, remember that brands like Amerock have created ADA-Friendly hardware, like U-shaped pulls designed to reduce strain and improve daily ease.
Low-Maintenance Exteriors
Durability is now just as important as curb appeal. Homeowners want siding and exterior materials that resist weather damage and require less upkeep.
“As the housing market remains uncertain, homeowners are increasingly choosing to invest in practical upgrades that deliver both aesthetic impact and long-term resilience, without the disruption of moving,” says Leah Buchanan, Director of Product Management, Vinyl Siding at CertainTeed. “While replacing a home’s siding is a larger undertaking, it is a top upgrade for return on investment, offering a refreshed exterior while improving the home’s climate resiliency and structural integrity.”
Low-maintenance siding options like Glen-Gery's SK1N and CertainTeed’s CERTAplank®, Cedar Impressions®, and vertical Board & Batten reduce long-term costs for homeowners.
Home Hardening for Extreme Weather
Extreme weather is no longer rare, and home remodeling trends highlight a shift in material choices. More homeowners are making upgrades for resilience and weatherproofing to protect their investment and improve safety.
Projects that improve durability include:
- Impact-resistant, energy-efficient windows
- Advanced insulation that reduces heat loss and improves comfort
- Downspouts that direct water away from the foundation
- Weather-resistant siding that stands up to wind, rain, and heat
When it comes time to improve your exterior, keep this information in mind:
- Class 4 impact ratings against hail damage
- Class A roofing material and Type X gypsum to help limit the spreading of wildfire flames.
- Class F is a wind rating for products that withstand winds up to 110 mph.
Rethinking Kitchens and Baths
Kitchens and bathrooms remain important but are no longer the automatic focus for sellers. The trend is toward functional, sustainable, and low-maintenance design.
The goal is less about luxury and more about creating spaces that work for everyday life while adding long-term value.
Expect to see more:
- Eco-friendly cabinets, countertops, and finishes. Sustainable materials continue to be popular.
- Smart home technology like voice-controlled lighting
- Energy-efficient appliances and LED fixtures
- Neutral, timeless palettes that last
- Easy-clean surfaces and durable flooring
- Walk-in showers
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Energy-efficient homes are in demand as more people look to lower utility bills and reduce environmental impact. Sustainable upgrades are becoming standard, not optional.
Popular energy-efficient upgrades:
- Solar panels and green roofing
- Smart thermostats for better energy control
- Heated floors for comfort and efficiency
- LED lighting throughout the home
- Walk-in pantries that support better food storage
- Wellness spaces for fitness and relaxation
- Multifunctional rooms that adapt to changing needs
The Big Picture
Home improvement spending is shifting, not slowing. Instead of luxury remodels, homeowners are prioritizing accessibility, energy efficiency, and weatherproofing.
These changes reflect today’s realities: aging populations, unpredictable weather, higher labor costs, and tighter budgets. Homes built with low-maintenance materials, smart technology, and sustainable upgrades are the ones best prepared for the years ahead.
