A Major Shift in Home Improvement Trends for 2024
Chef's kitchens and spa-like bathrooms used to sell homes. Not anymore. Gear up for the latest in home improvement projects that'll differentiate your home from the rest.
"The features that sell a home in 2024 will be related to accessibility and how 'weather-proof' the home is," shares Jon Bostock, a former GE executive and current CEO of Leaf Home. "Aging baby boomers want homes with low-maintenance outdoor spaces, accessible first-floor main bedrooms, and safety features like outdoor handrails."
He adds, "Other homebuyers are looking for 'home hardening' features that protect the home from the growing threat of extreme weather like wildfires, hurricanes, and floods. This includes state-of-the-art windows, better insulation, and downspouts that channel water away from a home’s foundation to avoid basement water damage."
This isn't to say that the remodeling industry is going to take a hit, but there'll be a clear shift in priorities for homeowners as renovation trends shift to align with the aging demographic.
Accessibility Takes Center Stage
The once-coveted kitchens and bathroom remodels are no longer the primary drivers for home sales. Instead, more and more remodeling projects will focus on accessibility and functionality to enhance quality of life.
Buyers are increasingly seeking residences with low-maintenance yards and landscapes with materials that require minimal upkeep
Durable siding materials that resist the impact of weather elements and landscaping choices requiring less water and maintenance are gaining traction.
Increased demand for safety systems, such as outdoor handrails
Accessible first-floor main bedrooms to support changing mobility needs
Premier Outdoor Living
Home Hardening for Extreme Weather
Another noteworthy trend is the rise of "home hardening" features. With the escalating threats of extreme weather events like wildfires, hurricanes, and floods, homeowners of all demographics are prioritizing measures to protect their properties.
State-of-the-art windows
Advanced insulation solutions
Strategic downspouts that efficiently channel water away from the foundation
Related: Smart Lighting Trends for 2024
Choosing Practical Improvements Over High-Interest Loans
In contrast to previous years, there's a noticeable decline in sellers opting for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. The traditional belief is that these areas are the primary influencers for home sales, but the real estate and home improvement industry is giving way to a more pragmatic mindset. Boomers are more focused on creating spaces that make it easier to age in place.
The shift in investments isn't just for older homeowners, though. "Those who bought starter homes during the pandemic and locked in low-interest rates have no incentive to move anytime soon," reminds Bostock. "We’ll see young homeowners invest in remodeling or significant maintenance projects they previously ignored, thinking they might not stay long."
When homeowners do invest in renovation projects for indoor spaces, expect to see a shift that favors sustainable and eco-friendly materials, low-maintenance finishes, efficient light fixtures, quality building materials, and smart technology.
Photo by BENCE BOROS on Unsplash
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Within the broader theme of weatherproofing, a sub-trend gaining momentum is the integration of energy-efficient and sustainable materials and features.
Homeowners are increasingly inclined towards eco-friendly solutions, including solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and green roofing materials as a way to improve their carbon footprint.
Related: Leaf Home Predicts 2024 Trend in Home Water Filtration Systems
They're also favoring popular projects that'll result in energy savings and long-term convenience:
Smart thermostats
Wellness spaces
Heated floors
Walk-in pantries
LED lighting
Entertainment add-ons
Investments in multifunctional spaces
To recap, expect a departure from traditional home improvement spending and watch for an added focus on accessibility, weather-proofing, and sustainable living. These emerging trends reflect a strategic response to the evolving needs and concerns of homeowners in an era defined by shifting climate patterns and an aging population.
