Marketplace All-in-One It's home improvement time
Oct 17, 2025
Mortgage rates have dropped to 6.27%, prompting homeowners to consider renovations rather than moving. Research indicates a rise in home improvement spending could emerge as homeowners look to personalize their spaces. Meanwhile, a segment features insights on regional bank troubles and loan fraud. Lastly, a unique exploration of alternative fats in baking reveals their climate impact, offering a tasty twist with taste tests of innovative croissants.
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Low Rates Shift Homeowner Choices
- Mortgage rates fell to an average of 6.27 percent, which can influence home-buying and renovation math.
- Homeowners locked into ultra-low pandemic rates may prefer renovating rather than moving, boosting remodel demand in 2026.
Remodeling Gains Face Material Cost Headwinds
- Harvard's Joint Center projects home improvement spending will grow next year despite higher material costs.
- Rising construction costs will constrain, but not eliminate, remodeling demand in 2026.
New Buyer Sees Immediate Fixes
- Jamie Katz bought a townhouse outside Chicago and noticed it needed painting right away.
- Katz follows home improvement retailers for Morningstar and uses personal experience to illustrate post-purchase spending.