Renovation trends of 2026

Renovation trends in 2026 are being driven by cost efficiency, durability, and renter demand—not flashy upgrades that don’t move the needle on rent.

Durable Over Luxury

Investors are shifting away from luxury finishes toward high-performance materials:

• Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring

• Quartz or solid-surface countertops

• Matte black or brushed nickel fixtures

• Simplified cabinetry with modern pulls
  
  

These upgrades photograph well, appeal to tenants, and hold up under rental use.

Energy Efficiency Still Wins

Energy-efficient upgrades continue to deliver strong ROI:

• LED lighting packages

• Programmable thermostats

• Updated insulation and weather sealing
  
  

Lower utility costs attract renters and reduce maintenance calls.

Neutral, Modern Design

2026 design trends lean toward:

• Warm neutrals and soft grays

• Clean lines and minimal trim

• Consistent finishes across units
  
  

Uniformity across a portfolio reduces material costs and speeds up turns.

Exterior and Curb Appeal Matter More Than Ever

First impressions drive leasing speed. Investors are prioritizing:

• Fresh exterior paint or siding repairs

• Clean skirting and decking

• Simple landscaping improvements
  
  

Exterior upgrades often deliver faster leasing at a lower cost than interior overhauls.

Key takeaway: Renovations that balance durability, speed, and tenant appeal outperform high-end finishes every time.