Top 10 Home Improvement Resolutions for Salt Lake Valley Homeowners in 2026

New year, new home goals! If you're like most Salt Lake Valley homeowners, you're probably looking at your house right now thinking, "This is the year I finally tackle that project." Whether you're in Herriman, Sandy, Bountiful, or anywhere across the Wasatch Front, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for home improvements.

As licensed B100 General Contractors who manage and coordinate all required trades across Salt Lake, Davis, Wasatch, Summit, and Tooele counties, we've seen the trends emerging for 2026: and they're all about creating spaces that work harder, look better, and add real value to your life. Here are the top 10 home improvement resolutions that will make your Salt Lake Valley home shine this year.

Resolution #1: Transform Your Basement Into a Multi-Functional Powerhouse

Basement finishing is projected to be one of the fastest-growing home improvement investments in 2026, and Utah homeowners are leading the charge. Your basement doesn't have to be just storage space: it can become the heart of your home.

Think flexible layouts that transition from movie nights to kids' playtime, with defined corners for reading, homework, or crafting. The key is creating spaces that evolve with your family's needs. A finished basement often recoups a significant portion of its cost (commonly 50–60%) depending on scope and code compliance. This can significantly boost your resale appeal, making it a smart investment for Herriman and Sandy homeowners looking to maximize their property value.

Resolution #2: Create a Multigenerational Living Suite

With housing costs continuing to rise across the Salt Lake Valley, multigenerational living is becoming increasingly common. This year, consider converting part of your home into a comfortable suite for aging parents or adult children.

The most requested features include private bathrooms, kitchenettes, wider doorways for accessibility, and independent entrances. Whether it's a basement conversion in West Valley City or an addition in Riverton, these suites provide privacy while keeping families close. It's a resolution that pays dividends in both family harmony and home value.

Resolution #3: Design Your Personal Wellness Retreat

2026 is all about bringing the spa experience home. Utah homeowners are prioritizing wellness spaces more than ever, and your home can become your sanctuary.

Consider creating a basement gym with rubber flooring and mirrored walls, a yoga and meditation room with calming colors, or even installing an infrared sauna. Primary bathroom renovations are trending toward spa-like experiences with rainfall showers, heated floors, and calming, nature-inspired color palettes. It's not just luxury: it's investing in your daily well-being.

Resolution #4: Embrace Smart Home Technology That Actually Works

Smart home upgrades in 2026 aren't just about having the latest gadgets: they're about creating systems that genuinely improve your daily life. Focus on practical additions that boost convenience and home value.

Start with smart lighting systems you can control with your phone or voice, independent climate zoning where your HVAC system supports it for different areas of your home, and integrated security features. For basement renovations, consider built-in audio and visual systems that create the perfect entertainment space. These upgrades are especially popular with tech-savvy homeowners in Sandy and Herriman.

Resolution #5: Upgrade Your Kitchen with Natural, Timeless Styling

Kitchen remodels continue to be one of the highest-value home improvements, and 2026 trends are leaning toward natural tones and warm finishes that create timeless appeal. Think beyond trendy colors that might feel dated in five years.

Focus on quality materials like natural stone countertops, warm wood tones, and fixtures in brushed gold or matte black finishes. Utah Valley homeowners are choosing designs that feel both modern and cozy: perfect for our family-focused culture. The goal is creating a space that looks magazine-worthy but feels like home.

Resolution #6: Boost Your Home's Exterior Durability and Curb Appeal

Utah's climate can be tough on homes, especially with our temperature swings and occasional severe weather. This year, prioritize exterior improvements that protect your investment while making your home the envy of the neighborhood.

Key projects include updating siding, improving insulation, refreshing exterior paint, and upgrading your front entrance. These improvements directly address buyer pain points if you ever decide to sell, and they can significantly shorten time on market. For immediate impact, consider a new front door, updated lighting, and professional landscaping that works with Utah's climate.

Resolution #7: Incorporate Natural Materials and Textures

2026 design trends are embracing organic minimalism with rich, textural elements. This means incorporating materials like natural stone, reclaimed wood, and authentic brick into your home's design.

Popular choices include luxury vinyl plank flooring that mimics real wood, stone accent walls, and brick features in basements or living areas. Pair these natural textures with neutral color palettes and rich accent colors like deep greens and navy blues. The result is a home that feels both sophisticated and grounded in nature: perfect for the Utah lifestyle.

Resolution #8: Make Energy Efficiency a Priority

With utility costs rising, energy-efficient upgrades are becoming essential for Salt Lake Valley homeowners. These improvements pay for themselves over time while making your home more comfortable year-round.

Focus on upgrading to LED lighting throughout your home, improving insulation in attics and basements, sealing air leaks around windows and doors, and considering energy-efficient windows if your current ones are aging. For larger projects, heat pump systems and smart thermostats can dramatically reduce heating and cooling costs: especially important during Utah's hot summers and cold winters.

Resolution #9: Create Specialty Spaces That Reflect Your Interests

Gone are the days of generic room labels. In 2026, homeowners are creating spaces tailored to their specific hobbies and interests. Whether it's a craft room, home office, music studio, or reading nook, dedicated spaces make your home work better for your lifestyle.

Basement conversions are perfect for these specialty spaces because they offer privacy and flexibility. Consider soundproofing for music rooms, extra electrical outlets for craft spaces, or built-in storage for hobby supplies. These personalized touches make your home truly yours while adding unique selling points for the future.

Resolution #10: Plan for Professional Project Management

Here's the resolution that ties everything together: commit to working with licensed, insured professionals for your major home improvements. Too many Utah homeowners learn the hard way that DIY projects can quickly become expensive mistakes.

As B100 General Contractors, we handle projects and coordinate everything from permits to final cleanup, ensuring your projects are done right the first time. Whether you're planning a kitchen remodel in Magna, a bathroom renovation in Bountiful, or a basement finish in Riverton, professional project management saves time, money, and stress.

Making Your Resolutions Reality

The best home improvement resolutions are specific, realistic, and aligned with your budget and timeline. Start by prioritizing projects that offer the biggest impact on your daily life and home value. Safety and structural improvements should always come first, followed by upgrades that enhance your family's comfort and enjoyment.

Remember, you don't have to tackle everything at once. Many successful home improvement journeys start with one well-executed project that builds momentum for the next. Whether you're planning a major renovation or simple updates, having a licensed contractor assess your home can help you prioritize projects and budget effectively.

Your Handyman Pros serve homeowners throughout Salt Lake, Davis, Wasatch, Summit, and Tooele counties with full project management, coordination of all trades, and the peace of mind that comes with working with licensed, insured B100 General Contractors. From small repairs to complete home transformations, we're here to help make your 2026 home improvement resolutions a reality.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss which resolution should be first on your list. Here's to making 2026 the year your house becomes everything you've dreamed it could be!