Staying on top of industry news, any time of year is important. However, With the year coming to a close, many are starting to see trends that may affect business in the coming year. Home building and remodeling is on the rise, which is good news for pros in 2017.

Winter is here and we have new headlines you need to know. Here’s the top news for December 2016.

Current trends predict pros will be busy in the new year. Do you want more business in 2017? Sign up with CraftJack today to start receiving leads from homeowners in your area.

Home Remodeling At High Demand

Good news for remodeling pros, a Q3 Metrostudy report shows a 4.3% increase in home remodeling from 2016. The study reports that remodeling pros are having trouble keeping up with the demand, even into the winter season. This could be due to the abnormal warmer fall weather across the nation or the influx of new home sales. Whatever the reason, pros will be busy!

New Home Building On The Rise

Demand for new homes is rising as construction of single-family residences were at its highest since 2007, according to U.S. News. Millennials are making larger moves while mortgage rates are low. This news comes as new home construction has been increasing in previous years. Additionally, applications for building permits are on the rise, which is a great sign for remodeling pros as they begin to plan for future projects.

New Buyers Seek Existing Homes

Due to these low mortgage rates, as previously reported above, experts are predicting existing home sales to rise to record levels as new homeowners now see the opportunity to buy. Business Insider reports historically low mortgage rates, despite a changing political climate. With existing home sales rising, this is a trend that will continue into early 2017. These sales mean more work for pros, as new homeowners look to have things fixed and remodeled to their taste.

Kitchen Trends In America

Though you may be doing the work that needs to be done, it’s important to stay current on design and remodeling trends. This is a great way to go the extra mile for your customer and provide exceptional service. It’s no secret that kitchen remodeling is in demand, but according to Realtor.com, the kitchen is the home’s most valuable room. Per their research, 69% of the rooms mentioned on for sale listings include the kitchen as the selling point. Forty-one percent of those listings say the cabinetry is the top feature of a kitchen.

If you’re looking to build better relationships with your customers, you can help their kitchen project by sharing advice if needed. It shows your expertise in the subject and it reinforces their trust that you are the best for the job.

OSHA Updates Fall Protection Guidelines

Safety on the job is a top priority for both you and your employees. Therefore, being aware of the latest safety guidelines and rules is necessary. New OSHA standards for fall protection will go into effect January 17, 2017. The new rule ensures training on fall hazards, ladder safety and finding fall-protection systems that work best, rather than abiding by a standard. This new rule is particularly important for roofing pros, where fall hazards are more likely to happen if proper precautions are not taken.

To create an overall safer work environment for all, be sure to keep your job site clean, wear protective gear and always have first aid on hand for anything accidents that may happen. Adhere to OSHA guidelines and stay up to date on any new rules passed.

Conclusion

As 2016 wraps up, we can see that the construction industry is ending the year strong. Construction of new homes is exceeding predictions and new home buyers are on the move. Stay tuned for 2017 home remodeling predictions!

Looking for more headlines and news from the year? Read A Year In Review: 2016 Industry Trends.