Get ready for bold, colourful spaces with smart and safe tech.

Ready to start nesting for the new year? Zillow's home trends for 2026 are all about creating cozy spaces that are vibrant and full of personality. 

"Listing descriptions are short, so every word counts," said Amanda Pendleton, Zillow's home trends expert, in a press release. "When we see a sharp increase in certain features being mentioned, whether it's spa-inspired bathrooms or bespoke artisan craftsmanship, it's a clear signal that these details are capturing buyers' attention right now and hint at what's next in home design."

Home trends for 2026

1. Colourful & Dramatic

We started talking about colour drenching in 2024, and now the dramatic paint trend is finally making it's way into the average home. Mentions of this design choice, and ones like colour capping, increased by 149 percent since last year, with buyers looking for bold and immersive experiences.

2. Cozy Reading Nooks

Home is for recharging, and owners are doing that by carving out small spaces in the home meant for getting cozy. Whether its a reading nook under the stairs or a comfy chair in the corner of a bedroom, reading nooks are appearing in 48 percent more listings on Zillow.

3. Sustainable Housing

Need an electric vehicle charger? This keyword is appearing 25 percent more in listings this year over last. There is also an increase in people looking for zero-energy-ready homes and eco-conscious characteristics, like batteries.

4. Wellness at home

Whether it's a spa-like bathroom or a basement sauna, buyers are looking fore wellness amenities in the home for 2026. Like the cozy ready nook trend, these type of spaces are about creating a relaxing environment.

5. It's all about sports

Say goodbye to the man cave! Sports are taking over the home, with listings mentioning pickleball courts and golf simulators growing by 25 percent each. Another popular activity to play at home? Baseball. Homes listing batting cages are up 18 percent.

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