The “-BER” months are now here, football fields are busy on the weekends, days seem shorter, and evenings are cooler. September, October, and November are also great months for the residential remodeling industry. If you are considering a kitchen remodel or bath renovation project, here are six reasons why right now may be the best time of the year to start that process.
Contractors’ calendars open up after the spring/summer rush. While most contractors are still booked with jobs, the schedule just isn’t as intense during the fall. Planning is certainly still required, but certain projects may come together more rapidly in the fall vs other times of the year. Contractors’ schedules being more flexible this time of year should provide additional availability for consultations and coordinating with your busy schedule.
As the barometer drops, so does the demand for key building materials. NAHB Market Data noted that lumber prices dropped in late summer 2025, creating cost-saving opportunities. This should help costs for framing, sub flooring and finish carpentry on projects that are planned in the fall.
Going hand in hand with the demand for lumber, there was also a five year low for permits being submitted in the summer of 2025. So, what does that mean for you? With spring being the crazy season in the remodeling industry, a slow summer indicates that the permit process should be quite rapid during the fall. Planning your project now will put you in a position to beat the spring rush with your local municipalities building department – saving time and ultimately money.
Outside of allergies and perhaps an unplanned brisk morning, there is not too much to complain about when the fall months arrive. Summer’s heat is shifting out and winter storms aren’t here yet. The calm weather helps with logistics for materials that are being shipped, with very few delays to be expected. Additionally, productivity seems to improve as temperatures are not extremely hot or cold. I was always more pleasant on a job site in the fall vs in an attic on a hot summer’s day or cutting ice cold material in a garage in January.
Fall also brings major retail sales. If you are planning a kitchen remodel and getting new appliances, keep your eye out for sales on items that you may be interested in. Additionally, as manufacturers bring in their new lines for the next year – plumbing fixtures and lighting will also go on sale. This is very similar to the automotive industry, as the sales really are in the fall, not at the end of the year. This is a great opportunity to extend your budget and incorporate some great finishes into your new space.
Depending on the scope of your project, you may have some new energy-star rated appliances, insulation, HVAC components, windows or more. With winter looming, feeling a noticeable difference in the space is certainly welcome, but that isn’t the only positive aspect. It could just be me, but it seems as if all utility bills are growing for seemingly no reason. Electing to use energy efficient materials and practices should help combat those ever-growing bills.
The world seems to slow down a bit in the fall. Investing in your home requires time and planning. Don’t let the calendar turn yet again without making your home finally work for you and your family’s needs. If you are considering a kitchen or bath project for your home, take advantage of the opportunities the season brings in the residential remodeling industry – we’re here to help!
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