News Briefs
A roundup of local and national headlines covering timely industry subjects
By: Ku‘u Home Magazine
Jul 1, 2026
Take Your Comfort Zone Outside
A national report shows homeowners are investing in outdoor living upgrades as necessities, not optional amenities
Hawai‘i residents have long been aware that well-maintained decks, patios, lānai, backyards and even garages can extend a home’s livable square footage outside. The 2026 U.S. Houzz Outdoor Trends Study notes that this concept is making its way to the national mainstream — survey responses from more than 1,100 U.S. homeowners show a change in perception to prioritize outdoor living for greater quality of life.
“Homeowners are investing in outdoor renovations with long-term lifestyle goals in mind,” said Marine Sargsyan, head of economic research at Houzz, in a press release. “We’re seeing a shift away from resale-driven upgrades toward spaces that support everyday routines and blur the lines between indoors and out, from outdoor dining and cooking to reading retreats and lounge areas. As these outdoor spaces become more personalized and multifunctional, homeowners are increasingly turning to professionals to help bring their vision to life.”
According to the report, 83% of the homeowners say they have dedicated outdoor lounge or seating spots. Outside areas for dining, reflection and reading, gardening and cooking rank among the top purposeful spaces as well. More homeowners are seeking professional involvement in outdoor renovations — now 71% of respondents vs. 65% in a 2024 poll — and represent a focus on higher-ticket projects for functional outdoor systems over DIY decorating.
A breakdown of stats on outdoor kitchens reveals an appreciation for these entertaining hubs to be used regularly instead of occasionally. Roughly 95% of homeowners surveyed say they embarked on outdoor kitchen projects from scratch — additional numbers note 68% are investing in infrastructure upgrades for plumbing, electrical and heating systems, and 37% in storage.
Most homeowners (85%) have grills in their outdoor kitchens. General cooktops (36%), pizza ovens (29%), and smokers or deep fryers (24%) are among other popular culinary additions. Refrigerators (62%), sinks (59%) and TVs (38%) are also listed as outdoor living must-haves.
View the full report at houzz.com.
Honolulu City and County Launches Loan Programs for Homeownership and Home Improvement
In June, the Honolulu City and County Department of Community Services announced their new Down Payment Loan Program and Rehabilitation Loan Program. Both initiatives offer financial assistance for qualifying households earning 80% or less of O‘ahu’s Area Median Income.
First-time homebuyers can apply for up to $40,000 toward the purchase of a home through the Down Payment Loan Program at a zero-percent interest rate with no loan fees and a 20-year repayment term. Awardees must complete a City-approved homebuyer education course.
Current owner-occupant homeowners can apply for zero-interest loans up to $300,000 from the Rehabilitation Loan Program to address their home’s structural and safety issues. Roof replacements, electrical rewiring, plumbing repairs and accessibility improvements qualify.
“We’re creating opportunities for local residents to put down roots, build stability and stay in the communities that make Oʻahu special,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi in a press release.
Learn more at https://www.honolulu.gov/dcs/dcs-cad-loan-programs-for-homeowners/.
Check Out the UHERO Hawai‘i Housing Factbook
The University of Hawai‘i Economic Research Organization (UHERO) recently released its 2026 Hawai‘i Housing Factbook with reports on cost-of-living fluctuations, real estate market analyses and what’s new in residential construction policies and permitting.
“Despite enormous challenges, in the past year, the housing market has shown some signs of moving towards improved affordability,” the report’s introduction notes. “Home prices have leveled off, ending a decade-long appreciation run. Stable prices, combined with gradually rising incomes and falling interest rates, have put more local residents in a position to afford housing. However, these improvements are tempered by a difficult home insurance market and high homeowners association fees.”
Download the full report at uhero.hawaii.edu.
Stay Ready for an Active Hurricane Season
August and September have historically been the most active months during Hawai‘i’s hurricane seasons, and state officials remind residents to keep up with emergency kits and home infrastructure improvements for disaster resiliency. Find preparedness tips and links to emergency alert apps at dod.hawaii.gov/hiema/hurricane.
This story appears in the July/August 2026 print issue of Ku‘u Home magazine.