Four out of five homeowners who completed home maintenance projects in the past year still paid a professional for at least one home service, according to Hiri. This reveals a crucial shift in the home improvement market for 2026: a blend of self-sufficiency and professional reliance. The percentage of homeowners using both DIY and contractors rose from 20% in 2024 to 24% in 2025, according to Hardware Retailing.

Homeowners actively engage in DIY maintenance projects, but they simultaneously increase their reliance on professional services for specific tasks. This isn't a simple DIY-or-pro choice; it's a nuanced approach to home upkeep. This tension now defines the market.

The home improvement market will likely see continued growth in hybrid service models. Retailers and service providers must cater to a consumer who blends self-sufficiency with professional expertise. This shift demands specialized, not generalized, professional services.

The Enduring Appeal of DIY and the Market's Scale

  • The home improvement market was estimated at 936.67 USD Billion in 2024, according to Market Research Future. This immense market size proves widespread consumer engagement.
  • 44% of homeowners tackled a home maintenance project over the past year, Hiri reports. These figures confirm DIY remains a powerful force, laying the groundwork for the emerging hybrid model.

Why Professionals Are Still Essential

Two-thirds to three-fourths of jobs in technical categories like HVAC, pest control, plumbing, and electrical are completed by a professional, according to Hiri. This reveals the limits of typical DIY capabilities; specialized skills are non-negotiable here. Middle-income seniors, largely Baby Boomers, invest approximately $6,500 annually in professional home services, Hiri states.

These facts show complexity, specialized skills, and specific demographic needs drive professional engagement, even among active homeowners. Businesses neglecting this demographic's need for reliable, specialized assistance miss a significant, stable revenue stream.