The 2026 BHGRE Real Estate Home Trends Are Here
Every year, Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate (BHGRE) releases a national trend report that gives us a pulse on how people want to live, what features are shaping their decisions, and what design elements truly help a home feel like a home. This year’s report is one of the strongest I’ve seen — and as an accredited BHGRE Trendmaker, I get to bring these insights directly into how I advise clients, prepare listings, and help buyers find the home that feels like the right next chapter.
And here’s what’s especially interesting: Portland was already ahead of many of these trends!
Our city’s architecture, lifestyle values, and micro-markets have been moving in this direction for years — and in 2026, the rest of the country is catching up.
Across neighborhoods like Sellwood, Woodstock, Laurelhurst, Milwaukie, and the West Hills, I’m seeing buyers prioritize the same themes highlighted in the BHGRE report: thoughtful design, flexible layouts, the emotional “this is the one” connection, and homes that feel grounded in nature.
This year’s trends break into six themes, each supported by national surveys of buyers and BHGRE agents. Here's a sneak peek at what's ahead:
Trend 1: The New Starter Home
Not smaller, but smarter. Portland’s compact homes with personality, natural light, and flexible spaces align perfectly with this trend.
Trend 2: Paint Colors That Sell
If you’re sensing Portland’s shift toward calm neutrals, earthy greens, and moody blues — you’re right on trend.
Trend 3: The Influence of Influencers
From TikTok pantries to cozy nooks, these design moments have officially left the internet and moved into Portland home tours.
Trend 4: Layout, Layout, Layout
Goodbye, wide-open everything. Buyers want flow, function, and spaces that adapt as life changes — something our older neighborhoods already do well.
Trend 5: Craftsmanship in the Details
Custom built-ins, vintage touches, real materials… Portlanders have always loved homes with soul.
Trend 6: Love at First Sight
Curb appeal is shifting toward serenity, sustainability, and that instant “welcome home” feeling — hello, native landscaping and warm entry moments.
Over the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing each trend through a Portland lens, with real examples of how they show up in our local neighborhoods, pricing tiers, and buyer expectations.
And if you’d like the full 2026 Design Trends Guide, I’m happy to send it your way. DM me for the complete 2026 BHGRE Home Trends Guide or reach out if you'd like help applying these insights to your next move!
