According to Forbes, keeping a close eye on major design and lifestyle events is key to understanding how buyer preferences are evolving. One of the most significant of these gatherings is the High Point Fall Market in North Carolina - an expansive, multi-building showcase often regarded as the home-furnishings equivalent of CES. Every year, thousands of designers, manufacturers, and industry experts walk through more than 11 million square feet of showrooms to preview upcoming products and spot new ideas. And while I attend from the perspective of how interior design trends ultimately shape home value and buyer expectations, the insights are always incredibly relevant to the real estate market. This year, the themes emerging for 2026 were apparent and optimistic. Below are the trends that stood out the most - and why I believe they will matter for homeowners and homebuyers in the coming year. 1. Kitchens and Bathrooms Take the Spotlight One of the most notable trends emerging from this year’s market is the increasing dominance of kitchen and bath innovation. These spaces have always played a pivotal role in home value, but their evolution is now accelerating at an impressive pace. A major home-products retailer made a significant debut as a market sponsor, situating its presence within the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s new flagship space - an indication of just how much attention these categories are receiving. Key observations include: A growing number of kitchen and bath manufacturers are showcasing advanced products An expansion of educational programming for professionals in these specialties A noticeable increase in designers who focus specifically on kitchen and bath projects This momentum aligns with long-standing market behavior. Kitchens and bathrooms continue to deliver the strongest return on investment, and demand for spa-inspired bathrooms, chef-style kitchens, natural materials, and smart fixtures is steadily rising. The market’s emphasis suggests that high-quality finishes and thoughtful upgrades in these areas will remain leading priorities through 2026. 2. Wellness Becomes a Core Design Principle Another trend that dominated the market was wellness-centered design. This goes far beyond a few calming paint colors - wellness is becoming an integrated approach to creating homes that feel restorative, comfortable, and healthy. Across the showrooms, a consistent emphasis on wellness-focused design was evident. Common themes included: Sustainable, natural materials Soft, organic forms and textures Products aimed at improving indoor air quality Lighting solutions aligned with natural circadian rhythms Surfaces featuring antimicrobial properties Furniture designed to reduce stress and enhance overall comfort Designers emphasized wellness as a guiding principle that influences every room in the home. The concept is straightforward: when a space functions well on a physical level, it naturally supports a calmer, more balanced state of mind - an idea that strongly resonates with today’s homeowners. 3. Rising Interest in Biophilic Design The influence of nature on interior spaces is becoming impossible to overlook. Biophilic design - creating environments that connect people to nature—has moved from a “nice idea” to a mainstream trend. At High Point, this showed up in many forms: Earthy, calming color palettes Nature-inspired patterns in textiles and wallcoverings Materials like wood, stone, jute, clay, and woven fibers Furniture designed for comfort and proper ergonomic support Even wellness-focused pieces like massage chairs The overall goal is to create interiors that feel balanced, grounded, and soothing. Natural materials continue to be hugely appealing to buyers because they bring warmth and timelessness into a space. For homeowners preparing to sell in the future, integrating even small biophilic elements can make a notable difference in how welcoming and “livable” a home feels. 4. Lighting as a Mood-Shaping Element Lighting trends deserve their own category this year. Designers are no longer treating lighting as a purely functional component - they’re using it as a way to create ambiance, emotion, and a sense of calm. The most prominent lighting themes included: Fixtures made from organic materials like rope, plant fibers, or textured metals Soft, warm finishes designed to create a soothing glow Sculptural forms that double as art Lighting systems that adjust throughout the day to match natural daylight patterns This shift aligns with the broader conversation around wellness. Good lighting can transform the experience of a room, and buyers are increasingly recognizing its impact. Homes that feature layered lighting - ambient, task, and accent - tend to photograph beautifully and feel more luxurious. 5. A New Approach to Fixtures and Surfaces Beyond lighting, the market highlighted significant updates in plumbing fixtures, hardware, and surface materials, all centered on turning everyday routines into more meaningful, spa-like experiences. Key themes included calming textured finishes, increased use of sustainable materials, water fixtures with a more luxurious feel, and surfaces that emphasize cleanliness and simplicity. Even small upgrades - such as matte fixtures, sculptural hardware, or textured tile - can greatly elevate a space and appeal to today’s buyers. 6. Technology That Enhances Comfort, Not Complexity It’s clear that tech-enhanced design isn’t going anywhere - but the approach is evolving. Rather than overwhelming spaces with gadgets, brands are integrating technology that improves wellness, convenience, and aesthetics. The market showed strong interest in smart-home innovations, including integrated charging systems, streamlined lighting controls, automated shading, tunable LED lighting, and systems that enhance air quality and natural-light balance. A major smart-home brand returned to High Point after over a decade, highlighting the growing demand for “invisible tech” that improves comfort without disrupting interior design. These smart systems are increasingly expected in well-designed homes, particularly in the higher-end market. Final Thoughts: 2026 Will Be About Comfort, Functionality & Calm Market designers highlighted how clutter, poor lighting, and uncomfortable furnishings can increase stress, while thoughtful design promotes comfort, productivity, and overall wellness. This year’s Market showed a clear shift toward homes that are comfortable, functional, calm, naturally beautiful, and enhanced by discreet smart technology. To explore how these emerging trends may inform your renovation or selling strategy, please get in touch to schedule a private consultation. Source: forbes.com

Source: compass.com National and regional statistics are generalities, essentially summaries generated by thousands of unique, individual listings and sales occurring across different market segments. They are best seen not as precise measurements, but as broad, comparative indicators with reasonable margins of error. Anomalous fluctuations in statistics are not uncommon, and last period data should be considered preliminary estimates which may be revised in future updates. Different analytics programs sometimes define standard statistics - such as "active listings," "days on market," and "months supply of inventory" - differently: What is most meaningful are not specific numeric calculations but the trends they illustrate. Data from sources deemed reliable, but may contain errors, and subject to revision. All numbers to be considered approximate, and how these analyses apply to any particular property is unknown without a specific comparative market analysis.   Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California operating under multiple entities. License Numbers 01991628, 1527235, 1527365, 1356742, 1443761, 1997075, 1935359, 1961027, 1842987, 1869607, 1866771, 1527205, 1079009, 1272467. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

Selling a home isn’t just about finding a buyer — it’s about reaching the closing table with confidence. Between accepting an offer and handing over the keys, there’s a critical stretch filled with details that determine how smoothly the sale goes. In today’s market, where every transaction is unique, knowing what to expect — and preparing for it — can make all the difference. Here’s how to keep your sale on track from start to finish. 1. Start Strong: Preparation Is Everything A seamless closing begins long before an offer comes in. Laying the groundwork early helps prevent surprises later.  • Handle maintenance upfront.  Take care of obvious repairs or upgrades before listing. This builds buyer confidence and minimizes inspection issues.  • Gather documentation.  Keep records of renovations, permits, warranties, and utility bills handy — transparency speeds up trust and negotiations.  • Price it right.  The Benson Group will help you determine the ideal listing price based on market data, neighborhood trends, and your home’s unique features — ensuring it attracts serious buyers and avoids any appraisal issues down the road. Preparation doesn’t just make your property look its best — it sets the tone for a smooth, successful sale. 2. Know What Happens After You’re “Under Contract” Once your home is under contract, the process unfolds through several key steps — each requiring coordination and follow-up.  • Inspections and appraisals:  Buyers will want reassurance that the home is in good condition and worth the agreed price. Being responsive during this phase keeps momentum strong.  • Negotiations and repairs:  Inspection results may lead to further discussions. Stay flexible, focus on solutions, and lean on your agent for guidance.  • Financing and underwriting:  Even pre-approved buyers go through final lender reviews. Your agent’s communication with the lender and title company can prevent unnecessary delays. These steps may sound routine, but timing, professionalism, and clear communication are what ensure everything moves forward on schedule. 3. Avoid the Pitfalls That Derail Closings About 15% of home sales fall through before closing — but the good news is, most of these issues are completely preventable. Here are the most common reasons deals stumble — and how to sidestep them:  • Inspection surprises:  Minor issues can look major if they catch buyers off guard. Proactive maintenance and transparency eliminate drama.  • Appraisal shortfalls:  If the home doesn’t appraise for the offer price, it can complicate financing. Setting a realistic listing price helps prevent this.  • Financing troubles:  Even solid buyers can face unexpected loan issues. Working with qualified, pre-approved buyers reduces risk.  • Poor communication:  Misunderstandings or missing documents can stall everything. A responsive, organized team keeps things on track. When everyone is informed and prepared, closing day arrives without stress — exactly how it should be. 4. Keep Communication Clear and Consistent Strong communication is the invisible thread that holds every transaction together. The Benson Group coordinates seamlessly between buyers, lenders, inspectors, and escrow officers to keep everyone aligned. Regular updates, reminders about deadlines, and quick responses to questions prevent small issues from becoming big ones. Sellers often tell us this proactive communication is what gave them peace of mind throughout the process. 5. Rely on Expertise You Can Trust Selling your home isn’t just a financial decision — it’s an emotional one. Having an experienced team by your side means you’re never navigating it alone. From strategy and negotiation to paperwork and timelines, The Benson Group’s expertise ensures every step of your sale is smooth, transparent, and fully supported. Our team anticipates challenges before they arise, provides proactive solutions, and always keeps your goals — and your peace of mind — at the center of everything we do. 6. Celebrate the Finish Line Closing day isn’t just the end of a transaction — it’s the start of your next chapter. When every step is handled with care, that final signature feels like a true achievement. It’s more than a sale; it’s a successful transition. And when the process is smooth, it sets the stage for what comes next — whether that’s your dream home, a new investment, or simply peace of mind. Let’s Make Your Sale Seamless If you’re considering selling or just curious about your home’s market value, we’d love to guide you through the process. Reach out today  — let’s make your next move smooth, successful, and stress-free.

Picture perfect inside and out, this updated Eichler home boasts expansive windows, a designer color palette, an ideal open-concept floor plan, privately located bedrooms, and fabulous indoor/outdoor flow. The living/dining room combination overlooks the patio and yard and features a to-the-ceiling fireplace, high ceilings, and direct access to the granite-appointed kitchen. Just off the living room, the family room offers a quiet space to relax and entertain with sliding glass doors to the yard. The primary suite features a wall of closets, a spa-like en suite, and a door to the patio, while two additional bedrooms enjoy tall picture windows. And outside, the private yard wraps around the home and offers numerous paver stone patios, stretches of lawn, fresh landscaping, and mature trees. All of this, just steps from Cubberley Community Center, commute routes, shops, and restaurants. < Back 4054 Ben Lomond Dr, Palo Alto $2,862,500 Bedrooms Bathrooms Size Lot Size Year Built Status 3 2 1,688 sqft 7,062 sqft 1955 Sold Picture perfect inside and out, this updated Eichler home boasts expansive windows, a designer color palette, an ideal open-concept floor plan, privately located bedrooms, and fabulous indoor/outdoor flow. The living/dining room combination overlooks the patio and yard and features a to-the-ceiling fireplace, high ceilings, and direct access to the granite-appointed kitchen. Just off the living room, the family room offers a quiet space to relax and entertain with sliding glass doors to the yard. The primary suite features a wall of closets, a spa-like en suite, and a door to the patio, while two additional bedrooms enjoy tall picture windows. And outside, the private yard wraps around the home and offers numerous paver stone patios, stretches of lawn, fresh landscaping, and mature trees. All of this, just steps from Cubberley Community Center, commute routes, shops, and restaurants. Learn More Andrew Benson (650) 773-1147 Laurie Benson (650) 245-4530 bensongroup@compass.com

Built in 2013, this boutique building of 13 condos, is well located in SOMA near popular eateries & hangouts. This fabulous stylish 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom home has gorgeous bamboo floors, a bright living room and dining room with fireplace heater, comfortable layout, storage and a washer/dryer in unit. It features a chef's kitchen, quartz counters, ample cabinets, and LG appliances. Boasting a large bedroom, nice sized closet, and window seating as well as a lovely bathroom with shower over tub, and designer tile. One car & bike parking in the garage, as well as a panoramic roof deck and elevator. Near transit, corporate shuttles, and freeways. Imagine yourself steps to Sightglass & Blue Bottle cafes, Vive la Tarte & Frena bakeries, Birdsong & Tempest, Cavalier, movies, shopping and more. The city's largest Whole Foods (incl. food & beer hall) is planned for Market & 8th. < Back 537 Natoma St #202, San Francisco $651,000 Bedrooms Bathrooms Size Lot Size Year Built Status 1 1 519 sqft 2013 Sold Built in 2013, this boutique building of 13 condos, is well located in SOMA near popular eateries & hangouts. This fabulous stylish 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom home has gorgeous bamboo floors, a bright living room and dining room with fireplace heater, comfortable layout, storage and a washer/dryer in unit. It features a chef's kitchen, quartz counters, ample cabinets, and LG appliances. Boasting a large bedroom, nice sized closet, and window seating as well as a lovely bathroom with shower over tub, and designer tile. One car & bike parking in the garage, as well as a panoramic roof deck and elevator. Near transit, corporate shuttles, and freeways. Imagine yourself steps to Sightglass & Blue Bottle cafes, Vive la Tarte & Frena bakeries, Birdsong & Tempest, Cavalier, movies, shopping and more. The city's largest Whole Foods (incl. food & beer hall) is planned for Market & 8th. Learn More Andrew Benson (650) 773-1147 Laurie Benson (650) 245-4530 bensongroup@compass.com

Located in sought after Old Town Tiburon, this gorgeous Warren Callister designed home has been tastefully remodeled from head to toe. With expansive views ranging from the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, Alcatraz, and downtown San Francisco, this property is truly one of a kind. The floor plan encompasses four spacious bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and a stylish kitchen that flows to the dining room and sunny garden. The master suite, complete with attached sitting room, ensures parents a private space to enjoy the views. Perfect for a family or as a holiday retreat, this home's setting enjoy's the proximity to the water, Tiburon ferry, Main Street cafes and restaurants, and premier schools. < Back 1889 Mar West St, Tiburon $3,250,000 Bedrooms Bathrooms Size Lot Size Year Built Status 4 4.5 3,421 sqft 1989 Sold 4 4.5 3,421 sqft 1989 Sold Located in sought after Old Town Tiburon, this gorgeous Warren Callister designed home has been tastefully remodeled from head to toe. With expansive views ranging from the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, Alcatraz, and downtown San Francisco, this property is truly one of a kind. The floor plan encompasses four spacious bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and a stylish kitchen that flows to the dining room and sunny garden. The master suite, complete with attached sitting room, ensures parents a private space to enjoy the views. Perfect for a family or as a holiday retreat, this home's setting enjoy's the proximity to the water, Tiburon ferry, Main Street cafes and restaurants, and premier schools. Learn More Andrew Benson (650) 773-1147 Laurie Benson (650) 245-4530 bensongroup@compass.com