10 New Year Resolutions for the Residential Remodeling Industry

The remodeling industry faced a whirlwind of challenges in 2024: rising material costs, labor shortages, and shifting client expectations. Yet, these obstacles also brought new opportunities—homeowners continued to invest in their spaces, prioritizing renovations that enhance both function and style. 

As we move into 2025, staying competitive means adapting to these changes and capitalizing on emerging trends.

Setting New Year resolutions isn’t just about personal growth—it’s a strategic move for your business. Resolutions help you focus on what matters most, improve your processes, and position yourself as a leader in the market.

Ready to make 2025 your best year yet? Let’s kick things off with these 10 resolutions designed to elevate your remodeling game and take your business to the next level!

Get Better At Digital Marketing

Digital marketing is the use of online channels like websites, social media, email, and search engines to promote products, services, or brands. It includes strategies like SEO, content marketing, social media marketing, email campaigns, and paid ads to connect with target audiences, drive traffic, and generate sales. 

If you’re not leveraging digital marketing, you’re leaving money on the table—and your competitors are happy to scoop it up. While relying on word-of-mouth can help, you need to pro-active in generating leads.

Homeowners are scrolling Instagram, searching Google, and binge-watching YouTube to find remodelers who can bring their dream spaces to life. Especially the ones trying to DIY their project!

Here’s how you can excel online and turn that digital presence into a lead-generation machine:

1. Showcase Your Work on Social Media

Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok aren’t just for showing off dance moves; they’re your portfolio. Post stunning before-and-after photos, create short videos explaining your process, and share client testimonials to build credibility. Bonus tip: Use Stories or Reels to show real-time progress on job sites—it adds authenticity and builds trust.

Interested in creating videos for social? Check out our guide on how to use ChatGPT to help produce video content ideas: https://www.handoff.ai/blog/chatgpt-prompts-for-video-content-ideas

2. Run Paid Ads for Consistent Leads

Organic reach is great, but it’s not always enough to fill your pipeline. Paid ads on Facebook, Instagram, and Google allow you to target homeowners in your service area who are actively looking for remodeling services. Start with a small budget and test ad formats like lead-generation forms or project highlight videos. Paid ads are a fast track to staying booked out months in advance.

Check out our Facebook ads guide for more help: https://www.handoff.ai/blog/5-facebook-ad-ideas-to-get-leads-for-your-remodeling-business

3. Educate with Long-Form Content

Start a blog or YouTube channel showcasing your expertise. Walk your audience through projects with before-and-after transformations or create "how-to" videos about simple DIY upgrades. This positions you as the go-to expert in your market while improving your website’s SEO and driving free, organic traffic.

Want to write blog content? Check out our guide on how to create a blog for your website: https://www.handoff.ai/blog/how-to-start-a-blog-for-your-home-remodeling-business

4. Use A Clear Call To Action

Every social post, blog article, or video should guide viewers to take the next step. Add clear calls-to-action like:

• “Contact us today for a free consultation!”
• “Visit our website to see more transformations.”
• “DM us to get started on your next project.”

The goal is simple: turn every online interaction into an opportunity to win a new client.

Automate Business Operations

Time is money, and if you’re still stuck juggling endless paperwork, messy spreadsheets, and constant back-and-forth client emails, you’re wasting both. 

Automation isn’t just for tech savvy people—it’s the game-changer remodeling contractors need to grow their business in 2025 without burning out. Here’s how you can let technology do the heavy lifting while you focus on what you do best: remodeling homes.

1. Use AI to Simplify Cost Estimates and Proposals

AI tools like Handoff can instantly generate accurate estimates and professional proposals, saving you hours on every project. 

Imagine this: instead of spending your evenings crunching numbers, you input a few details, and the software does the work for you. Not only does this impress clients with lightning-fast estimates, but it also helps you close deals faster. Spend the extra time with friends and family in 2025.

2. Implement Project Management Software

Platforms like Buildertrend or CoConstruct are built for contractors like you. They help you track every aspect of a project—schedules, budgets, material orders, and even client communications—all in one place. These tools keep your team on the same page and prevent costly mistakes, ensuring jobs run smoothly from start to finish.

3. Automate Routine Tasks to Save Time

Stop wasting hours on repetitive admin work. Tools for invoicing, scheduling, and follow-ups can handle the boring stuff while you focus on high-value tasks. For example:

• Automate appointment reminders for client meetings.
• Use software to track invoices and payments.
• Set up email sequences to nurture leads or keep clients updated on project milestones.

4. Scale Your Business Without The Stress

When you automate your operations, you gain the freedom to take on more projects without sacrificing quality or sanity. Whether it’s automating estimates, communicating with clients, or helping send invoices, these tools reduce errors, save time, and keep your profits growing.

Strengthen Client Relationships

In the remodeling business, happy clients don’t just come back—they bring their friends, family, and neighbors with them. Building strong relationships with your clients isn’t just good practice; it’s your secret weapon. Here’s how to turn every project into a referral-generating machine:

1. Communicate Clearly and Frequently

Most complaints for construction contracting businesses boil down to poor communication. Don’t leave clients guessing about timelines, budgets, or progress. Use project management tools like Procore or Buildertrend to keep them updated in real-time, schedule weekly check-ins, and address concerns as they arise. Clear communication shows professionalism and builds trust, making clients more likely to recommend you to others.

2. Personalize the Client Experience

Go the extra mile to make clients feel valued. Simple gestures like sending a thank-you email after a project or remembering their preferences can leave a lasting impression. Even better, create a personalized post-project report with maintenance tips for their remodeled space—it’s a small touch that shows you care beyond the paycheck.

3. Stay Connected After the Job Ends

The relationship shouldn’t end when the dust settles. Here’s how to stay top of mind:

• Holiday Cards: Send a card during the holidays to remind clients you appreciate them.
• Check-In Emails: Reach out six months later to ask how they’re enjoying their remodeled space.
• Referral Incentives: Offer discounts or gift cards for referrals—it’s a win-win for you and your clients.

4. Celebrate Their Milestones

Keep track of project anniversaries or major client milestones. Sending a quick "Happy 1-Year Anniversary of Your New Kitchen!" email with a discount on future services can turn clients into lifelong fans.

Without clients, you don’t have a business. Keeping your clients happy and staying top of mind—whether through excellent service, sharing helpful tips, or sending a thoughtful thank-you card—ensures they’ll remember you when recommending someone to their friends.

Offer More Services and Upsells

If you want to stand out in the remodeling industry and boost your revenue in 2025, you need to think beyond the basics. Expanding your services and offering upsells is the key to maximizing every project and becoming a one-stop solution for your clients. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Diversify Your Service Offerings

Homeowners want more than just remodels—they want lifestyle upgrades. Tap into these in-demand services to increase your value:

• Outdoor Living Spaces: Add services like patios, fire pits, or outdoor kitchens to your portfolio. These are high-demand projects that homeowners love.
• Smart Home Integrations: Offer installations like smart thermostats, lighting systems, and security features to attract tech-savvy clients.

By adding these extras, you not only meet more client needs but also position yourself as an expert in comprehensive home transformation.

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2. Partner for Bundled Services

You don’t have to do it all yourself. Build partnerships with specialists like landscapers, interior designers, or electricians. Create bundled packages that provide a seamless experience for your clients.

• Example: “The Ultimate Backyard Upgrade” could include a new patio (your service), landscaping (your partner), and lighting (an electrician). Clients get convenience, and you generate more leads through cross-referrals.

3. Add Design-Build Capabilities

Homeowners love simplicity, and design-build services deliver it. By offering both the design and construction phases under one roof, you eliminate client headaches and streamline the process. If you don’t have an in-house designer, partner with one and present it as a unified service.

4. Upsell at Every Opportunity

Upselling isn’t pushy when it’s value-driven. Suggest simple or inexpensive upgrades during the project that enhance the results, such as:

• Premium fixtures or finishes for kitchens and bathrooms.
• Built-in storage solutions during a closet or garage remodel.
• Energy-efficient windows or doors in a whole-home renovation.

These small additions can significantly increase your profit margins while giving clients more value.

Build a Better Referral Network

In the remodeling business, referrals are pure gold. They’re high-quality, low-cost leads that come with built-in trust. If you’re not actively cultivating a referral network, you’re leaving one of the most valuable growth opportunities on the table. Here’s how to build a steady stream of word-of-mouth business that keeps your schedule booked year-round:

1. Collaborate with Industry Pros

Some of the best referrals come from people who work with homeowners every day. Build strong relationships with:

• Real Estate Agents: They constantly meet homeowners needing upgrades to sell or personalize their new spaces.
• Interior Designers: Designers need contractors they trust to bring their visions to life.
• Other Home Services Pros: Electricians, plumbers, and landscapers can refer clients needing full-scale remodeling work.

Reach out to these professionals and create mutually beneficial partnerships that keep leads flowing both ways.

2. Offer Referral Incentives

Give past clients a reason to sing your praises. Offer referral rewards like:

• Gift Cards: A $50 gift card for every lead that turns into a project.
• Discounts: A 10% discount on future services for every successful referral.
• Exclusive Perks: VIP priority scheduling or free upgrades for loyal clients who refer others.

This simple gesture can turn your happiest clients into your most enthusiastic marketers.

3. Attend Local Networking Events

Think about where your potential referral partners hang out. Join real estate meetups, attend trade shows, or participate in Chamber of Commerce events. Don’t just show up—build relationships. Have a clear pitch about your services and how they complement what others in the room offer.

4. Leverage Online Communities

Expand your network without leaving your office. Join Facebook groups, Nextdoor, and LinkedIn communities where homeowners and local professionals are active. Share your expertise, answer questions, and connect with other service providers to generate leads and referrals online.

5. Stay Top-of-Mind

Even your best referral partners can forget about you if you don’t stay visible. Keep the relationship alive by:

• Sending periodic updates about your services or showcasing recent projects.
• Hosting appreciation events for top referral sources.
• Sending holiday cards or small gifts to thank them for their continued support.

Strengthen Up Your Team

Your business is only as strong as the people behind it. In the remodeling industry, having a skilled, reliable, and motivated team isn’t optional—it’s a necessity. 

If you want to deliver exceptional results, grow your business, and build a stellar reputation in 2025, it’s time to invest in your crew. Here’s how to tighten up your team and create a dream roster of subcontractors and employees:

1. Work with the Best Subcontractors

Stop settling for “good enough.” Your subcontractors represent your brand, so make sure they’re the best in the business.

• Vet subcontractors thoroughly by reviewing past work, references, and any licenses or certifications.
• Prioritize reliability, communication, and a strong work ethic alongside technical skills.
• Create a feedback loop: Regularly evaluate subcontractors’ performance and address any concerns immediately.

When your team works like a well-oiled machine, it shows in the quality of your projects—and your clients will notice.

2. Encourage Professional Growth

Investing in your team’s skills is an investment in your business. Encourage your crew and subcontractors to pursue certifications in areas like:

• Energy Efficiency: Certifications like LEED or ENERGY STAR boost your credibility and attract eco-conscious clients.
• Project Management: Skills in time management and coordination lead to smoother jobs and fewer delays.
• Specialty Skills: Whether it’s tile work, cabinetry, or smart home integration, niche expertise sets your business apart.

Consider covering part of the cost for these certifications or offering bonuses for completed training—it’s a win-win for everyone.

3. Attend Industry Events Together

Take your team to conferences, trade shows, and workshops. These events are opportunities to:

• Stay updated on the latest materials, tools, and technology.
• Build camaraderie among team members.
• Learn about emerging trends that can set you apart in the market.

Exposure to new ideas and innovations keeps your team sharp and motivated.

4. Foster a Team Culture of Excellence

Great teams don’t just happen—they’re built. Create a culture where:

• Communication is clear and consistent.
• High standards are celebrated and rewarded.
• Everyone feels accountable for the success of the project.

This kind of culture attracts top talent and ensures you retain the best workers.

Set Financial Goals

In 2025, running a remodeling business without clear financial goals is like building a house without a blueprint—you’re setting yourself up for trouble. A solid financial strategy not only keeps your business profitable but also prepares you for the unexpected. Here’s how to take control of your numbers and make this your most profitable year yet:

1. Review and Adjust Your Pricing Strategy

Material costs are rising, and inflation isn’t slowing down. If you’re still working off last year’s pricing, you’re eating into your profits. Which is why using an estimating software like Handoff, that uses up to date material and labor cost data, is important to maximize your profit.

• Recalculate Job Costs: Factor in higher material prices, subcontractor rates, and other increased expenses.
• Add a Cushion: Build a margin into your pricing to account for unexpected costs.
• Communicate Value: If raising prices makes you nervous, focus on showing clients the value they’re getting—quality craftsmanship, reliability, and a seamless experience.

You’re not just competing on price; you’re competing on trust and results.

2. Focus on Higher-Margin Projects

Not all jobs are created equal. Some projects bring in high revenue but razor-thin profits. In 2025, focus on the work that pays off:

• Identify the types of jobs with the best margins, like kitchen remodels, high-end bathroom upgrades, or whole-home renovations.
• Politely decline low-profit jobs that drain your resources without delivering meaningful returns.
• Upsell premium features, like custom cabinetry or smart home systems, to maximize each project’s profitability.

It’s better to complete fewer, more profitable projects than to scramble on dozens of low-paying ones.

3. Build a Rainy-Day Fund

Economic uncertainty is always on the horizon. Sometimes the jobs just aren’t there. Prepare for it by setting aside a portion of your profits in a business savings account.

• Aim to save 3-6 months’ worth of operating expenses.
• Use this fund to cover slow seasons, unexpected expenses, or invest in new opportunities when the timing is right.
• Think of it as an insurance policy that keeps your business running smoothly, no matter what.

4. Set Measurable Financial Targets

Don’t just say, “I want to make more money.” Get specific:

• Set monthly, quarterly, and annual revenue goals.
• Track key metrics like profit margins, average project value, and overhead costs.
• Review your progress regularly and adjust as needed.

A clear plan keeps you focused, motivated, and in control.

Improve Your Professionalism

Clients today expect transparency, reliability, and a seamless experience. Here’s how to exceed their expectations and build trust:

1. Offer Detailed Timelines and Cost Breakdown

Break down every project step with clear timelines and budgets. This shows clients you’re organized and in control, reducing their stress.

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2. Use Real-Time Tracking Tools

Implement software like Buildertrend or CoConstruct that allows clients to track progress, view updates, and approve changes. It keeps them informed and reassured every step of the way.

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3. Set Realistic Expectations

Be honest about timelines, budgets, and potential challenges upfront. Clients appreciate transparency and will respect you more when you deliver what you promise.

Professionalism isn’t just about how you work—it’s how you make clients feel. When clients trust you, they’ll not only hire you again but recommend you to everyone they know.

Elevate Your Interior Design Game

Design is where function meets style, and homeowners want both. Stay ahead of the curve by offering elevated design solutions that wow your clients:

1. Stay Ahead of Trends

Learn emerging styles to cater to modern tastes. Clients want remodelers who can bring fresh ideas to the table.

2. Collaborate with Designers

If you’re not a design pro, partner with one or bring in-house design services to your business. A seamless design-build approach simplifies the process for clients and sets you apart from competitors.

3. Use 3D Rendering Tools

Invest in technology that allows clients to visualize their spaces before work begins. It minimizes revisions, builds excitement, and helps close deals faster.

By delivering stunning, functional designs, you’re not just remodeling based on current trens—you’re creating spaces clients will rave about.

Focus on Growth

A successful remodeling business isn’t just about surviving the year—it’s about planning for the next five years and beyond. Here’s how to scale strategically:

1. Identify Top-Performing Services: 

Analyze your past projects to determine which services bring in the most profit and client satisfaction. Double down on what’s working and cut what isn’t.

2. Expand into New Markets: 

Consider exploring high-margin opportunities like luxury renovations, ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units), or tiny home construction. These niches are growing and can position you as an innovator in your market.

3. Develop a 5-Year Plan: 

Set long-term goals with clear milestones. For example:

• 2025: Increase annual revenue by 20% by focusing on kitchen remodels.
• 2026: Launch a luxury bathroom renovation service.
• 2027: Open a second location or expand into a nearby city.

Growth doesn’t happen by accident—it happens with intention.

Why New Year Resolutions Are Important For Contractors

Implementing these resolutions can transform your remodeling business in 2025, setting you up for long-term success. Whether it’s tightening up your team, improving client relationships, or mastering digital marketing, each step brings you closer to a more efficient, profitable, and trusted business.

You don’t have to tackle everything at once. Start by choosing 2-3 resolutions that resonate most with your current goals and challenges. The key is consistency—small, intentional changes can lead to big results over time.

As we enter the new year, remember this powerful quote: "Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out." – Robert Collier

If you’re looking for a bit more inspiration to stay motivated and strategic, I highly recommend reading Atomic Habits by James Clear. It’s packed with actionable insights on building habits that stick and achieving long-term success.

Here’s to a thriving 2025—let’s build something incredible, together!