Countertop Replacement Driven by Existing Home Sales

Principia asked homeowners who recently completed a countertop replacement project if the motivation behind their countertop project was related to either the sale or purchase of their home. The turnover of a home typically triggers thousands of dollars of improvement spending by either the home seller or buyer. Sellers make strategic improvements to increase the aesthetic appeal of their home to support their asking price and hopefully reduce the time on market, while buyers work to make home improvements and upgrades to better fit their needs and aesthetic preferences. In fact, the National Association of Realtors cites an average of $6,000 in spending within the first year following a home’s purchase. However, the spend can vary widely by demographics, age of home, and type of project.

Interestingly, the correlation between existing home sales and remodeling spend has weakened over time as other factors have become influential. For example, the median age of American homes has significantly increased in recent decades and older homes typically require repair and improvement regardless of whether a sale is planned. Further, home tenure has also increased over time, accelerated by the locked-in mortgage effect. In addition, older homeowners are making improvements to age in place and high home prices incentivize younger homeowners to renovate current homes rather than seek new larger homes.

According to Principia’s recent survey among nearly 7,000 homeowners across multiple product categories, about 20% of home improvement projects were triggered by the turnover of a home. This ratio is down slightly from 2022. Homeowners were more motivated to upgrade interior products than exterior products. About 30% of interior projects were related to a home turnover compared to about 15% for exterior products.

Countertop replacement projects were the most likely to be related to the sale or purchase of a home.  Nearly 40% of countertop replacement projects were related to home turnover—that equates to two of every five countertop projects. Moreover, this percentage of projects increased from 2022 to 2025, as homeowners recognize the role countertops play in home value perception and buyer appeal during property turnover.

Principia’s survey findings highlight the strong connection between home turnover and investment in kitchens and bathrooms. Whether preparing to sell or settling into a new home, homeowners prioritize countertop upgrades as a strategic investment in both function and design.

Stay ahead of market trends and meet growing demand with our latest insights. Contact us today to arrange a product demo!