The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way some homeowners wanted to use their kitchen and yards, according to a survey of 1,000 real estate agents by HomeLight. 

When homeowners tried to spruce up their outdoor spaces, the number one item was a fire pit, followed by privacy fences or shrubs or cabana curtains, then a full outdoor kitchen, a shady area and screened in spaces. Fire pits were most popular in the Midwest and Northeast regions. 

The most popular kitchen projects: kitchen islands, walk-in pantries, more drawer and cabinet storage, as well as attractive backsplashes. Midwestern real estate professionals said smart appliances were popular, too.  

For more details on these trends and popular ideas for enhancing bathrooms, go to: bit.ly/TopRenovations_2021