By Annie Hanna Engel , President, Howard Hanna Insurance
As we begin 2026, one thing is clear: the homeowners insurance landscape continues to evolve just as quickly as the real estate market it supports. Change is not new to our industry, but the pace, complexity, and interconnectedness of today’s risks make this an important moment for homeowners, agents, and insurance professionals alike.
At Howard Hanna Insurance, our role is not just to respond to change, but to anticipate it. Doing so helps us protect our clients’ homes, investments, and peace of mind across the 15 states we proudly serve.
Here are a few key trends and considerations shaping the year ahead.
1. Insurance and Real Estate Are More Intertwined Than Ever
Insurance is no longer a last-step checkbox at closing. Coverage availability, pricing, and underwriting requirements are increasingly influencing transaction timelines and buyer decisions.
In some markets, inspections tied to roof condition, aging systems, or property updates are becoming more rigorous. For buyers and sellers, this means conversations about insurance should start earlier in the transaction. For real estate professionals, it reinforces the value of trusted insurance partners who understand both the property and the market dynamics.
2. Climate and Weather Risk Remain Front and Center
From severe storms and flooding to wildfire exposure and extreme temperature swings, weather-related losses continue to shape underwriting guidelines nationwide. While each region faces different risks, the common thread across our footprint is the need for smarter risk management and proactive planning.
In 2026, we expect continued emphasis on mitigation, including roof upgrades, water-loss prevention, and property resilience measures. These improvements do not just protect homes. They can also help stabilize coverage options and long-term affordability.
3. Rebuilding Costs and Coverage Accuracy Matter More Than Ever
Inflation may have cooled from recent highs, but rebuilding costs remain elevated in many markets due to labor shortages, material pricing, and regional demand. One of the biggest risks homeowners face today is being underinsured. This often happens not because they chose inadequate coverage, but because their policy has not kept pace with replacement costs.
This year, we are encouraging homeowners to review their coverage limits carefully and regularly. For agents, this is another opportunity to educate clients and reinforce the value of professional guidance over one-size-fits-all solutions.
4. Technology Is Improving the Customer Experience
The insurance industry is continuing to modernize, with advancements in digital quoting, policy servicing, and claims communication. These tools are making it easier for clients to access information and for professionals to deliver faster, more transparent service.
At the same time, technology does not replace expertise. In a complex insurance environment, knowledgeable advisors remain essential, especially when navigating coverage nuances, regional requirements, and evolving carrier guidelines.
5. Local Expertise Still Wins
Operating across 15 states gives Howard Hanna Insurance a unique perspective. While national trends matter, real estate and insurance are ultimately local. Regulations, risk factors, and market conditions vary widely from one community to the next.
Our focus in 2026 remains on combining the strength of a multi-state organization with deep local knowledge, so our clients receive advice that reflects where they live, not just national averages.
As we move through the year, our commitment is simple: to support Howard Hanna agents, homeowners, and buyers with clarity, confidence, and coverage they can count on.
Thank you for the trust you place in Howard Hanna Insurance. We look forward to navigating the year ahead together.
Annie Engel President, Howard Hanna Insurance
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services proudly provides real estate, mortgage, title, and insurance services across 14 states. As the largest family-owned and -operated real estate brokerage in the United States, Howard Hanna operates more than 500 offices with 15,000 sales associates and staff. Recognized as the most innovative brokerage, Howard Hanna provides solution-based programs and platforms to empower their agents to provide more resources for homebuyers and home sellers, resulting in their agents achieving a sales success rate that is 53% higher than agents at the top 1000 brokerages nationally. Since 1957, Howard Hanna has helped agents build the skills and experience needed to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of real estate. Learn more at www.HowardHanna.com.
