What Homebuyers, Homeowners, and Home Sellers Share

Greetings to all future and current homeowners, as well as home sellers!

As a Realtor®, Mortgage Loan Originator in Dallas-Fort Worth, and a homeowner myself, I’ve come to see one thing we all have in common: the home.

For homebuyers, the home is the starting point of a new future. For homeowners, it is a space of constant improvement. For home sellers, it is the finish line as they prepare for the next chapter by getting the home ready to list.

The truth is, every home will go through updates, renovations, maintenance, or repairs, depending on its owner. Whether you’re adding functionality, making repairs, upgrading to luxurious features, or renovating outdated materials, it will either be a DIY project or a job for a professional contractor.

When you decide to hire a professional rather than do it yourself, having a list of reliable contractors is a necessity. That’s why I’m always searching for great contractors and make it a priority to attend shows and expos. Here, I will share my experience from the Dallas Home Show held in January 2026. I will also talk about the value of having a contractor list, tips for finding the right contractor, and key things to look for at shows and expos.

Oleg Sedletsky Realtor®, Mortgage Loan Originator visiting the Dallas Home Show. | January 17, 2026

Why You Should Always Have a Contractor List And Why a Contractor List is Your Most Valuable Asset

Let’s be honest, life happens. You never know when you’ll need a trusted contractor to tackle a project or repair.

Think of your home’s systems like the organs in a body. The plumbing, foundation, and electrical wiring keep the house alive. When one of these critical systems fails, you need a specialist immediately. You would not want to search for a doctor while in an ambulance, and you should not be searching for a plumber while water is flooding your kitchen.

When a pipe bursts or your AC gives out in the Texas summer, the situation is urgent. Scrambling to find someone online during a crisis often leads to hurried decisions, which can result in hiring someone unqualified or overpaying for the service.

You might ask, why would homebuyers need a contractor list if they haven’t bought a home yet? Here’s why. Sometimes, buyers find a home that needs a little love and care. By getting estimates from contractors, they can better understand the costs involved, which can be a game-changer when it comes to negotiating.

This is why having a plan is so important. I always advise my clients to follow the “Three P” approach: thorough Planning, meticulous Preparation, and Partnering with knowledgeable professionals. This strategy helps you make smart, confident decisions, even when you’re under pressure.

How to Find the Right Professionals

So, where do you find these trusted partners for your home? There are a few reliable methods.

• Online Search: You can browse the internet, but it is often difficult to separate glossy marketing from actual quality.
• Family and Friends: Asking people you trust is a great way to get honest feedback about their experiences.
• Your Realtor: This is often your best resource. As real estate professionals, we constantly interact with contractors and see the results of their work firsthand. We know who shows up on time and who delivers quality.
• Shows and Expos: Attending events where businesses present their services gives you a unique advantage.

My Experience at the Dallas Home Show

On January 17th, 2026 I visited the Dallas Home Show at Dallas Fair Park, the iconic home of the State Fair of Texas. I spent about six hours walking the floor, speaking with business owners, and vetting services to expand my personal list of recommended professionals. The biggest benefit of this event is efficiency. You can explore new products, compare companies, and speak directly to the experts all in one afternoon.

Contractors and Businesses That Really Stood Out to Me

As a Realtor®, Mortgage expert, and detail-oriented homeowner, I’ve learned to ask the specific questions to determine if a company or contractor truly knows their craft.
At the show, I spoke with a variety of contractors, from small businesses to larger companies.
Many impressed me with their knowledge and craftsmanship, and I want to share my findings with you.

Roofing

Your home’s roof serves as its first line of defense against the elements. I had an in-depth conversation with Mr. Burt Chandler of Burt Chandler Company Inc., a highly knowledgeable roofing contractor. His expertise and deep understanding of the craft were truly impressive. Our discussion was both insightful and productive, and it was clear that his level of knowledge comes from years of experience and dedication to the industry.

www.burtchandler.com
(817) 205-9021

Foundation Repair

While basements are almost nonexistent in Dallas, soil movement is a challenge we can’t ignore. Foundation repair is a critical service, especially for older properties. I connected with specialists who understand the specific needs of Dallas foundations.

www.groundworks.com

Kitchen Cabinet Upgrades

While full remodels are popular, I noticed a strong demand for custom cabinet drawers. Two companies were showcasing these solutions. For a seller, having organized, high-quality drawers is a fantastic selling point.

www.artofdrawers.com/custom-drawers/

Epoxy Flooring

I would argue that epoxy flooring is a must-have for any modern garage. It protects the concrete and looks incredible. It is one of those upgrades that instantly elevates the feel of the home.

fortressfloorsofdallas.com

Wall Printing

One of the more fascinating finds was a company specializing in wall printing. They can print a mural or custom graphic on nearly any vertical surface! It is not a necessity, but it is a unique way to personalize your space.

www.arcwallprint.com

Permanent Lighting

This trend is exploding in popularity. It eliminates the need to hang seasonal holiday lights ever again. Two companies at the show were constantly busy providing quotes. It is a convenience that also boosts curb appeal.

trimlightnorthtexas.com

Pergolas and Outdoor Screens

Outdoor living is huge in Texas. I saw beautiful custom aluminum pergolas that feature retractable screens and motorized louvered roofs. These structures allow you to enjoy your patio regardless of the sun or bugs.

www.unionshadeco.com

Plumbing

You really want to have a few plumbers on your emergency list. I connected with trustworthy professionals at the show who handle everything from leaks to major installations.

www.hawkhillservices.com

Painters

Painters are always needed, especially when it is time to sell the house. Fresh paint is a huge selling point that can transform the look of a property instantly.

www.paintcorps.com/dallas-irving-tx/

sanmiguelpainting.com/

Full List of Contractors

I took a photo of the full list of vendors who participated in the 2026 Dallas Home Show for you to review at your convenience. You can refer to this image to find contact details for the specific businesses mentioned above and many others.

Practical Strategies for Tackling Home Improvement Projects

Whether you plan to attend the next show or are just starting to think about future projects, here is some actionable advice.

• Build Your Team Now. Do not wait for an emergency. Create a list of contractors categorized by service: “Urgent” for plumbing and electrical, “Maintenance” for painting and pest control, and “Wish List” for remodeling and landscaping.
• Ask Direct Questions. When you meet a professional, inquire about their licensing, insurance, and warranty process. Their answers will reveal a lot about their commitment to quality and customer service.
• Get Preliminary Estimates. Use the show to gather ballpark pricing for projects you have in mind. Homebuyers can use this information in negotiations, while homeowners and sellers can use it for budgeting.
• Observe the Trends. Pay attention to what is in high demand. Features like custom pergolas, motorized blinds, and energy efficient windows are popular for a reason. They add comfort and value.

Move Forward with Your Home Goals

The difference between a stressful property and a valuable asset often comes down to the team you have in your corner. The Dallas Home Show is an excellent place to find those skilled professionals. For homebuyers, this knowledge is power during negotiations. For homeowners, it provides a roadmap for future upgrades. For sellers, strategic improvements can make a significant impact on your final sale price. Start building your list of trusted contractors today; you will be glad you did!

My Dallas Home Show Photo Gallery – Over 100 Photos I Captured

Explore the exhibits and meet the professionals who made the event special. Below, you’ll find a gallery with more than 100 photos I captured during the show.