The results of the 2026 CBIZ Construction Survey suggest that organizations based in the Northeast U.S. are optimistic, growing, and open to the right exit opportunity. Credit access and loan terms appear largely unchanged, with 74 percent of respondents expecting them to be as available over the next 12 months as they are today. Similarly, 69 percent expect bonding capacity to remain consistent over the year ahead. That suggests optimism that financing will be available as opportunities arise.

Backlogs are largely stable or growing, with 41 percent reporting they are “about the same” at the start of 2026 as they were in early 2025. A further 24 percent report their backlogs have increased by more than 15 percent compared to the prior year, while 14 percent are tracking an increase of under 15 percent. Rising competition can be seen in the number of bidders respondents are facing on a typical project. Organizations in the Northeast report that they face five to nine other bidders at the highest rate (48 percent) of any region.

Those responding to the CBIZ survey identified the top strategic priority for the year ahead as operational efficiency at 56 percent, followed by strategic planning (51 percent), and market growth (49 percent). What is keeping construction leaders up at night throughout the Northeast? “Lack of new work or project cancellations” was the highest ranked concern at 28 percent, followed closely by labor shortages and rising wages at 25 percent. According to this survey data, the Northeast is the region least affected by rising wages, with 49 percent of respondents issuing pay increases of 1 to 3 percent over the previous 12 months. That compares favorably to other regions where most reported pay increases of 4 to 5 percent.

In terms of succession strategy, dealmaking is top-of-mind. More than half of respondents reported that they are considering a sale in some form, with most (50 percent) considering a sale to a third-party. Sales to private equity and management buyouts are also gaining attention with 31 percent of respondents exploring each. Intergenerational and family transfers were reported to be of interest to 44 percent of survey respondents.

With backlogs growing, but not explosively, competition increasing, and transactions top-of-mind, contractors should consider maximizing the value of their business. That is true whether or not a sale is the desired outcome. Stronger financial practices can preserve value and close the gaps that can otherwise derail lucrative opportunities.