Compared with previous years, the home improvement market has seen an increase in both spending and volume. The market is divided into various segments such as contractors, landscapers, plumbers, electricians, and hardware store supplies. The most popular categories include work outside the home, like a backyard deck or fence.
Major vendors compete on price, premiumization, and differentiation. The industry has also seen the entry of private labels and new players. These have pushed competition to new heights.
A survey conducted by Axiom, a marketing firm in Minneapolis, asked consumers about recent projects they’ve carried out, accomplishments, and plans for future projects. It found that homeowners who plan to remodel a home in the next three years are more likely to focus on projects that involve the outdoors. They are also more likely to consider hiring a professional for all or part of the project. The study found that more than one-third of homeowners plan to do some DIY work.
Although the majority of consumers plan to spend more on home improvements than in recent years, a smaller percentage of respondents plan to spend the same amount of money. The majority of consumers are focused on maximizing the value of their homes, while others are simply doing projects for their own tastes.
The number of individuals putting up fencing or building decks has exploded. In fact, construction has grown 275% from March to July. In addition, the demand for at-home entertainment areas has increased. Another trend is the emergence of niche services. These are related to specific needs, such as fire protection, or safety products that protect loved ones.
Homeowners are also planning to take advantage of tax-deductible home improvement projects in 2021. About one-third of the survey respondents planned to use a home equity loan or line of credit to pay for home upgrades. Some of these improvements, such as a new septic system, may be deductible only in the year of the sale of the home.
Despite these challenges, the home improvement industry remains robust. In 2021, home improvement spending is expected to increase by about 4%, to $420 billion. This is the highest home improvement spending in the past seven years, according to the Angi Institute, which tracks the industry.
A study by the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies predicts that the home remodeling industry will experience a peak in the first two months of the year. It’s estimated that the total amount of home improvement spending will reach $510 billion by 2024.
A good home improvement plan can pay for itself over time. Ideally, it should add to the overall quality of life and increase the value of the home. But be sure to keep your budget in mind.
As home improvement costs continue to rise, the best way to ensure your investment is a wise one is to shop around. Whether you’re buying a new couch or updating your bathroom fixtures, you should find a home improvement store that offers the products and services you need.