The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University reported that spending on home improvement projects rose from $328 billion in 2019 to $472 billion in 2022, and is projected to reach $485 billion by 2024.
According to City Business, of the 31% who haven’t attempted to remodel aspects of their home on their own, nearly half admit their fear got the best of them. They avoid even the attempt at renovations in case they might mess their home up. Other homeowners believe they need more skills than they have, or just don’t know where to start on the projects.
But that doesn’t mean Americans haven’t been willing to get their hands dirty. Many respondents have experience using the basics, such as tape measures, drills, levels, and even sanders.
“It’s no secret that home renovations can be intimidating but it’s encouraging to see so many American homeowners already attempting to remodel their homes to fit their unique needs and aesthetics,” says Jennifer Dionne, Vice President of Marketing at Bath Fitter. “The survey results found that of the respondents who have not attempted renovations, the top two rooms they’d feel most comfortable tackling include the bathroom and primary bedroom (19%). Renovations can seem daunting, however, there are updates you can make that are affordable, time-efficient, and beautiful.”
When asked about their biggest worry when it comes to home renovations, common themes such as “the time I need to finish it,” “the expense,” or “cost” were frequently repeated by homeowners thinking about a project. Others worry “that it won’t turn out right” or even that they’re “too old.”
This may be why a little more than half would rather hire a professional than tackle home renovations on their own or why another 57% of respondents admit that taking the DIY approach is too intimidating to tackle.
Kitchens and bathrooms are the two most popular rooms to renovate in homes. According to the 2024 U.S. Houzz & Home Study, about 29% of people renovate their kitchens, while another 25% to 27% renovate their primary and guest bathrooms.
A little more than two in five are dissatisfied with their bathroom’s state. For those respondents, the tub, shower, and the bathroom’s overall size are the top three areas that need work.
