Construction input prices increased 0.3% in October compared to the previous month, according to an Associated Builders and Contractors analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Producer Price Index data released today. Nonresidential construction input prices also increased 0.3% for the month. According to Associated Builders and Contractors, prices increased in all three energy subcategories last month. Natural gas prices increased by 29.3%, unprocessed energy materials prices rose 9.9% and crude petroleum prices advanced by 7.3%. Overall construction input prices are 0.2% lower than a year ago, while nonresidential construction…
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Who Hires Pros and How Much Are They Spending to Complete Those DIFM Projects in 2024?
Homeowners rely heavily on professional services for ongoing maintenance and repair tasks with many opting for DIFM (Do It For Me) projects due to a lack of tools, skills, or time. Demographically, four key homeowner segments regularly hire professionals: affluent young homeowners, affluent middle-aged homeowners, middle-income seniors and low-income seniors. According to the Home Improvement Research Institute, these groups invest significantly in DIFM projects, particularly for tasks like roof repairs and plumbing. Remodelers can capitalize on this by offering service plans and warranties to push through homeowners’ concerns about cost…
Read MoreRemodel of the Week: 2024 National / Regional CotY Award Winner, Entire House Over $1,000,000
Creating a contemporary space with room for guests while preserving the original architecture of their childhood lakeside home was key for these homeowners. A main level expansion made room for a primary suite and music room and removing a wall between the kitchen and dining room allowed for a vaulted ceiling. Read more
Read MorePros Expect an End-of-Year Rebound Following Slowed Activity
“Home remodeling and design professionals are optimistic as the year draws to a close, with more firms anticipating an increase in business activity than a decrease in the final quarter of 2024. This follows an overall decline in business activity in the third quarter of the year. Meanwhile, wait times in the industry are similar to last year’s and hovering around historic averages..” Read more
Read MoreMortgage Delinquencies Decrease Slightly in the Third Quarter of 2024, Up on Annual Basis
A recent survey from the Mortgage Bankers Association indicates a slight decline in the mortgage delinquency rate to 3.93% by the end of Q3 2024. However the rate remains 30 basis points higher than a year ago. Early-stage (30-day) delinquencies saw a modest decrease, while more serious delinquencies (60-day and 90-day+) continued to rise across all loan types. Read more
Read MoreDisaster Survivors Face These Roadblocks to Rebuild Safer, More Sustainable Homes
Pricey sustainable rebuilds, insurance hesitancy, and a thinly stretched Federal Emergency budget are just some of the roadblocks survivors face when rebuilding their homes after a disaster. Read more
Read MoreConstruction Job Openings Fall Post-Helene
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that open construction jobs decreased by 288,000 on the last day of September. Read more
Read MoreFour Practical Ways to Reduce Construction Costs Without Hurting Quality
“Managing costs without compromising on quality is a primary concern for contractors. Effective construction cost management involves strategic planning, accurate estimation and efficient billing processes. By implementing these practical strategies, contractors can optimize their resources, enhance project efficiency and maintain high standards of quality.” Read more
Read MoreWhat’s the Best Time of Year to Renovate?
“Weather, cost, holidays and work come into play when thinking about the best time of year to complete a home renovation project.” In this article RenoFi weighs the pros and cons for home remodels for each season. Read more
Read MoreU.S. Home Improvement Analysis Report 2024: A $615.58 Billion Market by 2029, Fueled by Rising Demand for Personalization and Customization, & Smart Home Technology Integration
The U.S. Home Improvement Market is projected to reach $615 billion by 2029, rising at a CAGR of 2.78%. Dominating the market is the South region, with its rapid population growth, numerous single-family home builds, and warm climate. Homeowners in this region are more likely to invest in a variety of outdoor features, including pools, gardens, and patios, as well as energy-efficient home systems that create ease and improve security. Read more
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