More than half of homeowners, 52 percent, who were in the midst of a home renovation or design project when the coronavirus pandemic was declared on March 11, 2020, were able to continue with their renovations, according to a report from Houzz. The survey of nearly 1,000 U.S. homeowners using Houzz, found that only one percent cancelled an ongoing project. Of the 47 percent of homeowners who put their projects on hold, two in five felt their project was not urgent and could resume at a later date. The study also found 79 percent of homeowners are considering major home remodeling and design projects.
Homeowners in the south and west regions of the U.S. were the most likely to continue with current projects amidst the pandemic, whereas homeowners in the midwest and northeast regions were less likely to move forward with in-progress activities.
“Homeowners and the professionals working on their projects are taking health concerns very seriously. While many projects have continued during this time, the northeast region was most affected, which is not surprising given the pandemic’s significant impact in that area,” says Marine Sargsyan, Houzz senior economist. “Personal health and safety, as well as that of the professionals working in their homes, were top considerations for homeowners, but, less than half of those with unfinished projects put their project on hold. We’re also hearing from our pro community that certain projects are able to restart as shelter in place orders are becoming more relaxed and lifted completely in some areas.”
Three quarters of homeowners on Houzz with ongoing residential renovation and design projects are working with home professionals. Many homeowners reported they find it helpful to utilize online tools for shopping, remote communication, contract approvals and invoicing and payments, in order to move their projects forward during the pandemic.
