More than half of the members of Milwaukee/NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) Home Improvement Council Inc. say their companies had an increase in sales during the first half of 2007. ,"After a bit of a slowdown in 2006, we are pleased the majority of association members have experienced growth in the first half of 2007," said Scott Cline, president of Milwaukee/NARI Home Improvement Council. "As the inventory of existing houses continues to age, home renovation continues to be a popular choice for area consumers."
Eighty-two Milwaukee-area members responded to NARI’s semi-annual Industry Activity Questionnarie. In the first half of 2007, nearly 54 percent of those responding said business was up this year, while 11 percent said it was flat. Of the respondents that reported an increase in sales, almost 66 percent said sales were up at least 10 percent when compared with the first half of 2006. Over the past 12 months, 59 percent of the respondents said there was an increase in the average project cost completed for homeowners, while 29 percent said the project cost remained the same.
Lower level/basement remodels, as well as home additions and outdoor living areas, continue to be popular, as consumers desire more living and entertainment space, according to survey respondents. Contractors responding to the survey indicate that homeowners are adding bathrooms and bedrooms to homes. Homeowners are seeking more complete systems, especially as they relate to HVAC and audio/video. The use of environmentally friendly "green" remodeling products is gaining in popularity, according to survey respondents.
Homeowners are seeking ease of maintenance relating to a home’s exterior, focusing on energy efficient windows, maintenance-free siding and roofing, and covers for gutters to prevent clogging, according to the survey respondents. Contractors continue to generate most of their business from referrals (59 percent) and previous customers (41 percent), with increased marketing (40 percent) being used by contractors to reach consumers, according to the survey respondents.
