Utilizing Consumer Resources - Time, Energy, Money

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Home Trends by Melissa Birdsong

RISMEDIA, June 10, 2008-People are still engaging in home improvement, but they’re choosing projects that align with their resources.

In a recent survey, “having a home of your own” ranked third out of 15 key attributes of a good life, just behind good health and financial security-even ahead of a good marriage and having children. So even in times like these, it’s not hard to understand how the strong emotional connection to home keeps the desire to own, maintain and personalize alive.

Today, many homeowners are assessing home improvement projects by scrutinizing their resources-their time, talent and money-and by choosing an approach complementary to their means.

For example, little time, not much money? Doable projects are likely to fall into the “little effort/big reward” type, such as switching out cabinet hardware or changing non-attached home décor accents such as lamps and rugs.

More time, some talent, tight budget? That’s when the DIY mode kicks in and inspires the homeowner to move project dollars toward better finish materials and to leverage sweat equity vs. paid labor. Some of the easy-to-install, no-glue, hard-surface flooring products are perfect for this homeowner.

Less time, more money, no DIY desire? Now you’re moving to a “do it for me” situation where the homeowner still wants control over the product purchase but may choose to have the work done by someone else, especially when it comes to more complex projects. From bath remodeling to closet up-fits, this homeowner knows what he/she wants and will make the effort to get it done in order to achieve his/her vision of home.

Suggesting ways for homeowners to understand how to get the most from their resources-whether they’re fixing up to sell or considering a buy-helps keep their dream of home alive. And that kind of customer service is not only differentiating-it’s priceless.

Melissa Birdsong is vice president for Trend, Design & Brand, Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

For more information, visit www.lowes.com.

RISMedia welcomes your questions and comments. Send your e-mail to: realestatemagazinefeedback@rismedia.com.

For more Home Trends by Melissa Birdsong, don’t miss:

• Home Trends - Outdoor Living  
  Go Beyond Beige - Color vs. Neutral Schemes  
  Home Trends - To Each Is Home

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