Remember the golden age of home renovation?
Not too long ago, home renovation felt like one of the best careers in the world. During and shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic, demand surged as people spent more time at home and reimagined their living spaces. In 2020, even as the U.S. economy contracted by 3.5%, homeowners poured nearly $420 billion into renovations, driven by the need to accommodate work-from-home setups, online schooling, and enhanced leisure spaces.
This was 2021.
Fast forward to 2023, when the empire had fallen. Since then, several factors such as high interest rates, cooling home sales, and lower property prices have created headwinds for the industry. The pace of home remodeling has slowed, and many renovators are feeling the pinch.
Now, standing in 2025.
The market hasn’t disappeared. Instead, it has shifted, requiring us to adapt and embrace new strategies. Let’s explore practical, actionable ways to tap into today’s opportunities and build your client base.
1. Monetize Your Wisdom
The market may be tight, but there’s one thing you have that DIYers don’t: experience.
While many people now prefer taking on smaller projects themselves to save money, they often lack the technical know-how or the confidence to execute them well. This is where you come in. Not as a competitor, but as an ally.
Share Knowledge Online
Create step-by-step tutorials, short how-to videos, or infographics. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok are excellent for building an audience. Explain the nuances of common tasks, such as choosing the right paint finish, replacing tiles, or planning a functional kitchen layout.
Offer DIY Consulting Services
Just like a therapy session for DIY renovators.
Position yourself as an expert advisor. For a modest fee, offer one-on-one consultations to help DIYers plan their projects, choose materials, or troubleshoot issues.
2. Focus on Small-Scale Projects
While larger renovations are stalling, smaller ones are running forward. Many homeowners still want to make improvements but are focusing on projects under $5,000, which feel more manageable in today’s economy. According to industry surveys, about 70% of homeowners believe this is still a good time for small-scale upgrades.
Focus your marketing on cost-effective upgrades, such as:
- Installing new kitchen counters
- Upgrading to energy-efficient windows
- Bathroom renovation
- Refreshing interiors with a new coat of paint
- Adding smart lighting solutions to key areas
3. Go Sustainable
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a priority for many homeowners. Energy-efficient windows, solar panels, and sustainable materials cut costs long-term while increasing resale value. Position yourself as a green renovation expert to tap into this niche.
Depending on where a building is located, there are certificates that you can obtain for improving a green or eco-friendly house. A renovator who can make that happen rises above their competitors in any market condition.
4. Target the Right People
Say hello to baby boomers.
Your ideal clients might not be who you think. While younger homeowners might dominate social media, they’re not always the ones investing in renovations. Homeowners who have lived in their homes for a decade or more are often the best candidates.
Understand Their Motivations
Long-term homeowners are more likely to renovate than relocate. They’ve established roots in their neighborhood or have finally bought their ideal house. So it is natural that they’re looking to improve their current space rather than start over elsewhere.
Adapt Your Marketing Channels
These homeowners are less likely to be scrolling TikTok or Pinterest. Instead, focus on platforms like Facebook, where older demographics are more active. Blogging and SEO strategies that cater to local searches can also drive traffic.
5. Put Yourself Out There
Now, think bigger. Why limit yourself to one town or city? Build a presence that reaches beyond local boundaries.
Consider hiring a digital marketer if your budget allows. They can craft targeted ads, create consistent branding, and help you reach new audiences.
However, if resources are tight, focus on leveraging free tools effectively. Post consistently, interact with your followers, and follow trends closely.
Still, you can do something that pays off better.
To reach clients actively looking for renovation help, explore specialized platforms like Mindelia. We have built this platform and all its features exclusively for renovators and their clients. Features such as client matchmaking and lead generation tools connect you to serious clients without requiring heavy ad spending.
Why not give it a try?
6. Get Skilled at Smart Renovation
Smart home features are in demand, and mastering them can broaden your client base. Many homeowners now renovate with smart integration in mind, prioritizing upgrades like voice-controlled lighting, smart appliances, and home security systems.
Focus on learning how to integrate these technologies seamlessly. Highlight their practical benefits, like energy savings and convenience, to appeal to clients who value functionality over aesthetics.
Let’s Create a New Golden Era
It’s true. The market isn’t as easy as it once was. But that doesn’t mean you have to quit. The opportunities are still there; they just require new approaches and a willingness to adapt. By focusing on smaller projects, embracing sustainability, targeting the right audience, and leveraging technology, you can not only survive but flourish. Let’s turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s success. Ready to dive in?
