Hello. My name is Erik Martin and I am a reporter for a nationally syndicated real estate section published weekly in newspapers across the country (see current examples at gmnews.com/?s=%22by+erik+j.+martin%22). I’m looking to interview remodeling experts, realtors/agents, lending professionals, and housing industry experts for the following article:
A RETURN TO REMODELING NORMALCY: WHY REMODELING BUDGETS ARE EXPECTED TO INCREASE, AND WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN THE FIX-IT TREND. The Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University found that, over the coming year, homeowner remodeling activity is expected to accelerate, keeping the rate of growth above its long-term trend (growth in home improvement and repair expenditures will reach 8.0% by the start of 2017, well in excess of its 4.9% historical average; details at jchs.harvard.edu/above-average-gains-home-renovation-and-repair-spending-expected-continue). This story will explore the key findings, what they mean to homeowners, and why homeowners may want to consider budgeting for and tackling remodeling projects they've put off in recent years. Below is a list of questions I’m seeking answers to. I can either conduct a phone or email interview (with the latter, please email me back full-sentence written responses that I can use as quotes). My deadline is noon central, Thursday, August 11.
QUESTIONS: 1. What are the key findings of the aforementioned report that homeowners should take notice of? How/why does this affect them, and why should it get them thinking about remodeling? 2. How are the aforementioned findings a good sign for the housing market and economy in general? 3. Why do you believe that homeowner remodeling activity is anticipated to increase? What factors are responsible for the uptick in remodeling budgets lately? 4. Why should homeowners today possibly consider budgeting for and tackling remodeling projects they’ve put off in recent years? What are the advantages of pursuing a remodeling project now vs. a few years ago (e.g., better return on investment/resale value? More disposable income to use? Continued low interest rates/costs to borrow $) 5. What are some relatively safe home remodeling projects homeowners can consider that offer higher return on investment/payback potential? Can you provide an example that includes costs and expected ROI? 6. Any other thoughts, tips or suggestions on this topic? 7. What is your full name, title, company, city/state location, and email address?
Keywords
realtors/agents, lending professionals, housing industry experts
