Hardware Retailing The Industry's Source for Insights and Information
Homeowners who are planning to accommodate their own aging or that of close family members are more likely to invest in major master bath upgrades in their homes, according to recent research from the home improvement website Houzz.
In fact, nearly 60 percent of baby boomers made decisions about extensive master bathroom upgrades while considering current or future needs related to aging, the 2018 U.S. Houzz Bathroom Trends Study shows.
About 30 percent of study participants who are younger than age 54 also planned bathroom remodels to accommodate future health needs related to household members growing older.
Important master bath updates homeowners made to allow for aging in place included changing walls, modifying room layouts and removing bathtubs, according to the study.
Home improvement retailers can keep this insight in mind as they talk to customers who are investing in bathroom upgrades. They can be prepared to ask questions about the scope of the homeowners’ projects and how much they’re planning ahead for their future health and safety needs.
Potential declines in health aren’t the most fun conversation topics, but retailers can safely navigate the issue by politely asking customers how long they plan to live in their homes and whether they are considering issues such as shower accessibility as they grow older. Homeowners will remember if a retailer helped prevent headaches by helping remodelers understand their long-term living needs.
A few carefully worded questions can reinforce to customers that a business is a resource for help in planning ahead and reducing the need for additional remodels in the future.
