Love the Home You're In?

The Psychological Appeal of Remodeling

And if you can't be with the one you love
Love the one you're with
Love the one you're with

--lyric, Crosby Stills Nash & Young

How is the recession affecting people's spending?

For one thing, they're doing a lot less of it (logical, if you're making less, have less, etc.).

For another, in a time of stress, people seem to be seeking out things that are familiar -- and avoiding (still more) change. (2012 Presidential slogan: 'Enough Change Already!')

So, while moving seems like a big decision, my guess is that remodeling seems less daunting -- even if the total dollars involved are about the same (a major remodel can easily trip $100k or more).

The net result? Instead of looking for their dream home, more people are trying to create it, right where they are . . .