Owners of Small Remodeling Companies: We're Happy

Owners and managers of small (20 or fewer employees) remodeling and repair companies in the U.S. said that, overall, they have a positive outlook about the industry and the amount of work they have in the pipeline for the rest of the year, according to the Pro’s Perspective: Job Satisfaction Report conducted by Stanley, the company known for its yellow and black tools.

The company conducted its survey between April 25 and May 3 and had 500 respondents reveal their anticipated workload this year, the types of projects their clients are pursuing, and job sentiment and satisfaction. Here’s are some of their responses: 

The Market for Renovations and Repairs Remains Strong

• 95% of residential pros are satisfied with their volume of work in 2024 and 2025.
• Most expect their clients to maintain their commitments in 2025, placing them among the more optimistic in the construction industry.
• 69% said their clients are increasing the size of their projects this year.
• 36% are concerned about the cost of materials.
• 30% are concerned about the cost of labor.
• 27% worry about maintaining their reputation.
• Nearly 25% are concerned about the state of the economy.
• About 25% said they are concerned about work-life balance, staying healthy enough to keep working, retaining skilled workers, and getting paid on time.

Project Scope and Scale

• About half of the homes on which they work are valued between $250,000 and $499,000, and 21% are valued between $500,000 and $749,000. Most are in good or excellent condition.
• Most of the projects fall between $10,000 and $19,000; 17% are between $5,000 and $9,000.

Clients Want High-End Upgrades

• 93% said their clients are interested in high-end design projects.
• The most popular high-end exterior projects are luxury patios and outdoor living rooms and kitchens.
• The highest-priority interior remodeling projects are kitchen and bathrooms, with 81% saying a full or partial kitchen remodel was a priority for their clients and 79% saying a full or partial bathroom was so. Additional remodeling priorities included living rooms and basements.

Residential Pros Report High Job Satisfaction

• 85% of respondents said they are satisfied with their roles, a high rate among U.S. workers (job satisfaction rates for U.S. workers vary greatly, from 65% to 88%), and 95% say they are satisfied with their volume of work this year.
• A large percentage of residential pros are positive about their career choice. They report being satisfied in their role as pro/tradesperson (85%); find pleasure and fulfillment in their work (86%); and say financial benefits are worth their efforts (82%).
• Most feel respected and appreciated by their clients and society alike.
• 64% said clients show their appreciation by making referrals. Other ways clients show their appreciation: writing positive online reviews and asking them to do more work. Some get offered lunch and beverages.