Being at home has caused consumers to look around their living space and the exterior of their homes with critical eyes. So, while many industries are on pause, home services, builders, and contractors have an opportunity to provide clients with help on projects they’ve been putting off until now. We’ve put together some ideas from our observations of the market:
Let consumers know you’re open for business:
With many people at home, it may not be obvious that you are available for projects. Communicate with your current customers and potential clients about your services. Some project trends we’re seeing in the area include:
- New construction/remodels: New homes, additions, whole-house remodels, new sunrooms, and many updated kitchens and baths.
- Second homeowners preparing for a summer arrival: We’re hearing that many snowbirds are delaying their return to the Cape for a month or two. It’s a perfect segment to address, especially as their home is vacant.
- Outdoor projects: With more time being spent outdoors, outdoor projects will be a big trend, including three-season rooms, screened porches, decks, fire pits and driveways. Landscaping and pest control will become more urgent as the season gets warmer.
- Structural issues: Consumers are more willing to address major projects or safety hazards that cannot be ignored: doors, foundations, windows, and roofs.
Ensure a robust online presence:
With social distancing keeping people out of showrooms, consumers are looking for online information, inspiration, products to order, and your company’s reviews. Make sure your website, social media, and Google My Business listing are up to date and compelling.
Reassure clients about your social distancing and hygiene practices:
Some companies are careful about asking for keys to be left in a lock box or ensuring the house is vacant before commencing work. Consumers want to know about your crew’s use of masks and gloves, and your sanitizing practices.
Try new technologies:
To kick off a project, there are many ways to assess a job and craft an estimate via phone conferencing, photos from the client’s phone, and video conferencing. An app called ‘Builder Trend’ allows clients to see and keep track of the progress their project and video calls such as Zoom or Facetime can show clients the progress visually. One local business is offering “How To” one-hour webinars for customers on different remodeling projects.
Offer financial incentives:
For people in financial need, perhaps offer deferred payment plans or special financing rates.
Together, we can get through this difficult time and be stronger for it.