4 Signs You're a Houseaholic

Houseaholism is a condition that positively affects millions of homeowners each year - leading to successful renovation projects, inspired interior design, and an overall rise in homeowner happiness. There appears to be no cure, and the vast majority of experts don't believe they should start working on one. Think you might be a houseaholic? You could be if you're displaying any of the following symptoms..

• According to a recent HomeAdvisor survey, 34% of homeowners spend between four and seven hours per week working on home improvement and maintenance projects. During the summer, 49% spend that time working on landscaping projects. If you find yourself spending the bulk of your weekend working on your yard it might be time to talk to a lawn-care professional to get the help you need to free up your weekend.



• While remodeling your kitchen or bathroom doesn't make you a houseaholic, tackling the job on your own certainly does. While the majority of homeowners contract the job out to a skilled kitchen or bath professional, 38% of homeowners choose to do the job themselves.



• Did you know that 43% of homeowners spend more than three months planning their remodels? If you find yourself in this situation, you can speed up the planning process by establishing and sticking to a budget, identifying the style or styles that you want to design to, and, most important, finding the right contractor as early in the process as possible. More than just a hired hand, a great contractor is a trusted ally who will help you with the project from start to finish.



• Do you spend most of your time watching home improvement shows? Houseaholics do. In fact, that's how 46% of our survey respondents researched their next home improvement projects. What's more, 30% of homeowners consider themselves capable do-it-yourselfers. Interestingly enough, only 20% think their partner has the skills to competently do the job. Thankfully, a handyman can help.



• When it comes to funding their home projects houseaholics are serious savers. 36% postpone vacations, 37% reduce their entertainment expenditures, 59% trim the shopping extravaganzas, and 42% simply stop going out to eat as much. But just because you're saving for a project doesn't mean you have to trim all the fun from your budget - especially when HomeAdvisor's Cost Guide can help you get a clear picture of how much you can expect to pay for your project.




For most homeowners it's not a question of if they'll become houseaholics, but when. That's the fun of being a homeowner.

Kitchen Remodeling Project Guide
If you enjoyed this article, check out our free Kitchen Remodeling Guide, which features expert advice, design & material comparisons, and custom price estimates for your remodeling project.