Homeowners Focusing on Smaller Renos
Many homeowners are postponing big remodeling plans, choosing instead to complete smaller projects and rely more on professional contractors.
NEW YORK – With a reported 1% gain in comparable quarterly sales at Home Depot, it is clear that shoppers have not stopped thinking about renovation projects completely amid higher costs and tariffs.
Some are moving ahead with smaller projects that they pay for in cash, but Home Depot executives say that larger renovations are being postponed. The retailer, which once pledged not to raise prices due to tariffs, now expects modest increases in some categories, though half of its products are sourced domestically and not subject to tariffs.
To offset higher costs, the company is accelerating diversification of its supply chain and has reduced discounts on certain garden items. Foot traffic fell 2.6% year-over-year, but Home Depot has leaned on professional builders and contractors to counter softer do-it-yourself demand, expanding bulk supply and custom order offerings.
Source: Wall Street Journal (08/19/25) Miller, Nicholas
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