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Home improvement spending to decline faster in 2024, says Harvard report

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. – Annual expenditures for improvements and repairs to owner-occupied homes are expected to decline at an accelerating rate through the first half of 2024, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) released today by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University . The LIRA projects that year-over-year spending on homeowner improvements and maintenance will shrink by 2.7% through the first quarter of next year and by 5.9% through the second quarter, following a slowdown in growth that began in the final quarter of 2022. “Home remodeling activity continues to face strong headwinds from high…
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6 home renovations that don’t need planning permission

Not all home renovations require planning permission. In some cases, the rigor of applying to your local authority for planning permission would be out of proportion with the impact of the works carried out. These projects fall under what are called permitted development rightswhich allows for the improvement or extension of homes without the need to make a planning application. So, do you need planning permission for a garden room, porch, conservatory, kitchen extension or loft conversion? Or even for new windows or doors? Read on to find out. Be inspired to make home improvements. Sign up for our Home…
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Home improvement retailer PIRCH hopes to build success in Santa Monica

Santa Monica’s profitable and economically important home improvement industry will get a new fixture next year when PIRCH moves into town offering high end home design and furnishings on Santa Monica Blvd. PIRCH will open at 2520 Santa Monica Blvd in the former Goodwill building early next year and CEO Steve Smith said it’s a perfect location for his company as it continues to expand into the Los Angeles market. “We are thrilled to bring the PIRCH experience to the heart of Santa Monica. Our goal is to provide the best service possible to discerning consumers and trade partners, knowing…