Is remodeling slowing down going into 2027? The numbers show homeowners are still spending heavily on renovations, but they’re becoming more careful about which projects they take on, how much they spend, and how they compare contractor proposals.

In this episode of Real Talk Remodeling with Merlino Consulting, I break down what the latest remodeling data means for homeowners, including projected remodeling spending, changing renovation budgets, why so many projects go over budget, and why comparing contractor proposals based only on price can be a costly mistake.

I also walk through three things homeowners should focus on before starting a remodel: clearly defining the project, leaving room in the budget for unknowns, and comparing the actual scope of work instead of simply choosing the lowest number.

If you're planning a remodel, you can use my free Remodeling Planning Workbook to organize your project and create a clearer scope before reaching out to contractors:

https://merlinoconsultants.com/remodeling-planning-system/

For remodeling consulting, planning, scope development, plan sets, proposal reviews, and contractor comparisons, visit:

https://www.merlinoconsultants.com

If you'd like to support the channel, you can also use the Buy Me a Coffee link below or scan the QR code in the video.
http://buymeacoffee.com/PietroMerlino

Plan Smart, Build Well, and Let's Raise the Standard Together.

CHECK MY AMAZON AFILIATE LINKS BELOW!

Affiliate Disclosure
Just a quick heads-up! Some of the links I share are Amazon Affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission if you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links.
The good news is that it doesn't cost you a penny more, the price you pay stays exactly the same. Amazon simply sends me a small commission for referring you.
Every purchase made through my affiliate links helps support the show, keeps the content coming, and maybe even helps keep the coffee pot full! Your support allows me to continue creating videos, reviews, and other content that I hope you enjoy.
Thank you for your trust, your support, and for choosing to use my links. It truly means a lot, and I'm grateful to have you as part of this community!

WHAT I PERSONALLY USE
Sony ZV-1F Vlogging Camera Bundle.
https://amzn.to/3TzEJBB

WHAT I PERSONALLY USE
FIFINE Studio Monitor Headphones.
https://amzn.to/4eZPTbh

WHAT I PERSONALLY USE
Focusrite Vocaster Two, Podcasting Interface.
https://amzn.to/4fzWOIk

WHAT I PERSONALLY USE
MAONO XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone Kit.
https://amzn.to/3SZT0HE

RECOMMENDED CAMERA UPGRADE
Sony Alpha ZV-E10 - APS-C Mirrorless Vlog Camera Kit.
https://amzn.to/44oqjXp

SIMILAR TO WHAT I PERSONALLY USE
Elgato Prompter XL, Full-Sized Teleprompter, Removable | 15.6-inch detachable Full HD display.
https://amzn.to/4gCgPiC

UPDATED VERSION TO WHAT I PERSONALLY USE
Zoom H1 Essential Handheld Recorder for Musicians, Podcasters & Filmmakers https://amzn.to/450sKzv

RECOMMENDED AI VOICE RECORDER
Pocket AI Voice Recorder & Smart Assistant – Auto Transcription, Summaries & Action Items – AI Note Taker for Meetings, Calls & Productivity - Space Grey
https://amzn.to/4bbIHqn

Thinking about replacing a tub with a shower, or installing a tub where you currently have a shower?

The finished fixture is only part of the project.

In Episode 15 of Real Talk Remodeling with Merlino Consulting, I walk through a real shower-to-tub conversion and explain some of the work homeowners may never see once the bathroom is finished, including plumbing changes, drain relocation, concrete work, waterproofing, tile repairs, permits, and more.

I also talk about why two contractors can price what sounds like the same bathroom conversion very differently, why matching existing tile can affect the scope, and what to consider before removing the only tub in your home.

The biggest takeaway: don’t compare contractor prices until you understand what each proposal actually includes.

If you’re planning a remodel and want help organizing your project before you start calling contractors, check out my free Remodeling Planning Workbook:

https://merlinoconsultants.com/remodeling-planning-system/

For remodeling consulting, scope development, plan sets, proposal reviews, and contractor comparisons:

https://www.merlinoconsultants.com

Questions or consulting inquiries:
peter@merlinoconsultants.com

If you found the episode helpful, please like the video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone planning a remodel.

Support the channel through the Buy Me a Coffee link below.

https://buymeacoffee.com/PietroMerlino

Plan Smart, Build Well, and Let's Raise the Standard Together.

Before choosing the lowest remodeling bid, make sure you’re actually comparing the same project. In this episode, Pietro Merlino explains how scope, allowances, materials, exclusions, and potential change orders can create major differences between contractor quotes, and why the lowest bid isn’t always the wrong choice.