Homeowners all over the country regularly postpone major repairs for their home. The reasons varies by state and the type of repairs.
This survey gather the reasons why homeowners delay home repairs and which repairs are delayed across the country.
Updated: May 20, 2024
Survey topics:
:: Key Findings ::
- > 25% of homeowners have to delay major home repairs across the country and 39% of homeowners who delay repair are in the bottom 20% income in their State.
- > Commons items delayed are often the most expensive, such as windows with 30% or roof with 31%, while some structural (electrical with 14% and plumbing with 18%) or primordial in most climate (HVAC and furnaces with 11%) are taken care first.
- > Roof and windows repairs are delayed more often in the South, probably due to their cost and the fact they degrade faster in those climates. Less costly but more troublesome like indoor paint is also commonly delayed.
- > Among major repair or replacement, windows, roofing and plumbing are the most common upgrades or repairs in the next 3 years.
- > 55% of homeowners who delay major repair for financial reasons. This is also higher in states with lower income homeowners like Alabama with 63% and Louisiana with 63% but also high in California with 59%.
- > Paying those major repair is a big problem for most homeowners. Almost half of homeowners (42%) have to delay doing repairs since they can’t afford it. While the balance pay with credit card (26%), personal loan (14%) or savings (12%).
Methodology: We surveyed 4,729 homeowners community members online throughout January and February 2024. This survey was done to gather reasons why homeowners have to delay repairs and which home repairs are delayed. The answers were multiple choice answers.
1/4 of Homeowners Need To Delay Major Repairs
25% of homeowners have to postpone major repairs due to varying reason across the country.
The proportion of homeowners having to delay big repairs varies a lot across the country. It reflect the disparity of income for homeowners throughout America but also regional climate and its impact on homes.
Question: Do you need to postpone a major home repair this year?
Source: MFP’s 2024 Homeowners Major Repairs Survey.
Which Major Repairs Are Postponed?
Overall procrastination? Not really. A significant portion of homeowners across all states are deferring necessary maintenance or repair tasks. In some types of repair it maybe procrastination but for most it is also due to their cost (roof, windows), complexity (foundations) or it requires changes to your daily life (ex: interior paint).
General Repairs Trends
Common deferred repairs: Interior paint (34%), window repairs (30%), and floor repairs (26%) are the most commonly postponed repairs, with percentages ranging from 15% to 40%. This suggests that many homeowners are delaying tasks related to the aesthetics (less urgent) and basic structural integrity of their homes (due to cost).
Less deferred repair: Repairs such as HVAC/furnace and foundation repairs are less frequently postponed, with percentages generally below 20%. This indicate homeowners prioritize addressing issues that directly affect comfort and safety.
Repairs Trends Across States
Interior paint and window repairs: These repairs, important to maintain a comfortable and visually appealing homes, are consistently among the most deferred across all states. Windows (30%) because of their cost and interior paint (18%) for disturbance to daily life.
Floor repairs: Delays in floor repairs are also widespread with 26%, indicating potential safety hazards or discomfort due to a damaged floor.
Electrical and Plumbing Repairs: While still less postponed than others, postponing these repairs could pose significant safety risks, may the need for increased awareness and prioritization of electrical and plumbing maintenance (and offering more aid to homeowners who can’t afford it).
Roof and Siding Repairs: Despite being critical for protecting the home from the elements, roof (31%) and siding repairs (24%) are deferred by a notable portion of homeowners in many states.
Outdoor Repairs While outdoor repairs encompass a wide range of tasks, the percentages (17%) suggest that tasks related to outdoor maintenance are also frequently postponed.
HVAC/Furnace and Foundation Repairs: These repairs, although less commonly deferred compared to others, still see a significant portion (10% and 11%) of homeowners delaying necessary maintenance, potentially impacting energy efficiency and structural integrity.
There is a concerning trend of homeowners delaying essential maintenance tasks, potentially leading to further deterioration of their homes and increased repair costs in the future.
Question: Among the following major repairs you want to do, which one(s) do you have to delay?
| Interior Paint | Window | Floor | Electrical | Plumbing | Roof | Exterior Paint | Outdoor | Siding | HVAC/ furnace | Foundation | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All states | 34% | 30% | 26% | 14% | 18% | 31% | 18% | 17% | 24% | 11% |
10% |
| Alabama | 28% | 21% | 29% | 12% | 22% | 27% | 24% | 21% | 22% | 12% | 15% |
| Alaska | 29% | 23% | 16% | 16% | 18% | 29% | 13% | 17% | 29% | 19% | 15% |
| Arizona | 33% | 33% | 17% | 9% | 14% | 33% | 18% | 20% | 14% | 18% | 6% |
| Arkansas | 37% | 35% | 24% | 17% | 19% | 30% | 21% | 15% | 28% | 18% | 5% |
| California | 30% | 23% | 15% | 12% | 14% | 24% | 22% | 9% | 21% | 9% | 15% |
| Colorado | 32% | 35% | 27% | 18% | 17% | 33% | 22% | 12% | 18% | 18% | 16% |
| Connecticut | 32% | 31% | 16% | 11% | 20% | 31% | 24% | 23% | 17% | 16% | 14% |
| Delaware | 36% | 22% | 31% | 13% | 22% | 25% | 13% | 17% | 15% | 18% | 13% |
| DC | 38% | 26% | 31% | 13% | 15% | 36% | 24% | 15% | 14% | 18% | 16% |
| Florida | 30% | 27% | 15% | 18% | 16% | 30% | 21% | 18% | 14% | 18% | 6% |
| Georgia | 38% | 21% | 17% | 17% | 18% | 33% | 15% | 23% | 33% | 16% | 5% |
| Hawaii | 38% | 29% | 22% | 16% | 17% | 30% | 20% | 23% | 32% | 8% | 8% |
| Idaho | 38% | 28% | 25% | 14% | 22% | 25% | 23% | 9% | 30% | 11% | 6% |
| Illinois | 35% | 22% | 24% | 16% | 19% | 29% | 19% | 17% | 17% | 5% | 12% |
| Indiana | 29% | 32% | 20% | 15% | 16% | 31% | 21% | 11% | 17% | 14% | 14% |
| Iowa | 29% | 32% | 16% | 10% | 17% | 32% | 13% | 20% | 28% | 7% | 10% |
| Kansas | 32% | 22% | 25% | 11% | 14% | 25% | 18% | 24% | 34% | 13% | 15% |
| Kentucky | 36% | 21% | 35% | 17% | 14% | 28% | 22% | 14% | 18% | 12% | 11% |
| Louisiana | 37% | 21% | 31% | 14% | 18% | 35% | 12% | 20% | 18% | 6% | 8% |
| Maine | 35% | 31% | 19% | 17% | 17% | 32% | 18% | 19% | 22% | 9% | 10% |
| Maryland | 36% | 32% | 29% | 14% | 18% | 27% | 22% | 12% | 33% | 6% | 13% |
| Massachusetts | 35% | 20% | 24% | 18% | 20% | 33% | 20% | 10% | 32% | 14% | 9% |
| Michigan | 37% | 38% | 17% | 17% | 19% | 25% | 18% | 11% | 21% | 5% | 11% |
| Minnesota | 33% | 21% | 35% | 18% | 16% | 34% | 21% | 10% | 29% | 8% | 15% |
| Mississippi | 34% | 40% | 31% | 18% | 17% | 35% | 22% | 23% | 34% | 9% | 6% |
| Missouri | 37% | 23% | 24% | 19% | 15% | 26% | 21% | 10% | 16% | 16% | 11% |
| Montana | 39% | 25% | 17% | 14% | 18% | 24% | 15% | 9% | 29% | 16% | 12% |
| Nebraska | 32% | 23% | 23% | 9% | 15% | 30% | 16% | 19% | 26% | 12% | 11% |
| Nevada | 30% | 34% | 26% | 16% | 21% | 33% | 14% | 12% | 32% | 13% | 9% |
| New Hampshire | 27% | 30% | 18% | 19% | 21% | 27% | 12% | 11% | 29% | 14% | 16% |
| New Jersey | 39% | 34% | 28% | 18% | 19% | 33% | 14% | 24% | 20% | 18% | 10% |
| New Mexico | 36% | 29% | 30% | 12% | 21% | 36% | 23% | 19% | 26% | 17% | 8% |
| New York | 27% | 37% | 33% | 16% | 20% | 33% | 24% | 14% | 28% | 12% | 12% |
| North Carolina | 38% | 26% | 21% | 14% | 20% | 27% | 19% | 20% | 22% | 17% | 13% |
| North Dakota | 30% | 27% | 33% | 16% | 14% | 30% | 12% | 12% | 15% | 11% | 8% |
| Ohio | 36% | 29% | 32% | 14% | 22% | 29% | 16% | 17% | 29% | 9% | 10% |
| Oklahoma | 31% | 32% | 20% | 19% | 18% | 37% | 21% | 21% | 31% | 11% | 13% |
| Oregon | 38% | 26% | 22% | 18% | 18% | 35% | 19% | 17% | 15% | 16% | 11% |
| Pennsylvania | 29% | 24% | 27% | 10% | 16% | 35% | 21% | 22% | 32% | 17% | 6% |
| Rhode Island | 34% | 24% | 25% | 16% | 17% | 27% | 20% | 9% | 27% | 15% | 14% |
| South Carolina | 30% | 27% | 27% | 10% | 19% | 27% | 12% | 24% | 18% | 12% | 11% |
| South Dakota | 29% | 38% | 23% | 12% | 17% | 28% | 20% | 21% | 33% | 17% | 13% |
| Tennessee | 39% | 28% | 17% | 9% | 17% | 31% | 19% | 9% | 26% | 8% | 10% |
| Texas | 38% | 37% | 32% | 16% | 14% | 33% | 19% | 20% | 23% | 7% | 13% |
| Utah | 37% | 29% | 19% | 14% | 14% | 30% | 18% | 9% | 29% | 8% | 14% |
| Vermont | 39% | 36% | 35% | 9% | 15% | 26% | 12% | 21% | 29% | 11% | 16% |
| Virginia | 34% | 21% | 34% | 18% | 22% | 27% | 20% | 9% | 19% | 10% | 15% |
| Washington | 27% | 40% | 26% | 18% | 15% | 34% | 14% | 16% | 18% | 10% | 15% |
| West Virginia | 36% | 20% | 31% | 16% | 16% | 39% | 20% | 20% | 30% | 9% | 10% |
| Wisconsin | 37% | 39% | 18% | 9% | 15% | 31% | 20% | 19% | 14% | 13% | 15% |
| Wyoming | 32% | 32% | 20% | 13% | 14% | 33% | 24% | 15% | 32% | 11% | 16% |
Source: MFP’s 2024 Homeowners Major Repairs Survey.
Major Repairs Planned In The Next 3 Years
Major repairs homeowners planned within the next 3 years varies greatly across the country. Regional and items cost are the main factors of the differences.
Windows replacement: Among homeowners who intent to replace something on their home, replacing windows is quite high across the board, with 34% of homeowners having this goal.
Roof replacement: Similarly, roof replacement is a common goal. 33% of homeowners who are looking to repair or replace something on their home are looking to replace their roofs.
Plumbing and electrical: Plumbing and electrical replacements are also significant, with 32% and 18% of homeowners considering these upgrades, respectively.
HVAC/furnace: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems replacement is also notable, with 16% of homeowners planning to replace something are planning to do HVAC.
Siding and other replacements: Siding replacements and other miscellaneous replacements have lower percentages compared to the previous categories, with 14% and 3% of homeowners intending to replace them, respectively.
Repair trends for each category across different states:
Windows replacement: Major States like Florida, South Carolina and smaller ones such as South Dakota, and Maine have particularly high percentages of homeowners planning repairs will replace their windows (above 40%). On the opposite, states like Illinois, Massachusetts, and Michigan have relatively lower percentages in this regard (below 30%).
Roof replacement: States like California, Texas, Kansas, and Iowa show high percentages of homeowners who plan to do major work are planning roof replacements (around 40%), while states like Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and New Jersey have lower percentages (below 25%).
Plumbing: Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska exhibit higher percentages of homeowners planning repairs will replace plumbing (above 30%), whereas states like Massachusetts, Nevada, and New York have lower percentages (below 25%).
Electrical: Delaware, Maryland, and Nevada have higher percentages of homeowners planning repairs will do electrical replacements (above 20%), while states like Georgia, Kentucky, and Missouri have lower percentages (below 15%).
HVAC/furnace: States like Georgia, New Mexico, and Texas have higher percentages of homeowners planning repairs intend to replace HVAC systems (above 20%), while states like Hawaii, Maryland, and Nebraska have lower percentages (below 12%).
Siding and other replacements: Trends for siding and other replacements vary more widely across states, with no consistent patterns observed.
Overall, the data highlights varying preferences and priorities among homeowners planning repairs across different states, reflecting regional differences in housing, climate considerations, economic factors, and other variables influencing home improvement decisions.
Question: Among the major changes below, which one(s) do you intend to do within the next 3 years?
| Windows | Roof | Plumbing | Electrical | HVAC/furnace | Siding | Other | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All states | 36% | 31% | 31% | 18% | 16% | 15% |
6% |
| Alabama | 35% | 24% | 28% | 16% | 16% | 17% | 6% |
| Alaska | 38% | 36% | 28% | 19% | 19% | 8% | 9% |
| Arizona | 36% | 25% | 30% | 24% | 14% | 8% | 3% |
| Arkansas | 35% | 34% | 30% | 23% | 10% | 15% | 2% |
| California | 33% | 38% | 28% | 21% | 15% | 18% | 6% |
| Colorado | 39% | 33% | 26% | 20% | 16% | 15% | 5% |
| Connecticut | 31% | 26% | 33% | 14% | 18% | 16% | 11% |
| Delaware | 36% | 38% | 28% | 18% | 17% | 19% | 9% |
| D.C. | 31% | 23% | 36% | 12% | 13% | 21% | 9% |
| Florida | 41% | 33% | 26% | 19% | 14% | 8% | 10% |
| Georgia | 29% | 39% | 24% | 21% | 10% | 21% | 9% |
| Hawaii | 41% | 24% | 28% | 19% | 10% | 21% | 6% |
| Idaho | 31% | 30% | 30% | 20% | 18% | 7% | 7% |
| Illinois | 28% | 22% | 23% | 15% | 17% | 20% | 10% |
| Indiana | 37% | 31% | 34% | 21% | 19% | 12% | 3% |
| Iowa | 29% | 38% | 33% | 14% | 18% | 10% | 11% |
| Kansas | 33% | 39% | 25% | 12% | 10% | 21% | 7% |
| Kentucky | 35% | 27% | 26% | 22% | 14% | 18% | 8% |
| Louisiana | 31% | 23% | 28% | 18% | 15% | 15% | 9% |
| Maine | 41% | 26% | 31% | 22% | 17% | 7% | 2% |
| Maryland | 32% | 35% | 29% | 12% | 10% | 17% | 2% |
| Massachusetts | 28% | 26% | 29% | 14% | 21% | 19% | 9% |
| Michigan | 28% | 23% | 37% | 19% | 20% | 17% | 6% |
| Minnesota | 37% | 37% | 26% | 22% | 16% | 13% | 10% |
| Mississippi | 37% | 32% | 24% | 15% | 13% | 9% | 3% |
| Missouri | 39% | 34% | 29% | 14% | 12% | 7% | 11% |
| Montana | 28% | 31% | 26% | 19% | 14% | 19% | 8% |
| Nebraska | 36% | 35% | 31% | 18% | 21% | 21% | 4% |
| Nevada | 28% | 32% | 31% | 16% | 17% | 20% | 6% |
| New Hampshire | 36% | 22% | 30% | 15% | 13% | 7% | 8% |
| New Jersey | 28% | 38% | 33% | 14% | 12% | 9% | 2% |
| New Mexico | 35% | 31% | 23% | 17% | 17% | 10% | 2% |
| New York | 36% | 34% | 26% | 24% | 15% | 20% | 3% |
| North Carolina | 39% | 30% | 34% | 18% | 11% | 19% | 7% |
| North Dakota | 29% | 35% | 29% | 22% | 21% | 8% | 8% |
| Ohio | 35% | 30% | 35% | 24% | 15% | 21% | 4% |
| Oklahoma | 28% | 25% | 29% | 23% | 18% | 20% | 3% |
| Oregon | 37% | 24% | 34% | 15% | 15% | 7% | 8% |
| Pennsylvania | 28% | 33% | 33% | 12% | 16% | 8% | 5% |
| Rhode Island | 37% | 24% | 33% | 22% | 21% | 16% | 4% |
| South Carolina | 40% | 28% | 32% | 15% | 20% | 14% | 5% |
| South Dakota | 41% | 26% | 33% | 17% | 15% | 12% | 11% |
| Tennessee | 37% | 33% | 27% | 15% | 11% | 10% | 3% |
| Texas | 30% | 40% | 36% | 24% | 13% | 16% | 6% |
| Utah | 33% | 23% | 36% | 12% | 14% | 18% | 6% |
| Vermont | 37% | 23% | 30% | 16% | 10% | 12% | 7% |
| Virginia | 40% | 38% | 34% | 16% | 14% | 16% | 7% |
| Washington | 41% | 31% | 33% | 16% | 19% | 20% | 4% |
| West Virginia | 28% | 32% | 25% | 24% | 11% | 14% | 9% |
| Wisconsin | 35% | 28% | 26% | 24% | 19% | 8% | 9% |
| Wyoming | 37% | 38% | 32% | 22% | 14% | 17% | 4% |
Source: MFP’s 2024 Homeowners Major Repairs Survey.
Why Homeowners Are Putting Off Repairs?
The table provides data on the reasons why homeowners across various states are putting off major home repairs. The reasons are categorized into several factors, including financial constraints, prioritization of other expenses, and personal limitations. Here’s a detailed analysis:
Financial Constraints
Overall Trend: Across all states, the primary reason for delaying repairs is financial constraints, with 55% of homeowners indicating they “can’t afford to pay for it.”
-
State Variations: Illinois (64%), Louisiana (63%), Nebraska (63%), South Dakota (63%), and Vermont (63%) show particularly high percentages of homeowners unable to afford repairs. This suggests significant financial hardship in these states.
Other Financial Priorities
Overall Trend: The second most common reason is having “other things pay off first,” affecting 26% of homeowners nationwide.
State Variations: Florida (34%), Georgia (33%), Missouri (33%), and Rhode Island (33%) have higher percentages in this category, indicating that many homeowners prioritize other financial obligations over home repairs.
DIY Repairs
Overall Trend: 17% of homeowners choose to “do it myself,” reflecting a preference or necessity for DIY repairs.
State Variations: California (21%), Connecticut (19%), and Iowa (20%) have higher percentages, indicating a stronger DIY culture or possibly more resources and skills available for self-repairs in these states.
Saving for Big Purchase
Overall Trend: 12% of homeowners are “saving for big purchases,” which delays their ability to fund repairs.
State Variations: Alaska (16%), Arizona (16%), Arkansas (16%), and Colorado (14%) show higher percentages, suggesting that in these states, significant financial goals take precedence over immediate home repairs.
Budget Allocation
Overall Trend: Similarly, 12% of homeowners have their “budget for something else.”
State Variations: Maryland (15%), Massachusetts (15%), and Washington (15%) show higher percentages, indicating that financial planning in these states often leaves little room for unexpected home repairs.
Lack of Knowledge
Overall Trend: 10% of homeowners are “not sure how to fix it,” reflecting a lack of knowledge or skills needed for repairs.
State Variations: Idaho (13%), Indiana (14%), Nevada (14%), and Ohio (13%) have higher percentages, highlighting a potential need for educational resources or professional assistance in these states.
Time Constraints
Overall Trend: 7% of homeowners “do not have enough time” to carry out repairs.
State Variations: Massachusetts (8%), Virginia (9%), and Washington (9%) have higher percentages, indicating time constraints are more significant in these areas.
:: Key Insights ::
Financial Hardship: Financial constraints are the most significant barrier across all states, highlighting the need for affordable repair programs and financial assistance.
-
State-Specific Issues: States like Illinois, Louisiana, and Vermont show particularly high levels of financial difficulty, while states like Florida and Georgia prioritize other financial obligations.
DIY and Knowledge Gaps: States with higher DIY tendencies may benefit from targeted support to improve the effectiveness of self-repairs, while states with higher percentages of homeowners lacking repair knowledge could benefit from educational programs.
Time Management: Time constraints, though less prominent, still affect a notable portion of homeowners, suggesting that convenience and time-saving repair services could be valuable.
Overall, the data sheds light on the diverse factors influencing homeowners’ decisions to postpone repairs, highlighting regional variations in financial circumstances, DIY culture, and knowledge about home maintenance.
Question: Why are you putting off repairs?
Can’t afford to pay for it Other things pay off first Do it myself Saving for big purchases Budget is for something else Not sure how to fixing it Not have enough time Other All states 55% 26% 17% 12% 12% 10% 7% 5% Alabama 63% 22% 14% 14% 15% 9% 5% 6% Alaska 42% 24% 20% 16% 8% 10% 7% 3% Arizona 44% 25% 16% 16% 7% 5% 7% 7% Arkansas 42% 31% 19% 16% 15% 9% 6% 7% California 59% 20% 21% 14% 15% 9% 6% 5% Colorado 53% 21% 20% 14% 14% 7% 5% 7% Connecticut 43% 22% 19% 8% 12% 7% 6% 2% Delaware 59% 24% 20% 10% 16% 11% 5% 4% D.C. 63% 32% 15% 10% 15% 11% 9% 3% Florida 63% 34% 13% 7% 13% 14% 7% 3% Georgia 48% 33% 16% 15% 10% 8% 7% 6% Hawaii 53% 25% 17% 8% 16% 10% 7% 7% Idaho 59% 28% 14% 11% 8% 13% 5% 4% Illinois 64% 26% 15% 12% 10% 7% 4% 5% Indiana 46% 30% 19% 11% 10% 14% 7% 3% Iowa 46% 31% 20% 16% 12% 14% 4% 5% Kansas 55% 28% 16% 7% 8% 5% 7% 7% Kentucky 49% 28% 21% 14% 13% 12% 9% 7% Louisiana 63% 23% 19% 16% 11% 8% 6% 6% Maine 47% 20% 16% 16% 11% 12% 9% 4% Maryland 53% 34% 13% 10% 15% 14% 5% 8% Massachusetts 50% 28% 16% 16% 15% 5% 8% 3% Michigan 59% 22% 21% 13% 11% 6% 6% 4% Minnesota 59% 19% 15% 16% 9% 6% 4% 8% Mississippi 51% 20% 16% 14% 13% 10% 8% 5% Missouri 52% 33% 21% 7% 12% 9% 7% 3% Montana 57% 24% 19% 15% 12% 6% 5% 5% Nebraska 63% 19% 18% 15% 10% 9% 4% 3% Nevada 44% 30% 18% 12% 10% 14% 7% 8% New Hampshire 52% 18% 20% 14% 13% 12% 8% 7% New Jersey 55% 30% 18% 14% 16% 14% 8% 6% New Mexico 44% 24% 19% 9% 10% 10% 7% 3% New York 44% 24% 17% 11% 14% 9% 7% 2% North Carolina 54% 20% 21% 10% 14% 10% 4% 2% North Dakota 62% 24% 13% 9% 14% 7% 8% 7% Ohio 48% 27% 20% 7% 9% 13% 8% 5% Oklahoma 53% 23% 21% 16% 10% 12% 7% 2% Oregon 55% 20% 16% 16% 12% 6% 7% 7% Pennsylvania 51% 19% 13% 13% 9% 10% 8% 3% Rhode Island 62% 33% 16% 12% 7% 11% 5% 7% South Carolina 59% 34% 13% 15% 10% 10% 8% 8% South Dakota 63% 21% 16% 8% 9% 6% 8% 2% Tennessee 58% 32% 21% 10% 10% 13% 9% 6% Texas 55% 23% 14% 16% 9% 5% 4% 3% Utah 57% 26% 13% 15% 13% 11% 8% 4% Vermont 63% 23% 17% 9% 10% 5% 9% 8% Virginia 54% 25% 18% 10% 15% 7% 9% 8% Washington 44% 25% 13% 16% 15% 8% 9% 5% West Virginia 49% 27% 13% 7% 14% 10% 9% 6% Wisconsin 63% 21% 14% 9% 13% 9% 6% 2% Wyoming 60% 27% 18% 7% 11% 10% 5% 7% Source: MFP’s 2024 Homeowners Major Repairs Survey.
How Homeowners Pay Major Repairs
Across all states, 42% of homeowners postpone major repairs, due to financial constraints.
Putting it off: Across all states, 42% of homeowners opt to postpone major repairs, possibly due to financial constraints or other reasons.
Credit cards: 26% of homeowners use credit cards to cover major repair costs, providing immediate funds but potentially incurring high interest rates.
Unsure: 22% of homeowners are unsure how to pay for major repairs, indicating financial uncertainty or lack of planning.
Personal loan: 14% of homeowners resort to personal loans to finance major repairs, which can provide a lump sum but may come with interest payments.
Emergency savings: 12% of homeowners rely on emergency savings to cover major repair expenses, demonstrating preparedness for unexpected costs but potentially depleting their savings.
Now, let’s look at specific trends for each payment method across different states:
Putting it off: States like Idaho, Maine, and Montana have higher percentages of homeowners postponing major repairs (above 45%), while states like Illinois, Massachusetts, and Wisconsin have relatively lower percentages (below 35%).
Credit cards: States like Idaho, Nevada, and Oregon show higher percentages of homeowners using credit cards for major repairs (above 40%), whereas states like Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio have lower percentages (below 30%).
Unsure: Trends for uncertainty about payment methods vary widely across states, with no consistent patterns observed.
Personal loan: States like Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota exhibit higher percentages of homeowners opting for personal loans (above 15%), while states like Kentucky, Louisiana, and Virginia have lower percentages (below 10%).
Emergency savings: States like Delaware, New Hampshire, and South Carolina have higher percentages of homeowners relying on emergency savings (above 15%), while states like Mississippi, Nevada, and North Carolina have lower percentages (below 10%).
Overall, the data put some light into how homeowners finance major repairs; reflecting how variations in financial resources, planning, and preferences differ across states.
Question: How do you pay for major home repairs?
Putting it off Credit Cards Unsure Personal loan Emergency savings All states 42% 26% 22% 14% 12% Alabama 40% 30% 24% 16% 16% Alaska 37% 28% 18% 9% 18% Arizona 43% 34% 26% 17% 17% Arkansas 45% 18% 27% 16% 8% California 40% 18% 24% 17% 10% Colorado 39% 28% 15% 13% 12% Connecticut 36% 22% 23% 15% 11% Delaware 46% 30% 20% 19% 7% Washington, D.C. 40% 31% 27% 19% 14% Florida 40% 21% 25% 11% 18% Georgia 47% 18% 24% 17% 17% Hawaii 35% 27% 27% 12% 14% Idaho 48% 34% 22% 18% 17% Illinois 42% 25% 17% 10% 6% Indiana 35% 21% 21% 18% 12% Iowa 41% 16% 28% 18% 16% Kansas 43% 26% 20% 16% 15% Kentucky 43% 26% 25% 8% 7% Louisiana 39% 27% 15% 13% 6% Maine 48% 33% 22% 16% 18% Maryland 44% 28% 17% 11% 7% Massachusetts 35% 31% 15% 16% 9% Michigan 35% 31% 21% 8% 13% Minnesota 41% 30% 20% 9% 18% Mississippi 46% 19% 27% 11% 11% Missouri 38% 31% 24% 14% 10% Montana 47% 17% 25% 9% 12% Nebraska 39% 20% 15% 13% 12% Nevada 48% 16% 20% 15% 7% New Hampshire 42% 27% 19% 18% 8% New Jersey 36% 22% 16% 13% 11% New Mexico 43% 33% 21% 10% 18% New York 46% 31% 15% 13% 12% North Carolina 39% 33% 15% 12% 6% North Dakota 40% 21% 25% 13% 11% Ohio 36% 28% 21% 13% 14% Oklahoma 45% 21% 20% 15% 6% Oregon 47% 34% 26% 19% 13% Pennsylvania 44% 28% 25% 19% 13% Rhode Island 39% 16% 18% 9% 10% South Carolina 36% 31% 25% 11% 18% South Dakota 45% 27% 24% 11% 15% Tennessee 47% 18% 21% 19% 14% Texas 46% 17% 18% 17% 13% Utah 45% 17% 19% 8% 16% Vermont 44% 25% 16% 18% 7% Virginia 38% 26%each 22% 9% 13% Washington 36% 30% 26% 12% 13% West Virginia 35% 33% 23% 11% 6% Wisconsin 35% 34% 25% 15% 13% Wyoming 43% 19% 28% 16% 10% Source: MFP’s 2024 Homeowners Major Repairs Survey.
Economic Divide: Home Repair Delays by Income Across America
The collected data use the U.S. Census Bureau for each State’s main income ranges. This imply the bottom 20% income in Mississippi is not the same as Connecticut’s bottom 20%. Using individual State income range better reflect each state’s income and makes for an apple to apple comparison across States.
General Homeowners Income Trends
Income Correlation: There is a clear trend across all states where lower-income groups (bottom 20%) have the highest percentage of homeowners delaying major repairs. Unsurprisingly, the highest income groups (top 20%) have the lowest percentage, indicating that income significantly impacts the ability to afford home repairs.
State Averages: On average, 39% of homeowners in the bottom 20% income group delay major home repairs, while only 3% in the top 20% income group do. The percentages decrease progressively from lower to higher income groups, showcasing the economic disparity in home maintenance capabilities.
Specific State Observations
Highest Percentages in Bottom 20%:
- – Kansas (45%): Kansas has the highest percentage of homeowners in the bottom 20% income group delaying repairs.
- – Alabama and Texas (44%): Both Alabama and Texas also have high percentages of 44%.
Lowest Percentages in Top 20%:
- – Arkansas and Texas (0%): These states report 0% in the top 20%, indicating no delays in home repairs among the wealthiest homeowners.
- – Kansas, Mississippi, and South Carolina (0%): Also have 0% for the top 20%.
Middle Income Ranges:
- – The 20%-40% and 40%-60% income ranges typically have intermediate percentages. For example, Alaska has 29% and 19% respectively, closely aligning with the average trends.
- – States like Connecticut (30% and 18%) and Colorado (31% and 18%) show similar patterns.
Outliers and Variations:
- Oregon (32%): Oregon has a notably low percentage for the bottom 20% compared to other states.
- Oklahoma (17%): Oklahoma has a relatively high percentage (17%) in the 60%-80% range, indicating higher delays in this middle-upper income group compared to other states.
Regional Analysis
- Southern States: States like Alabama, Arkansas, and Mississippi have higher percentages of delays in the lower-income groups. These states generally have higher poverty rates which correlate with the observed data.
- Western States: States like California and Nevada show a lower percentage of delays in the bottom 20% (35% each) but have more significant percentages in the middle ranges (e.g., 31% in Nevada for 20%-40%).
Percentage of homeowners who need to delay major repairs by income rangesState Bottom 20% 20%-40% 40%-60% 60%-80% Top 20% Average 39% 28% 19% 12% 3% Alabama 44% 25% 23% 5% 3% Alaska 39% 29% 19% 8% 5% Arizona 41% 29% 15% 12% 3% Arkansas 36% 32% 18% 14% 0% California 35% 25% 21% 15% 4% Colorado 40% 31% 18% 10% 1% Connecticut 42% 30% 18% 9% 1% Delaware 37% 24% 17% 14% 8% DC 39% 27% 18% 13% 3% Florida 38% 29% 16% 13% 4% Georgia 36% 27% 21% 14% 2% Hawaii 36% 27% 19% 13% 5% Idaho 39% 28% 20% 11% 2% Illinois 41% 29% 18% 9% 3% Indiana 42% 26% 19% 11% 3% Iowa 40% 25% 21% 11% 3% Kansas 45% 24% 19% 12% 0% Kentucky 38% 30% 20% 10% 2% Louisiana 41% 24% 19% 12% 4% Maine 39% 25% 19% 11% 6% Maryland 37% 28% 15% 13% 7% Massachusetts 35% 29% 18% 13% 5% Michigan 36% 30% 19% 11% 4% Minnesota 35% 28% 19% 12% 6% Mississippi 43% 26% 18% 13% 0% Missouri 37% 28% 17% 14% 4% Montana 35% 27% 20% 12% 6% Nebraska 41% 26% 19% 11% 3% Nevada 35% 31% 19% 11% 4% New Hampshire 38% 27% 18% 12% 5% New Jersey 34% 26% 24% 12% 4% New Mexico 33% 25% 23% 14% 5% New York 35% 30% 20% 8% 7% North Carolina 42% 25% 17% 13% 3% North Dakota 40% 26% 20% 10% 4% Ohio 37% 27% 19% 12% 5% Oklahoma 38% 27% 15% 17% 3% Oregon 32% 30% 23% 13% 2% Pennsylvania 41% 23% 19% 11% 6% Rhode Island 37% 29% 20% 10% 4% South Carolina 40% 30% 22% 8% 0% South Dakota 37% 26% 17% 14% 6% Tennessee 43% 25% 19% 12% 1% Texas 44% 32% 14% 10% 0% Utah 38% 30% 19% 12% 1% Vermont 33% 23% 23% 15% 6% Virginia 41% 24% 21% 13% 1% Washington 37% 25% 23% 14% 1% West Virginia 39% 26% 19% 12% 4% Wisconsin 40% 28% 18% 11% 3% Wyoming 39% 28% 17% 14% 2% Source: MFP’s 2024 Homeowners Major Repairs Survey.What’s next?
If you’re a researcher:
- – Evaluating the effectiveness of federal, state, and local programs designed to assist low-income homeowners with repairs (e.g., grants, low-interest loans) would be a good avenue to better understand how lower income homeowners succeed with programs.
- – Better understanding how demographics (age, race, household size) influence the likelihood of delaying home repairs.
If you’re a lower income homeowner:
You can find local home repair help at HUD and our States home improvement programs (including counties, cities and non-profits).
Related Research
2024 Small Home Improvements Survey
