A nod to ‘Gen DIY’S’ gumption

Millennials are home improvement-minded but may benefit from some expert guidance

Think millennials are lazy, uninspired, inexperienced and clueless overall when it comes to home improvement? Think again: New research suggests that millennials, also known as Generation Y, are eager to tackle more do-it-yourself projects in their homes than many previously thought.

Fresh data from independent advertising firm Marcus Thomas LLC, based in Cleveland, reveal that millennials commit to more DIY home improvement (33 percent) than earlier generations (23 percent for Generation X and 22 percent for baby boomers).

They are also more likely than Gen Xers and boomers to enjoy doing home upgrades, take greater pride in DIY than in other accomplishments and feel more confident in doing a project right.

However, they’re a bit less prepared than earlier generations: Only half admit to ensuring that they held all the tools, materials and supplies needed before star ting a job, compared with 65 percent of Gen Xers and 67 percent of boomers.

Gen Y is also more likely to leave a project unfinished than preceding generations, and four in 10 are more likely to use a little or a good deal of help in their DIY projects.

“Our study had a number of interesting finds that gave us surprising insights into the mind of the millennial homeowner — many of which contradict assumptions that are prevalent about this demographic,” said Mark Bachmann, chief client of ficer for Marcus Thomas LLC. “Not only does this research reveal why they’re taking the initiative to do projects themselves, but it also shows how they’re more resourceful than previous generations.”

Case in point: Nearly half of millennials sur veyed have called in sick to work to take on a home improvement project.

“We know that free time and travel are incredibly impor tant to millennials, so this data point puts in perspective the high-priority level that Gen Y is placing on their homes,” added Bachmann. “And the fact that 52 percent

admitted to having all of the resources needed before star ting a project indicates that they just want to get star ted and get it done, suggesting a no-time-towaste attitude. Plus, they are surprisingly keen to visit brick-andmor tar home improvement stores, busting the myth that they purchase ever ything on Amazon.”

He says the study’s most impor tant takeaway is clear: “This generation is one that is often categorized as ill-equipped for adulthood. But this data busts that myth — we know that millennials are comfortable learning, jumping in, and accomplishing tasks.”

Stephanie Purcell, an interior designer and owner of Redesigned Classics in Los Angeles, isn’t surprised that many millennials have a DIY mindset.

“They crave a more cultivated and unique experience. There is gratification in knowing they did something themselves and satisfaction in creating something uniquely theirs,” noted Purcell.

“That being said, millennials often don’t get the same hands-on experience with trade work that previous generations did. More and more jobs are done on a computer, so woodworking, for example, may not be something they have direct exposure to.”

Yet the study shows that if they lack the know-how, millennuals

do their homework — 56 percent watch how-to videos, 52 percent talk to family and friends about a project, and 42 percent ask store associates for guidance.

“They are completely comfortable learning from Youtube videos, and they know you can pretty much learn how to do anything online,” said Kelli Pesses, Realtor and designer in Austin, Texas.

However, Rachel Waldron, interior architectural designer for Waldron Designs, LLC in Vashon, Wash., is troubled by what she perceives as a possible overreliance on DIY by Gen Y.

“I am honestly ver y skeptical of Generation Y because they feel as though they know as much as the designer or exper t.

They often see professionals as an expense that is out of reach,” Waldron said. “But I think ever yone could use a little home design and construction guidance. Millennials should consider hiring a professional for at least a few consultations.”

Bachmann agrees that consulting with exper ts can make a big difference. “It’s important that millennials not only think about the entire project holistically but also talk to an exper t or at least someone who’s been through a similar project,” he said.

Finally, “Think about your skill set and be realistic: What are you willing to do versus what you’re not willing to do? It’s always OK to ask for and hire help,” Purcell said.