🛠️ Is Your Home Too Old to Ignore?

Why Replacements Matter More Than Remodels in 2025

In a city full of character, charm, and culture — homes age just like people do. And just like us, they need care to keep standing strong.

But here’s what many homeowners don’t realize:

The biggest money in home improvement right now isn’t going to pretty upgrades — it’s going to replacements.

According to Harvard’s 2025 housing report, more than half of all home improvement dollars in the U.S. are being spent on essential fixes, not fancy finishes.

Let’s talk about what that means for you — especially if you own an older home in New Orleans, Jefferson, or surrounding parishes.

🧱 First, Let’s Get Real About the Age of Our Homes

  • The average home in the U.S. is now 44 years old
  • In New Orleans? Many are 75+, built before modern codes, storms, and flooding risks

If your home was built before 1980, you’re not alone.
But you also need to know what that means:

  • Outdated HVAC or electrical
  • Roofs with layers of patchwork
  • Windows leaking AC money in the summer
  • Lead-based paint, old pipes, or termite risk

These aren’t cosmetic issues — they’re structural, financial, and safety issues.

🔧 Replacements That Protect You (and Your Equity)

Forget granite countertops. In this market, the smart money is going to:

  • ✅ New roofs
  • ✅ HVAC replacements
  • ✅ Updated plumbing or wiring
  • ✅ Energy-efficient windows
  • ✅ Foundation repairs
  • ✅ Storm-resistant features

These are what appraisers, insurance companies, and future buyers look at first — especially in a flood- and storm-prone state like Louisiana.

“The prettiest kitchen won’t save you if the roof leaks or the AC breaks.”

💸 Want vs. Need: Where the Money’s Really Going

  • 30% of renovation money is going toward kitchen & bath updates
  • But over 50% is going to need-based projects like replacements and disaster repairs

That tells you everything.

🧠 What This Means for You:

  • If you’re living in an older home — don’t wait for a crisis to fix what’s aging
  • If you’re buying — be prepared to factor these replacements into your budget
  • If you’re selling — making these upgrades before listing can add real value
  • If you’re investing — older properties with good bones can become long-term wins if you budget for real updates

🛑 Don’t Just Remodel. Reinforce.

A new bathroom is nice. A new roof keeps the whole house standing.

In New Orleans, where flood zones, humidity, and historic homes meet — replacing what’s tired is how you protect what matters.

📲 Want help finding the right contractors, planning updates, or knowing what’s worth fixing first?

Call or text Bryan K. Owens at (504) 944-1691
Let’s look at your home’s condition, budget, and what makes sense — before the next issue catches