The Impact of Reality Renovation TV
There is no doubt Australia’s obsession with reality and home improvement shows has soared over the past decade and are inspiring a nation to dream of their own home renovation.
Home renovations are both a creative outlet and a way to out-do the neighbours. Whether it’s a fresh coat of paint or a complete home makeover, Australian’s are trying their hand at DIY renovation and are soon realising they need help to complete their vision.
Figures have shown viewers of reality renovation programs are prepared to knock down walls rather than slouch on the couch watching contestants battle it out for the grand prize.
The figures include a 48% rise in job postings for interior designers, a 35% rise in requests for kitchen renovations and a 30% increase in bathroom renovation job postings.
An online survey by thehome.com.au has shown dreams of a home reno are outweighing desires for a tropical holiday, with results showing that 72% of respondants nominated home improvements over a holiday when asked ‘What would you do with a spare $15,000?’
Whilst house prices within Australia’s two major cities, Melbourne and Sydney, continue to soar as well as the steady growth in population across the nation, it isn’t any wonder why these figures highlight such a demand for renovation as the big imposts of government stamp duty make it less appealing to sell and buy again.
Australian’s are ‘house proud’ people, always have been and always will be, and have an inclination to spend money on their homes to make improvements that both enhance their lifestyle and add value to their property. The popularity of shows such as The Block, arguably Australia’s favourite reality program, is a reflection of this interest.
Although these shows may not truly reflect the demands of ‘real world renovation’, it can not be argued that these shows have further inspired a nation and as far as we are concerned, if reality renovation programs continue to produce high lifts in trade requests, they can remain within our lounge rooms for the next decade.
