Remodeling becoming an alternative for MN families who cannot move

As it becomes more financially difficult for some to pack up and move to a new city, the practice of remodeling is gaining favor as an alternative way to have a fresh home with less expense, according to the St. Cloud Times. The source notes that the practice is becoming common in Central Minnesota.

According to the source, statistics show a nationwide increase in remodeling projects, not just in Central Minnesota. However, in St. Cloud in particular, the amount spent on remodeling projects during April and May increased from $2 million to about $3.2 million between 2006 and 2010.

"People are staying in their homes longer rather than moving," Jane DeAustin, director of government affairs for the Central Minnesota Builders Association, told the source. "The federal energy tax credit probably led some people to update their windows and insulation, and that could be reflected in the increase," she said. However, she also noted that the practice of "aging in place" is become more common and individuals are also remodeling homes to make them more accessible as they get older.

Though many St. Cloud residents are opting not to move right now, some of their neighbors in nearby counties may not have a choice. According to RealtyTrac, certain counties in Minnesota have high foreclosure rates, including Wright, Sherburne and Kandiyohi counties, which all surround Kearnes County, where St. Cloud is located.

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