Local home remodelers say business is finally starting to improve after the worst industry downturn in 50 years, according to Worcester Business Journal (June 6, 2011). The local recovery tracks national trends, according to Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies and several remodeling indices that say 2011 will be a recovery year nationwide for the industry.

The Harvard report predicts steady remodeling growth of 3.5% annually for the next several years. That's compared to a 12% drop from 2007-2009. The National Association of Home Builders' index also shows signs of recovery. In the first quarter of 2011, the association's remodeling index reached the highest point it has been at since 2007. Fueling the remodeling recovery is a glut of foreclosed homes needing repairs, winter ice storm damage and general economic improvements.