Brian Gee

Tariffs. Interest rates. Inflation. Global instability. The headlines have been relentless—and so has their effect on homeowner confidence.

Whether they were planning to buy their first home, move up to a larger one, or finally tackle the kitchen or master bath they have been putting off, millions of homeowners have pressed pause. But how long is that pause, really? And what would it take to end it?  This session presents original research, debuted at KBIS, on the psychology of the delayed homeowner.

We go beyond measuring hesitation to understand it: which specific economic conditions are doing the most damage, how homeowners are thinking about the future, and, most critically, which signals they are watching for that would give them the confidence to move forward. We also look at how professionals on the ground are reading this moment and maintaining relationships with clients who are not ready to pull the trigger today but will be. The findings offer a clear-eyed picture of where demand is going and how industry professionals can position themselves to capture it when the window reopens.

Join us for light bites and drinks during our VFTI Wine and Design series. This free event is open to VFTI attendees, but advance registration is required as space is limited.

When disaster strikes, rebuilding isn’t just about structures, it’s about resilience, accessibility, and creating spaces ready for every stage of life. This session examines how destruction can open doors for innovation, from designing homes that support recovery and independence to incorporating universal features for long-term living. Attendees will gain insight into the challenges of rebuilding after natural disasters, key design strategies for safety and adaptability, and the importance of creating spaces that foster comfort, dignity, and preparedness for the future.

Make sure to save your seat early!