03.16.2009 — Lots of good news coming from the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA).
Gary Shapiro, Consumer Electronics Association CEO
Despite the recession and floundering housing market, demand for home technology continues to simmer.
"Home technology is poised to take off as the economy and housing market improves," says Steve Koenig, CEA's director, industry analysis, upon releasing the "7th Annual State of the Builder Technology Market Study."
Meanwhile, CEA president and CEO Gary Shapiro is calling innovation and the tech industry our nation's best hope for jobs and economic recovery. Shapiro also questioned government policies restricting free trade and "stifling innovation" in his speech to the Northern Virginia Trade Council. Read his full comments here.
The nation's builders seem to agree with Shapiro — on the technology point, not necessarily the free trade argument.
The builder study shows a majority of builders recognizing that home technology is important in marketing new homes, with 71 percent reporting that technology has helped them preserve home renovation revenue that might otherwise have declined during the weak economy. That figure is up 10 points from last year.
"Builders are aware of the value of home technology and have increased their marketing efforts — suggesting builders are leaving no stone unturned to help move inventories while recognizing the importance of home technology for consumers," says Koenig.
The study shows more builders offering entertainment elements in homes:
