Lisa Mailhot | October 9, 2023
Buyers
Bugs and pests can be quite a nuisance, especially when they invade your home and yard. A recent survey of 2,000 homeowners and renters with yards or lawns revealed some interesting insights into how Americans deal with these unwelcome intruders. The survey conducted by OnePoll on behalf of TruGreen shed light on the prevalence of bugs in our lives, the emotions they evoke, and the misconceptions that persist. In this blog post, we'll explore the survey findings and provide practical tips to help you keep bugs at bay.
The survey found that bugs and pests are common for most homeowners, with the average individual encountering them about five times per week, both inside and outside their homes. The presence of bugs often triggers strong emotions, with 56% of respondents feeling frustrated, 39% scared, and 39% disgusted when they find a bug or pest in their home.
Interestingly, 22% of respondents prefer to call in a professional or get someone else to deal with the issue. Only 17% would swat the bug, and 12% feel a sense of duty to release them back into nature. This highlights the range of reactions people have when confronted with bugs.
When it comes to deciding whether to squish a bug, respondents based their decisions on various factors. More than half (56%) considered the bug's appearance, while an equal percentage contemplated the potential harm creepy crawlers could cause to their kids and pets or the damage they could inflict on their homes (50%). This shows that personal safety and property protection are significant concerns.
Inside the home, certain bugs like beetles (43%), centipedes (42%), cockroaches (42%), mosquitoes (21%), and spiders (16%) are more likely to elicit a proactive response. Outside, centipedes (39%), beetles (38%), bees (36%), and cockroaches (34%) top the list of bugs that people are more inclined to squish or remove.
The survey revealed that bug encounters can happen at the most inconvenient times. Some of the worst-case scenarios for encountering a bug or pest in your home include while cooking in the kitchen (24%), getting ready to go to sleep (23%), relaxing in the living room (16%), and even while taking a shower (12%). These situations can be particularly unsettling.
The survey also highlighted some common misconceptions about bugs and pests. Nearly half (48%) of respondents believed the myth that bugs or pests won't come inside a clean home. Additionally, four in 10 respondents thought the age-old myth that the average person swallows eight spiders in their sleep over their lifetime was true. These misconceptions can lead to unnecessary worry and fear.
In response to bug or pest issues, more than two-thirds of respondents (68%) said they would hire a professional for help. Twelve percent admitted they felt out of control when controlling bugs and pests.
Jeremy McReynolds, TruGreen’s Pest Control Expert, emphasized the importance of professional pest control services, especially during the fall and winter seasons when bugs seek warmth in homes. He stated, "A staggering 48% of homeowners encounter the most pests and bugs during these seasons." To ensure the safety of your home and loved ones, it is best to engage the services of a professional who can effectively prevent these unwelcome intruders from gaining entry."
Bugs and pests invading your home and yard can be a frustrating and sometimes scary experience. However, it's essential to approach the situation with knowledge and a clear plan of action. Understanding common misconceptions, knowing when to seek professional help, and taking proactive steps to prevent bug infestations can help you keep bugs away and enjoy a pest-free living environment.
References:
Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.
Sellers
Lisa Mailhot | November 30, 2023
Experience Unique Living: Converted Churches, Barns, and Factories Turned Homes. Discover the charm of unconventional conversions with history, character, and modern c… Read more
Buyers
Lisa Mailhot | November 28, 2023
Delve into the secrets of Orange County, California, with our blog featuring captivating trivia facts. Whether you're a potential buyer, seller, or a curious tourist, … Read more
Buyers
Lisa Mailhot | November 27, 2023
Uncover 2023 Orange County Housing Market Trends: Delve into median sold prices, sales metrics, and market dynamics to understand if it's a buyer's or seller's market.… Read more
Buyers
Lisa Mailhot | November 22, 2023
Stuck in a last-minute gift scramble? Discover seven low-stress, last-minute gift ideas that'll delight your loved ones and elevate their home experience. From cozy th… Read more
Sellers
Lisa Mailhot | November 21, 2023
Explore the changing real estate landscape influenced by declining mortgage rejection rates. Discover the opportune moment for buying or selling your home while improv… Read more
Sellers
Lisa Mailhot | November 20, 2023
 Selling your home with challenging neighbors? Learn how to handle noisy, disrespectful, or problematic neighbors effectively. Follow these tips to ease the selling pr… Read more
Buyers
Lisa Mailhot | November 16, 2023
Get the latest insights into the Orange County real estate market. Discover trends, notable closings, and the impact of the holiday season on inventory. Stay informed … Read more
Buyers
Lisa Mailhot | November 15, 2023
Stay informed on FHFA's 2024 multifamily loan purchase caps, totaling $140 billion for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Explore the impact on the multifamily market and its… Read more
Sellers
Lisa Mailhot | November 14, 2023
Learn about the rise of alternative lenders, such as parents, as a solution to the affordability challenge in today's real estate market. Explore available options for… Read more
You’ve got questions and we can’t wait to answer them.