Meet Chrystal King: The DIY Designer Helping People Makeover Their Spaces

Photo Credit: Chrystal’s Instagram

Deciding to makeover your home can be an exciting decision. Enlisting the help of creative designers can give anyone looking to uplift their spaces an added level of inspiration. One such creative designer, that has captured the hearts of DIY enthusiasts and interior design lovers through her successful DIY projects, is Chrystal King.

Chrystal is a Tik Tok and Instagram content creator, who has been able to consistently and creatively make over her own space through her innovative interior style choices and DIY designs. Even up-cycling unwanted items and revamping them into modern and unique statement pieces.

Her creativity has enabled her to shift into making over other people’s spaces and showcasing the journey through her new series. The first episode of the series follows Chrystal making over the home of new homeowner, Drico, as they work together to turn his space into a “bachelor pad”.

The response to Chrystal’s new series, has been overwhelmingly positive with one Instagram user, Deborahbiyi, commenting “this talent is out of this world”. In a recent CM interview, here’s what Chrystal had to share:

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A post shared by Chrystal (@chrystalking_)

CM: For those who don’t know, tell the readership a little bit about yourself?

Chrystal: Of course! I started sharing my home design journey online two years ago after I bought my own home and began documenting my journey online, designing it and turning it into a smart home. With time, my platform has grown and now I’ve started designing other people's homes, which is a natural extension of my passion for design. I also have an architecture degree so it feels great to finally be putting it to good use!  

Photo Credit: Chrystal’s Instagram

CM: How did your creativity for designing home spaces and DIY start?

Chrystal: I have always been interested in designing my own space, and I grew up in a home where DIY was normalised. My mum used to do a lot of DIY projects, and I remember seeing her build a wardrobe from scratch and repair our ceiling one time. She encouraged me to be creative and do whatever I wanted, which gave me a lot of confidence. I have always loved being creative and [I] have explored it in many different mediums, including graphic design, digital art, tech, videography, and architecture.

CM: What was the inspiration behind the ‘Make over other people's spaces’ series?

Chrystal: I wanted to help people love their homes and feel proud of them. That's what inspired me to start the series I want to empower people to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment without necessarily breaking the bank and make home improvement accessible to everyone. 

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A post shared by Chrystal (@chrystalking_)

CM: A lot of your home design projects seem to be art and tech inspired, will this carry on into your designs for other peoples spaces?

Chrystal: Definitely! My home design projects are totally art and tech-inspired, and I plan to carry that on for other people's spaces too. I've been working in the tech industry for nearly 8 years now as a product designer, so that influence is definitely ingrained in me. Expect to see homes that are not only beautiful but also smart, and designed to make peoples lives easier!

CM: How do you approach the process of designing other people's spaces?

Chrystal: My approach is always centered around the individual and their unique needs. I start by having a conversation with them to get a better understanding of their personality and lifestyle, as well as their design preferences and goals for the space. This helps me to create a clear picture of what they are looking for, and allows me to tailor my approach to their specific needs. Once I have a good understanding of the person and their space, I begin the creative process, exploring different design options and ideas, taking into account the space's size, layout, and architecture. I also consider factors such as lighting, colour, and texture, and how they can be used to create a cohesive and harmonious space.   

CM: Your home makeovers seem to be very budget friendly, how do you manage the challenge of designing on a budget? 

Chrystal: When it comes to designing on a budget, I try to be creative and resourceful. I believe that you don't always need to spend a lot of money to achieve a great look. Sometimes it's just a matter of looking at things from a different angle. For example, I may repurpose items that I already have in my home or use materials in unconventional ways. Another strategy that I use is to research and compare prices to find the best deals. Google reverse image search is a tool that I find particularly helpful in this regard. I can easily find similar products at lower prices by searching for the image of an item that I like. This way, I can stay within my budget without sacrificing style or quality. Furthermore, I try to prioritise my expenses and focus on the areas that will make the biggest impact. For instance, I may invest in a statement piece of furniture or a bold accent wall, and then work around it with more affordable items.

CM: Bonus question: Which iconic figure, past or present, would you love to design a space for and why?

Chrystal: Ooo this is a tough one, if I had to choose one iconic figure I would choose Stephanie Ike. I love listening to her, and would love to work with her to create a space that reflects her personality and style! 

Follow Chrystal King @chrystalking_ for more DIY design makeovers.

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Stay Ahead of the Curve: Unveiling the Top 2024 Design Trends

It's that time when design professionals are utilizing their expertise and creativity to unveil this year's top interior design trends — and, as in previous years, their predictions are truly impressive. Whether planning a complete renovation or just looking to spruce up your home on a budget, this compilation of the biggest home trends in 2024 from our trusted design experts is here to assist you. Some trends, such as statement wallpaper, vibrant colours, and eye-catching tiles, have proven to be enduring. However, some innovative ideas have emerged.

These include incorporating woodgrain millwork and designing spaces with wellness features. No matter your design preferences, you're certain to find a surge of inspiration in this collection. So, feel free to consider remodelling an entire room, making a simple upgrade like changing the hardware, embarking on a painting project, or investing in new furniture to create your desired bedroom sanctuary or living room. If you're seeking more inspiration, take a look at the latest kitchen and bathroom trends for the upcoming year.

Brass Accents

Brass accents have been popular for a while and are expected to continue trending in 2024. Versatile and timeless, brass adds a classic and sophisticated appeal to both traditional and modern design environments. It allows other design elements and materials like marble or wood to shine, creating visual interest and contrast. Brass accents are a popular choice for homeowners looking to elevate their spaces with a touch of elegance.

Woodgrain Millwork

One of the key trends for 2024 is the resurgence of woodgrain millwork. Design experts predict that more clients will want to expose their original wood millwork, leading to a boom in paint stripping companies. Additionally, new-build clients are favouring rich woods like walnut, maple, and mahogany over paint-grade millwork. This trend brings warmth and natural beauty to spaces, creating a timeless appeal.

Bold Lighting

2024 is set to be a year of exciting lighting trends and fixtures. Designers anticipate large-scale fixtures, smaller recessed cans, and intricate sculptural lighting to take centre stage. These bold lighting choices serve as statement pieces, illuminating spaces with personality and flair. From chandeliers to pendant lights, a wide range of options are available to add a touch of drama and intrigue to any room.

Fluted Details

Saturated Colors

Neutrals are taking a back seat in 2024 as bold and saturated colours take the spotlight. Designers are embracing vibrant colours to infuse energy and personality into interiors. From rich blues to vibrant oranges, saturated colours make a statement in various design elements, including walls, furniture, and accessories. This trend adds drama and depth to spaces, creating a visually stunning environment.

Vintage Furniture

Investment pieces and vintage furniture are gaining popularity in 2024. Homeowners are opting for beautiful vintage case goods and expertly crafted reproductions. Instead of settling for "fast" furniture that doesn't stand the test of time, people are now willing to invest in well-built, thoughtfully crafted pieces that will last for generations. Vintage furniture brings character and charm to spaces, adding a sense of history and uniqueness.

Organic Light Fixtures

In 2024, lighting fixtures that use natural materials will be in high demand. Rattan, wood, and clay are just a few examples of the materials designers will incorporate into light fixtures. These natural materials add depth to the space and create a softer glow when paired with the lighting hardware. Organic light fixtures bring a touch of nature indoors, creating a warm and inviting ambience.

Quiet Luxury

Quiet luxury is a hot trend in interior design for 2024. This trend combines innovation with timeless elegance, creating spaces that inspire and elevate everyday living. Quiet luxury interiors feature sustainable materials, discreetly integrated smart technology, and a revival of classic design elements. The goal is to evoke nostalgia while embracing the modern era, creating sophisticated and comfortable spaces.

Understated Opulence

An emerging trend for 2024 is the concept of understated luxury. This trend focuses on seamlessly integrating touches of opulence into a space without compromising its overall effortless and clean feel. Designers are adding little touches that feel a bit fancier, such as character-driven edge profiles, detail-driven plumbing fixtures, and the incorporation of vintage rugs and furnishings. This trend creates a sense of luxury and refinement while maintaining a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

Wallpaper in Unexpected Places

While wallpaper has made a comeback, homeowners are now using it in unexpected places to add a touch of fun and surprise. Closets, linen closets, and small bars are being transformed with colourful and patterned wallpapers. These spaces, often overlooked, are given a new lease on life with vibrant designs. Wallpaper in unexpected places adds a sense of whimsy and personality, making every corner of the home feel special.

Natural Wood

Gone are the days of light and brightly painted walls in small spaces. Natural wood is coming back in 2024, adding warmth and cosiness to large and small areas. Wood siding is being used in spaces of all sizes, creating a sense of comfort and charm. This trend embraces the natural beauty of wood, making rooms feel inviting and grounded.

Secondary Spaces

2024 will see an increase in the creation of secondary spaces within kitchens. Homeowners are opting for additional wet bars, back kitchens, and butler's pantries to enhance the functionality and convenience of their kitchens. These secondary spaces can house additional refrigeration, warming drawers, built-in coffee systems, wine storage, and dishwashers. By expanding the kitchen with these secondary spaces, homeowners can prepare and store food more efficiently while maintaining a seamless aesthetic.

Intimate Dining Areas

In a departure from the once-popular open concept, there is a growing preference for separating the kitchen from the dining room. Designers are creating more intimate dining experiences by blocking direct access to the busy kitchen. This trend immerses guests in beautifully designed dining rooms reminiscent of popular period dramas. Intimate dining areas allow for a more focused and enjoyable dining experience, bringing people together in a beautifully curated space.

Modern Maximalism

Mid-century modern and subtle tones are giving way to modern maximalism in 2024. Clients seek more character and uniqueness in their rooms, embracing jewel tones and statement rugs. This trend combines vibrant colours with statement neutrals, creating a visually striking environment. Modern maximalism allows homeowners to showcase their personalities and create spaces that stand out.

Statement Tiles

Statement tiles are gaining popularity, especially in showers and wet areas. Homeowners are using statement or accent tiles to alleviate the monotony and introduce visual intrigue into these areas. As shower sizes grow, a statement tile can significantly impact, creating a focal point and increasing the overall design. This trend allows for creativity and personalization, turning ordinary bathrooms into extraordinary spaces.

Mixed Metals

Mixing metals is no longer taboo in interior design. Homeowners are opting to layer different hardware finishes throughout their homes, just like layering jewellery. This trend adds a playful and modern touch to spaces, allowing for a balance between different design elements. Closet hardware, in particular, is used to set the tone for a more playful or masculine space. Mixing metals adds visual interest and creates a unique and personalized look.

Hallways With Colorful Wallpaper

Corridors and hallways are often overlooked when it comes to design. However, in 2024, colourful wallpapers will bring these areas to life. Colourful wallpapers add vibrancy and personality to otherwise mundane spaces. Adding colourful wallpaper can make these spaces feel special and unique, whether it's a hallway used for coats, linen, towels, or small bars.

Muted Tones

Muted tones are set to become the new neutrals in 2024. Homeowners are expanding their definition of neutral to include soft blues, sage greens, dusty rose pinks, and buttery yellows. These muted tones serve as foundational colours, allowing for the incorporation of colour without overwhelming the space. Painting ceilings, mouldings, and baseboards with a soft contrasting neutral adds a creative and unique touch to any room.

Wellness Offerings

Wellness is a top priority for many homeowners, and in 2024, wellness offerings will be a prominent trend in interior design. Developers incorporate spectacular indoor and outdoor movie areas, rooftop pools, and co-working lounges into luxury developments. These spaces are designed to inspire and provide a certain lifestyle, complete with character, Wi-Fi, and enough outlets for charging. The focus on wellness extends to beach clubs and residences, where full-size bars are now sought-after elements in designing spaces for a specific lifestyle.

In conclusion, the interior design trends of 2024 promise to bring excitement, elegance, and personalization to homes. From woodgrain millwork to bold lighting and statement tiles, homeowners will have plenty of options to transform their spaces. Whether you prefer understated opulence or modern maximalism, there is a trend for every taste and style. Embrace these trends and create a home that reflects your unique personality and vision.

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In Conversation With: Topsy Taiwo, The Home Buying Agent and Social Media Property Expert

Photo credit: Topsy Taiwo’s instagram

Today, I sit down with Topsy Taiwo of the online platform, Property Purchaser. Frantically apologising, Topsy joins the conversation shortly after 5.30pm. His camera is not on yet as he is in the middle of clearing out his belongings from his flat. He is preparing to rent out his property on airbnb. “Stuff is all over the place” he quips. When he gathers himself, I ask him to tell readers, who don’t know, a little bit about himself. “I am Topsy Taiwo” he says, “I run a platform called Property Purchaser. Property Purchaser is a platform best described as a services platform for home buyers and home investors”.

Property purchaser

Topsy seamless without prompt goes on to explain his platform in depth. He eloquently provides a breakdown of the services that his platform offers and represents. “Those services are pretty much two things; giving advice and secondly sourcing properties for investors or first time buyers, who either have not got enough time or want a helping hand to guide them along that journey”. I can hear the pride in his voice when he speaks of his platform. Almost a labour of love that he has put a lot of dedication into. Topsy further expands on his platform, “it [has been] built out in such a way where I launch digital products as well. So e-books. I wrote my first book ‘So you want to buy a house’ which was designed to be a complete comprehensive guide for anyone looking to get their first property in the UK”.

He has started to gain some momentum when he speaks about Property Purchaser, so I ask what other services his platform offers? “So Partnerships and Referrals. If you’re a buyer and you’re looking for a good solicitor, a good surveyor, a good mortgage broker or you’re looking for a good accountant. I offer partnerships and referrals that I can refer [first time buyers] on to, to help [their] cause. So those are the 3 main services that I offer; advice, sourcing properties and digital products and partnerships with external parties”.

It is hard to believe the conversation has just begun. Topsy’s camera flicks on for the first time. The reflections from the street lights bounce across his chiseled face. He wears a simple t-shirt. The rest of his outfit is hidden from the frame. He explains his decision to relocate to a less disruptive location - his car. There is a slight chuckle from both of us before I continue with my questions. Where did your journey in property start? And how did it build from there? I ask. “I started in property in 2012. I went to the University of Birmingham. I graduated with a degree in..” there’s a longer than usual pause as I watch Topsy scan his brain for his next words. “International relations” he blurts out. “I nearly forgot what I did there, [it was] so long ago. I’m getting older”.

He regains his train of thought and continues, “I wasn’t able to secure, or get any job really, in any of the industries I wanted to get into. So professional services and investment banking [were] what my friends were doing but I couldn’t do that so I just thought to myself, instead, I’m [going to] go down a sales route. There was a website at the time called milkround.com and I applied to the first thing I saw on there - it was Foxtons. [I] went down to the interview and then 3 months later, I was there. And that was my first job in property. I stayed at Foxtons for 6 and a half years and then since then I’ve jumped around a bunch of different companies in the industry as well. So I’ve worked [in] property tech, property investment and I’ve also worked in the legal side of property as well. A few bits and bobs for sure”.

He sounds excited when he talks about his humble beginnings in property so I ask, what sparked that interest to stay within the property realm? He takes a moment before he responds. Repeating the question to himself, searching for an answer. “In terms of what sparked it, it wasn’t really intentional. There’s a classic quote in estate agency that ‘no one really grows up wanting to be an estate agent’. Some do but it is very rare. No one ever says that. It wasn’t anything intentional”. He says. “To answer [the] question in terms of what actually sparked it, I would say it was almost one of the few options I had left available to me at the same time, I was drawn to it because you got a free company car in the company that I started at and I guess a lot of people have also told me I was always a really good communicator and I had some sort of sales ability to me. So I thought OK, if those are two traits that I thought I’ve got innately, then I think those can be put to good use in estate agency”.  He adds “and I guess you could also say, my dad [has] got a few properties now and he’s been investing for a while so I had some level of exposure to it. Those were the initial triggers”.

Topsy speaking at @mcsaatchilondon on how to get on the property ladder

Advice for first time buyers

The current housing market has proven difficult for aspiring first time buyers. When it comes to advice for those looking to step on to the ladder, Topsy has some words. “I think the first thing anyone should do and I talk about this in the book - the first thing anyone should do is clearly establish their why”. He follows on with a broader outlook “I don’t even think that is a property specific piece of advice that’s just a career [and] general piece of life advice that I’ve sometimes not taken on board enough myself. If I could turn the time back and speak to my 21 year old self and speak to people who are just entering the industry. I would say really clearly establish your why. I think the likelihood of one achieving their goals is so much higher when you have a clear direction and an understanding of why you are going in that direction” he says. “That can very much be applied to property as well. So whether you’re a first time buyer or someone who’s looking to get started and work in the industry, [the] first step is to establish the why then [it] is to establish what kind of life style you want to live.”

Topsy’s advice shifts “it is also to understand what you want your day to day life to look like”. He builds upon this advice delving into the different strategies available to first timers. “There’s so many and some are very labour intensive. Others are very hands off and you don’t have to do too much. So if you’re the type of person that wants to be exposed to property but you don’t want to get your hands dirty, then you might want to get into the passive side of it. Which might be a vanilla Buy to Let. It might just be, I don’t know, investing in REITs that are available on the stock market”. He continues “or if you are someone that wants to get your hands dirty you might be thinking about more creative strategies like Deal Sourcing, or Buy, Refurbish, Refinance once you’ve been able to build your capital up. These are more labour intensive strategies so you need to ask yourself those sorts of questions to understand what direction you want to start heading in”.

Topsy speaking at @mcsaatchilondon on how to get on the property ladder

Topsy pauses to apologise for what seems to be a “long winded” answer to him. He chuckles in a hurry to conclude his point “but it all starts with the why, and then after that, it all starts with education and making sure you’re following the right people on social media and really sort of just getting your head immersed in that world because no one really knows what they want to do when they’re growing up. You have to just explore and taste and test and then work it out.”

property and Social Media

Topsy has a really good social presence on the likes of instagram, I guess some of his delivery is very humorous and in a way a little bit comedic. So I ask, what made him choose that delivery style in a lot of his property content?. “I’ve always been, I guess, a bit of an entertainer at heart to be honest with you. So when I think back to my younger years, I was always the one on stage dancing, [I was] always the one who wanted to perform in one way or another. So I guess that’s sort of a personality trait - number one. And then secondly, humour is a really good way to make what, traditionally, can be quite a boring and dull topic, resonate more. It’s why meme pages on instagram do so well, it’s because they’re just relatable. When you make someone laugh, I guess they’re more likely to digest that content or remember it and for it to be memorable. So there is some method behind the madness. But I would definelty say it starts off with the fact that I like entertaining and I love laughing and I love comedy so much. In a different life I would have probably been some form of actor or entertainer”.

Topsy continues “I think it’s a really good way to educate aswell. I think a lot of people talk about that classic merging of two words - edutainment, if you want to call it that. So that’s the reason why I sometimes drop those videos. I mean I don’t do it as regularly now to be honest with you but in the past I really enjoyed it and every now and then I have a funny idea, I think right, I’ve got to make a video on this for sure”.

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A post shared by Topsy Taiwo (@topsytaiwo)

‘So you want to buy a house’

I ask Topsy about his book, and for those who have purchased it, will there be more of that comedic delivery? Or will it be more on the serious side? “Funnily enough, the book probably isn’t as comedic. There’s definitely some light hearted parts in it for sure. But erm, I thought to myself, if I’m publishing something, and people are reading this and people are [going to], I guess, potentially use [it] to make life decisions, I want to keep it as formal as I can with some light heartedness in there as well. But I very much wrote it with the mind of.. someone’s actual life could depend on this so let me not joke around too much here” Topsy says playfully.

Whilst readers may not be on the receiving end of pure comedy in ‘so you want to buy a house’, there’s certainly other takeaways that can be gained from the book. Topsy explains “first and foremost, you will fully understand the timeline and the chronology of the home buying process. Which I think sometimes can be a bit daunting. People don’t really understand how much goes into it, how many parties are involved, how long it can take and what’s necessary from you to buy a house. So that’s the first thing. I’d say the second thing is [that] they will get a good understanding of the UK property market and how it’s behaved historically and how to make better data driven decisions and just to feel more confident when you’re going forward and looking to buy a house”. He says “they are going to understand how agents work, understand how they make decisions, understand how you can increase the likelihood of your offer getting accepted, understand what certain things on rightmove mean, understand the best tools and how to leverage rightmove in the best way and other tools to use to make sure [their] search isn’t too painful. There’s lots of little things in there that I know people are going to get value from”.

Topsy e-book, ‘So you want to buy a house’

Topsy’s take on the book’s overall message is slightly different to what readers may expect, “I guess to sort of round it off in terms of, erm, the book itself, there’s also a bit at the end which basically just tells you what other options you’ve got. I focus a lot, in the book, basically sort of asking the question or putting forward the idea that maybe buying a house is maybe a bad idea” he counter argues. “Because a lot of the property people in our space, I’ve found, people sort of have tunnel vision. I say to a lot of people there’s nothing wrong with just renting. Because renting is fine as well. In a weird way, my mission is not to get as many people onto the property ladder as possible it’s to get people to make the best decision [that] they can. If that makes sense”.

Future projects on the horizon

“So I had a bit of quiet year last year. I’m very [much] still, in my mind, sort of a work in progress as well, erm, for my own personal reasons I had a bit of a quiet year. And I haven’t made any New Years resolutions this year either. But one thing I have said is that I want to build the platform I’ve got, Property Purchaser, to the largest platform that it can be. I’m not the type of person to pick arbitrary metrics of engagement, likes and followers, because I think that will just take care of itself if you’re consistent, you enjoy what you do and you work hard. The by product of that will be engagement and whatever else you want, so yeah my goal or what you can expect is the same as what I’ve been doing. There [are] a few things I’m working on that I can’t talk about too much at the moment and just more of the same, more content, more education, and hopefully some more comedy. My main aim is to offer value in some way shape or form [to whoever] comes across my profile or my business. That’s the main aim”.

Follow Topsy Taiwo on instagram @topsytaiwo and @propertypurchaser.

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Home Renovation: A Complete Guide to Successfully Transforming Your House

Are you considering giving your house a fresh new look? Home renovations can be exciting yet overwhelming. If you're unsure where to start or how to transform your house, you've come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the entire process, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to ensure a successful home renovation. From planning and budgeting to choosing the right materials and finding reliable contractors, we've got you covered. Whether you're looking to update your kitchen, revamp your bathroom, or completely transform your living space, this guide will help you achieve your remodelling goals. Get ready to create the home of your dreams!

Assessing a Home's Renovation Potential

Before embarking on a home renovation project, assessing a property's renovation potential is crucial. This involves carefully evaluating the existing build's configuration, layout, and materials. Consider whether the home's floor plan needs to be restructured to create the desired spaces and how feasible this reconfiguration will be. Additionally, take note of the building's construction method and materials, as they will impact the renovation process and costs.

When assessing renovation potential, it's also essential to consider the home's location and any planning restrictions that may apply. Look for nearby properties that have undergone similar renovations to gauge the local planning authority's acceptance of such changes. Commissioning a building report by a chartered professional can provide a more thorough assessment of the property's condition and potential renovation challenges.

Understanding Planning Permission Requirements

Home renovations can often be carried out under permitted development rights, which allow for certain alterations without planning permission. However, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with the specific regulations in your area and determine whether your proposed renovations fall within the permitted development guidelines. Engaging in early discussions with your local planning authority can help ensure that your plans align with the necessary requirements.

You may need to submit a planning application for more significant changes and structural alterations. It's advisable to consult with your neighbours and show them your plans before proceeding with the application. This proactive approach can help address any issues or concerns they may have and potentially avoid objections during the planning process. If your property is located in a designated conservation area or is listed, additional planning restrictions may apply, requiring careful consideration and consultation with relevant authorities.

Setting a Realistic Renovation Budget

Setting a practical budget for your renovation is crucial to keep your project financially on course. Before starting any work, carefully assess your financial resources and determine the maximum amount you will invest in the renovation. Ideally, you should aim to spend less on the renovation than the projected increase in the property's value after completion.

When crafting your budget, consider all potential expenses such as materials, labour, permits, and any unforeseen costs that might occur during the renovation. It's wise to allocate a contingency fund of at least 10% of the total budget to handle any unexpected issues or alterations that may arise during the project. By carefully managing your budget, you can avoid overspending and ensure that your renovation remains financially viable.

Enhancing Energy Efficiency with Insulation Upgrades

Improving energy efficiency is a key consideration in modern home renovations. Improving your home's insulation can lower energy usage and enhance the comfort of your living space. Assess the existing insulation levels and consider whether additional insulation is required, particularly in older homes with poor thermal performance.

The choice of insulation materials will depend on the construction type and condition of your home. Cavity wall insulation is relatively straightforward to install in homes built post-1950, while solid wall insulation may be necessary for older properties. It's essential to ensure that any insulation upgrades are installed correctly to prevent moisture-related issues such as condensation and dampness.

In addition to insulation, consider installing energy-efficient heating systems and appliances. Enhancing your heating system to a more efficient model or incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels or heat pumps can significantly reduce your energy consumption and environmental impact.

Maximising Space with Loft and Garage Conversions

As part of your home renovation project, you may consider maximising your home's space through loft or garage conversions. These conversions can provide valuable additional living areas, such as bedrooms, offices, or playrooms, without extending the property's footprint.

Converting garages typically demands less planning permission and can often proceed under permitted development rights. However, it's essential to ensure that your project complies with building regulations and meets the requirements for change of use.

Loft conversions are another popular option for creating additional space. Before undertaking a loft conversion, assess the roof and floor structure, design a suitable staircase scheme, and consider the insulation and lighting requirements for the new room.

See Also: 15 BUDGET-FRIENDLY HOME RENOVATION IDEAS FOR EVERY ROOM

Hiring a Professional Project Manager or Taking on the Role Yourself

Deciding whether to hire a professional project manager or take on the role yourself is a crucial consideration in a home renovation project. A project manager oversees the entire renovation process, coordinating contractors, managing timelines, and ensuring that the project stays within budget.

If you have experience in project management or a keen eye for budgets and planning, you may take on the role yourself to save costs. However, remember that managing a renovation project requires extensive knowledge and expertise. Hiring a professional project manager may be worthwhile to ensure a smooth and successful renovation journey.

Transforming Your Home's Exterior with New Cladding

Upgrading your home's exterior cladding is an effective way to enhance its appearance and improve its thermal performance. With a wide range of cladding options available, you can choose a material that complements your desired aesthetic and offers insulation benefits.

Consider factors such as the weight of the cladding material, suitability for the local climate, and planning restrictions that may apply. Timber cladding is a popular choice due to its versatility and sustainability, while fibre cement cladding offers resistance to weathering and can replicate the look of timber.

When planning a cladding upgrade, ensure that it complies with local planning regulations, especially if your property is located in a conservation area or is listed. Consulting with a professional can help you choose the most appropriate cladding material and guarantee that the installation meets the required standards.

Exploring Heating and Renewable Energy Options

During your home renovation, it's an opportune time to explore heating and renewable energy options that can improve your home's energy efficiency. Think about upgrading your heating system to a more efficient model or integrating renewable energy sources like solar panels or heat pumps.

Gas boilers remain popular due to their affordability and wide range of product options. However, heat pumps, such as ground-source heat pumps (GSHPs) or air-source heat pumps, offer greater energy efficiency and lower running costs. Assess your home's insulation levels and energy demands to determine the most suitable heating solution.

Additionally, consider installing underfloor heating or upgrading your radiators to improve heat distribution throughout your home. Pairing your heating system with smart thermostats and energy management systems can further optimise energy consumption and reduce costs.

Upgrading Your Roof Covering for Aesthetics and Functionality

Replacing your roof covering can significantly transform your home's appearance and increase its value. While roof replacements can be costly, they are often necessary for homes with damaged or weathered roofs.

Consider the weight and suitability of different roofing materials based on your home's structure and location. Clay or slate tiles are popular options, offering durability and aesthetic appeal. However, other materials like metal roofing or fibre cement can provide cost-effective alternatives with their own unique advantages.

Ensure that any changes to your roof covering comply with planning regulations, particularly if your property is located in a conservation area or is listed. Working with professionals experienced in roof replacements can assist you in choosing the right materials and ensure a high-quality installation.

Prioritising Safety and Compliance

Throughout the home renovation process, it's essential to prioritise safety and compliance with building regulations. Ensure that any structural changes or modifications meet the necessary standards for integrity and safety. This may involve consulting with structural engineers or other specialists to assess the impact of proposed renovations.

Additionally, consider the safety of your family and any workers involved in the renovation. Follow correct safety protocols, supply suitable protective gear, and ensure all construction tasks are conducted in a controlled and safe manner.

Selecting Reliable Contractors and Suppliers

Choosing reliable contractors and suppliers is a crucial aspect of a successful home renovation. Research and interview multiple contractors to find professionals with a proven track record and favourable reviews. Request references, view previous projects, and ensure that they have the necessary licenses and insurance coverage.

Obtain detailed quotes or estimates from multiple contractors to compare costs and services. Be cautious of substantially low quotes, as they could suggest poor workmanship or the use of inferior materials. Effective communication and transparency are important when collaborating with contractors, so set clear expectations and timelines.

Similarly, when selecting suppliers for materials and fixtures, choose reputable companies known for their quality and reliability. Consider factors such as warranties, after-sales support, and the environmental impact of the products.

Staying Organised and Communicating Effectively

Staying organised and maintaining effective communication is vital throughout the home renovation process. Keep detailed records of all documentation, including contracts, permits, and invoices. Create a project timeline and regularly review progress to ensure the renovation stays on schedule.

Keep communication clear and honest with everyone involved in the project, like suppliers, contractors, and local authorities. Regularly update your project manager or team members on any changes or issues. Promptly address any concerns or challenges to prevent delays or costly mistakes. You can reduce disruptions and ensure a smooth and successful home renovation by staying well-organised and encouraging good communication.

Taking on a home renovation project can be fulfilling, allowing you to craft a personalised and functional living space. By carefully considering the renovation potential of a property, understanding planning requirements, setting a realistic budget, and prioritising energy efficiency and safety, you can ensure the success of your renovation. Remember to work with reliable professionals, stay organised, and communicate effectively throughout the process. With careful planning and effective implementation, your home renovation will transform your house into the home of your dreams.

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15 Budget-Friendly Home Renovation Ideas for Every Room

Renovating your home can be an exciting but expensive endeavour. However, with careful planning and creativity, you can give each room in your house a fresh look without breaking the bank. This article will explore 19 budget-friendly home renovation ideas that can be applied to every room in your house. Whether you're looking to update your kitchen, bathroom, living room, bedroom, home office, or outdoor space, these ideas inspire you to transform your home without emptying your wallet.

Setting a Budget for Your Home Renovation

Before you begin fixing up your home, deciding how much money you can spend is important. Figure out a budget for each room, and make sure you don't go over it. Remember to account for any unexpected expenses during the renovation process. With a clear budget, you can prioritize your spending and make informed decisions throughout the project.

In the Kitchen: New Countertops

Upgrading your countertops is one of the most impactful changes you can make in your kitchen. While cabinets can be expensive to replace, you can save money by keeping them and investing in new countertops instead. If your cabinets are in good condition, this budget-friendly renovation idea allows you to focus on one of the hardest working surfaces in your home. Choose a material that fits your price and complements your kitchen decor. Consider asking your local stone and tile company about seconds or remnants to save even more.

In the Kitchen: Change the Backsplash

Another cost-effective way to refresh your kitchen is by changing the backsplash. A tired backsplash can make your kitchen look dated, but a fresh, new one can instantly add visual interest. There are plenty of options to choose from, including tile, stone, glass, ceramic, and beaded board. Pick a material that suits your budget and personal style. If you're looking to save even more, consider installing a backsplash only in the areas that need the most protection, such as behind the range or near the sink.

In the Kitchen, Add a Faux Island

If you have a kitchen that lacks an island, you can create the illusion of one by adding a standalone table or cabinet. Simply attach rolling casters to the piece so that you can move it around as needed. Remember that the more extras you add, such as drawers or cabinets, the more expensive this home renovation idea will be. If you're on a tight budget, start with a simple table. Alternatively, if you have an unused piece of furniture, repurpose it into an island.

In the Kitchen: Upgrade Cabinets or Cabinet Doors

Painting, wallpapering, or peel-and-stick wood products are affordable options to give your cabinets a fresh look. You can also add corbels below cabinets or under floating shelves for a built-in look. Removing doors on some upper cabinets can provide easy-to-access open storage without additional shelving. When refreshing your cabinets, consider how you use the space on a daily basis and choose options that fit your budget and lifestyle.

In the Living Room: Update Flooring

Updating your flooring can completely transform your living room. Many peel-and-stick flooring options are thin enough that you don't have to remove existing flooring, which can save you time and money. However, replacing your current floor doesn't have to be expensive if you can't stand your current floor. There are many DIY options available that can help you save on labour costs. Whether you choose luxury vinyl plank or natural hardwood, a new floor can give your living room a budget-friendly upgrade.

In the Living Room: Change Window Treatments

A simple and affordable way to refresh your living room is by changing the window treatments. Consider adding new fabric shades or curtains to add a pop of colour or pattern. If you're on a tight budget, there are plenty of sew-it-yourself options that can hide older windows without breaking the bank. Don't forget to reuse the existing curtain rods and rings to save even more money.

In the Living Room: Install Dimmers

If your living room has limited overhead lighting, installing dimmer switches can be a quick and easy home renovation idea. Dimmers let you adjust the brightness of the lights, providing the perfect balance for different activities. This is especially useful in older homes with fewer floor and side lamp outlets. Keep it bright when you need task lighting, and turn it down for softer ambient lighting when you want to create a cosy atmosphere.

In the Bathroom: Wallpaper an Accent Wall

Wallpaper has become more accessible for DIYers, making it a great option for a budget-friendly home renovation idea in the bathroom. Wallpaper can add pattern and colour to your space, instantly transforming the look and feel of the room. If you're not ready to commit to traditional wallpaper, try the temporary, peel-and-stick kind. It's simple to put on and take off, so you can try out various looks without making a long-term commitment.

In the Bathroom: Add Storage

If your bathroom doesn't have enough storage, consider adding purchased cabinets or open shelves. There are various off-the-shelf storage options available in different styles, such as tiered carts, leaning ladders, and apothecary cabinets. These options maximize vertical space and provide a practical storage solution. Use them to display baskets or other decorative accents, adding both functionality and style to your bathroom.

In the Bedroom: Add Interest to Walls or Ceilings

Dull bedroom walls or ceilings can easily be transformed with the addition of wainscoting or trim. You don't need a stash of power tools to achieve this look. Apply trim or lumber to the wall as an outline, then use paint to create a seamless connection between the wall and trim. This home renovation idea gives your bedroom a high-end look without the high-end price tag. Choose prefinished millwork to save labour time, or finish it yourself for additional savings.

In the Bedroom: Add a Headboard

A headboard can instantly update the look of your bedroom. Whether you choose a small, stately design or an oversized and dramatic one, a headboard adds style and character to your space. Purchasing a new headboard can be expensive, but there are plenty of DIY options available that allow you to maximize your style and budget.

In the Bedroom: Inset Display Shelves

Children's bedrooms often present unique challenges when it comes to storage. As kids grow, their belongings change, and finding storage solutions can be difficult. A budget-friendly home renovation idea for a child's bedroom is to add narrow, wall-to-wall shelves. These shelves provide space for storing toys, books, and other items without taking up valuable floor space. They're affordable and can be adjusted to fit different bedroom sizes.

In the Dining Room, Install a New Light Fixture

A new light fixture can make a dramatic impact on your dining room. Replace the outdated fixture with a more modern one to give your space a fresh new look. Whether you choose a traditional chandelier or multiple pendant lights, a new light fixture can become the focal point of your dining room. If you're unsure how to install a light fixture, plenty of online tutorials are available to guide you through the process.

In the Entry: Create a Mini Mudroom

Even in a small space, you can create a mini mudroom that is both functional and budget-friendly. All you need is a seat, a shelf, and hooks to make a life-changing addition to your entryway. Combine reused and repurposed pieces with affordable new items to create a cohesive and practical storage solution. If space allows, consider assigning a cubby for each family member to make the daily routine easier.

In the Entry: Paint the Stairs

Make a statement in your home by adding a creative touch to your staircase. Use paint to create a pattern or theme that complements your decor style. Alternatively, choose a bold, attention-grabbing colour to make your stairs a showstopper. Once the paint is dry, safeguard the finish with a coat of polyurethane. You can keep the same design or update it seasonally to impress your family and friends.

Start planning your budget-friendly home renovations today and transform your living space without breaking the bank. With these ideas as inspiration, you can create a beautiful home that reflects your style. Happy renovating!

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11 Expert Interior Design Tips to Create Your Dream Home

Designing and styling your home can be an exciting and fulfilling process. It's an opportunity to turn your living space into an expression of your personality and preferences. But where do you start? With so many elements to consider, from paint colors to furniture placement, it can feel overwhelming. That's why we've compiled 11 expert interior design tips to guide you along the way. Whether you're renovating an entire house or simply refreshing a room, these professional-approved tips will help you create a dream home that is both functional and stylish.

1. Embrace Your Personal Style

When it comes to interior design, there are no rights or wrongs. Everyone has the potential to design their own home, so it's important to embrace your personal style. While home decor trends can provide inspiration, your home should ultimately be a true reflection of your taste. Take the latest trends into account, but always put your own spin on them to make your home special. After all, your home is where you spend most of your time, so it should reflect you.

2. Create a Mood Board for Inspiration

Transforming your interiors from tired to revitalized starts with gathering inspirational images. Create a mood board using a large foam board and pins. Gather fabric, wallpaper, furniture, and flooring samples that you're considering for use. This will help you visualize how they will all work together within the room. Explore various textures and colors to introduce depth and enhance visual interest. Place the mood board in the room and live with it for a while to see if it resonates with your vision.

3. Repurpose and Upcycle

Good interior design isn't always about buying new. At times, it's about cleverly utilizing what you already possess. Consider repurposing or upcycling furniture and accessories to give them a fresh look. For example, reupholstering an old sofa can breathe new life into it. Don't be afraid to get creative and think outside the box. Not only is this approach environmentally-friendly and budget-conscious, but it also adds a personal touch to your home.

4. Play with Color

Selecting a color palette for your home can feel overwhelming. While it's important to consider trends and aesthetics, the most important factor is what you love. There are no strict rules when it comes to color, but it's best to avoid too much color clash or over-saturation. A helpful guideline is to allocate 60% of the room to your dominant hue, 30% to your secondary hue, and 10% to accents. Draw inspiration from nature if you're struggling to decide on a starting point.

5. Test Paint Colors and Wallpaper

Colors can appear differently depending on lighting, so it's crucial to test them before committing to a whole room. Buy sample pots of paint and apply them to A2-sized sections on both the lightest and darkest walls within the same room. Observe how natural light affects the shade throughout the day. The same goes for wallpaper tape samples to the walls or drape large returnable samples over existing furniture or curtains. Take your time to evaluate how the colors work in the space before making a final decision.

6. Consider Scale and Proportion

When selecting furniture, it's essential to consider scale and proportion. In a large room, opt for a big sofa and footstool to create a balanced and inviting space. Even small rooms can benefit from one large statement piece, such as a headboard in a bedroom. Finding the right balance of large and small pieces will help create an appealing living space. Take measurements and visualize how each piece will fit into the room before making a purchase.

7. Live in the Space Before Decorating

While it can be tempting to rush into decorating a new home or renovated room, it's important to take your time. Live in the space for a while before making any major design decisions. Collect pieces as you come across them, rather than settling for what's immediately available. This allows you to curate a collection of items that you truly love and that fit seamlessly into your home. Take the opportunity to analyze the look and colors of your room with accessories and gradually add elements that enhance the overall design.

8. Explore Unique Paint Ideas

The era of rigid paint rules is a thing of the past. Modern interior design encourages creativity and personal expression. Traditional ideas like painting doors, frames, skirting boards, and ceilings in brilliant white are no longer the only options. Consider alternative approaches, like matching the skirting boards' color with the walls, to establish a seamless flow and visually expand the room. Experiment with diverse colors and finishes to infuse depth and character into your living space.

9. Measure Properly for Curtains and Blinds

When it comes to window treatments, proper measurement is key. Before ordering blinds or curtains, ensure you have accurate measurements of your windows. This will prevent any costly mistakes or ill-fitting treatments. Custom sizes may be more expensive, but they will give your home a professionally designed look. Additionally, take the time to learn what not to do when choosing curtains to avoid common mishaps and ensure that your window treatments enhance the overall aesthetic of the room.

10. Add Finishing Touches

The finishing touches are what bring a room together and give it character. Consider adding elements like lampshades, rugs, cushions, paintings, and plants to complete the look. These small details can make a significantly impact in the overall ambiance of a space. Don't underestimate the power of accents – even the colors on the spines of books on a bookshelf or a throw on the back of a sofa can create opportunities for pops of color and added visual interest.

11. Engage the Senses with Signature Fragrances

After you've added all the accessories and finishing touches, consider engaging the senses by incorporating a signature fragrance into your home. Smell plays a significant role in how a space feels, especially to guests. Choose a scent that resonates with you and create a consistent aroma throughout your home. Scented candles, diffusers, and essential oils are all great options for infusing your space with a delightful fragrance that will make you feel instantly at home.

Starting on the journey to design your dream home is an exhilarating experience, enabling you to showcase your creativity and style. By following to these expert interior design tips, you can turn your living space into a chic and functional sanctuary. Embrace your personal style, create a mood board for inspiration, repurpose and upcycle, play with color, test paint colors and wallpaper, consider scale and proportion, live in the space before decorating, explore unique paint ideas, measure properly for curtains and blinds, add finishing touches, and engage the senses with signature fragrances. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to creating a home that reflects your unique personality and taste.

Remember, the cornerstone of effective interior design is to craft your home as a true reflection of yourself. So, don't be afraid to break the rules and experiment with different ideas. Have fun and enjoy the process of creating a space that you love coming home to. Happy designing!

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An inside story of DIY panelling with home renovations content creator, Judith Madukwe

One of the biggest home renovations trends of 2023 was DIY Panelling, with homeowner enthusiasts across all facets of the home renovations space trying their hand at their own panelling projects. Many were complete beginners, picking up their first mitre saw with little know how but they were still able to inspire others along their DIY journey.

Judith Madukwe pictured in her home

So what should aspiring ‘do it yourselfers’ keep in mind when embarking on their own home panelling project? Well we caught up with Judith Madukwe, a home DIY and renovations content creator, to share her panelling project story. Judith took on the complex task of panelling her entire home which she documented on Instagram for thousands of other DIY lovers:

Photo credit: Judith’s stairs from @ChampagneHouse_ProseccoBudget instagram

CM: For those who do not know, tell us a little bit about yourself?

Judith: I’m Judith. I'm 44 and a mum of 2 amazing kids. I work full time as a derivatives lawyer for an asset manager, but love all things home renovation, DIY and styling.

CM: Have you always been into Home DIY and renovations?

Judith: Oh yes!! I used to watch a show called Changing Rooms back in the day and was obsessed with Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen and his bold designs! I then moved onto shows like Grand Designs which focused more on the entire construction of a home which definitely sparked my interest in renovations. I also liked watching other UK shows, like Homes under the Hammer, Location, Location, Location and Love it or List it. During one stage in my life, I dated a guy from the US and during my trips there, I would binge watch My Dream Home and other shows by the Property Brothers whilst he was at work ! Lol. I just love to see a before and after and it's always fun to watch how people create and bring a design to life. 

CM: What made you decide to do the panelling in your home yourself?

Judith: To be honest, it was simply because I couldn't afford to hire someone to do it for me. The quote I received was in the 1000s, and I just thought ...."no thanks, I'm not paying that much". I then watched a few videos online I figured that I knew what a 45 degree angle was, and how to glue a piece of wood to my wall. So decided to give it a go myself. I soon found out that panelling wasn't necessarily as simple as that!!

Photo credit: Judith Madukwe painting the stairs after panelling from @ChampagneHouse_ProseccoBudget instagram

CM: How did you learn? and how long did it take to finish the project?

Judith: My project took a whopping 11 months!!!!! Lol. Now don't let that put you off because it honestly didn't need to be. However, as a full time employee and full time parent, I didn't always have the time to work on it. I would sneek in a 2hr or so slot here or there, late in the evenings after coming home from work (which is why alot of the [instagram] stories I would do would often be recorded past midnight). Sometimes I would do some work on the weekend, especially if I needed to use my saw to cut the wood panels which would make alot of noise, so I reserved that for the day time. Sometimes I would become busy with life and panelling just wasn't a priority for me. 

In terms of how I learnt how to do the panelling.... well I learnt as i went along and made mistakes along the way which i also learnt from. I used to see videos pop up on my Instagram feed of other home content creators doing theirs. They made it look so easy and definitely inspired me to do my own. I then went over to Youtube and watched some of their "How to" videos before I started. However, when I then started my own project and stumbled across numerous problems, I watched several youtube videos by @TheHome ImprovementChannel which seemed to answer ever question I had! I also relied alot on my followers. I would ask them questions in my stories because I honestly had no clue at times about what I was doing, especially when it came to panelling the stairs. My followers really came through for me, gave me great advice and came along the journey and kept me going. 

Photo credit: Judith’s finished panelling from @ChampagneHouse_ProseccoBudget instagram

CM: What would you say the main challenges were?

Judith: Oh, definitely panelling the stairs. My word!! The calculations would drive me insane lol. I just couldn't work out what angle to cut the top dado rail to connect to the bottom rail. So I reached out to my followers and they were so helpful. One lovely lady even reached out to another content creator for me, and then sent me her response along with a picture of what the dado rail should look like when finished. Her response was invaluable and brought the end to days if not weeks of stress!! That's one thing I love about the Home Renovation Instagram family; everyone is so helpful and lovely. It really is like a little community. 

CM: Would you do anything differently?

Judith: No, not at all. I absolutely loved the project. Learnt so much and found it quite therapeutic. I'm already thinking about what I want my new project to be for 2024.

CM: Bonus question: What is one thing in your home that you could not live without?

Judith: My wardrobe room. It's small and needs to be decluttered, but it's my little sanctuary.

Follow Judith Madukwe on instagram @ChampagneHouse_ProseccoBudget for more DIY and home renovations content.

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The next generation of interior designers: 3 inspiring interior designers to watch for 2024

Interior design is something dear to most homeowners when making a house a home. Or even for business owners that want that special stamp on their spaces. If you do not have a knack for styling then outsourcing the design activities can be a great option. The interior design space is filled with talented entrepreneurs and stylists who are able to help bring spaces to life.

Left to Right: Teni Adelegan of @Studioteni, Zoie Peters of @zoiepetersx, Feliciana Dalley of @felieinteriors, Photo Credit: Instagram, Illustration: Casa by Marie

With that being said, we have rounded up three interior designers that are rising in their field and we think you should watch out for in 2024:

Photo credit: Newly styled Chrissy bales salon from @Studioteni instagram

Studio Teni

Studio Teni is an Interior Designer who has been elevating everyday living spaces for over three years. Teni started her interior design business without a design degree, going on to design spaces for established business owners and homeowners a like. Her most notable retail project to date being, the interior design of Chrissy bales salon. Studio Tent opted for an array of modern aesthetics that were perfectly contrasted with oak and gold, finishing off with simple black accents across the salon.

Photo Credit: Zoie Peters newly designed toilet from @zoieinteriors instagram

Zoie Interiors

Zoie Peters specialises in Interior Architecture and Design. She has been transforming other peoples spaces for over a decade. Recently venturing on to buy a new home with her partner and taking on the task of designing her own home. Her chosen designs for the media wall allowed for a perfect focal point in the front room and the colour choices in the newly designed toilet seamlessly applies a breath of fresh air with the navy, gold and marble effect combination.

Photo credit: A Felie interiors project from @felieinteriors instagram

Felie Interiors

Felie Interiors was founded by Feliciana. It is a new age Interior design studio that is redefining luxury. With their homeware brand Felie home and kids line Felie kids, Felie Interiors promotes well being through the world of home decor. Felie Interiors has also taken her interior design skills to the next level, offering design courses to aspiring interior designers that explores design styles and identifying design groups.

We are sure these three rising interior designer will excel in 2024. Follow their incredible design projects on Instagram.

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Why appointing a mortgage broker as a first time home buyer is beneficial

Photo credit: unsplash

Are you curious to know why home buyers opt for mortgage brokers ? Mortgage brokers are the crème de le crème of the property buying market. They are the intermediary between the homebuyers and the lenders that are perfectly positioned to help aspiring homeowners find the best suited mortgage product for their requirements.

Though many home buyers do choose to go down the mortgage broker route there are still a substantial number of first time buyers that go straight to their existing bank or even select the first mortgage product they find. Whilst the comfort of your existing bank may offer an appeal, engaging with a mortgage broker who has a more holistic view of the market can yield better results.

Here’s three reasons why working with a mortgage broker is beneficial:

Save time and money

Independently approaching multiple lenders across the market will be time consuming. Eventhough the best comparison websites available can produce quick results, they do not always browse with a fine tooth comb. Mortgage brokers maticulaous spend time comparing products across the market on your behalf which saves time.  Since they will already have a detailed idea of your financial position and personal circumstance, they are also able to select the most cost effect products so not to break the bank.

Specialist Recommendations

Since mortgage brokers have a view of the entire mortgage product landscape and they are also able to assess an individuals circumstance with their exstensive market knowledge. Mortgage brokers have the latest tools and market insights at their disposal to know which products that you are likely to be approved therefore able to arrive at the best recommendation to suit your predefined requirements.

Rate Check

Once they’ve recommended a product that you are happy with, mortgage brokers can equally continue to apply a rate check. Buying a property can take well up to and over 6 months to complete. During the process of buying a property, it is possible that interest rates can fluctuate in this period. Mortgage brokers are able to apply rate checks after a product offer has been accepted to determine whether a better rate has become available thus amending the product in line with current interest rates.

The best point in the buying process to engage a mortgage broker would be before starting the property search. Once they have been engaged, the benefits they add to helping secure the best deal is exception.

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Buying Your First Home Webinar by Brickzwithtipz: The platform educating first time buyers onto the property ladder

It is 7pm on a cold Wednesday evening. Tayo Oguntonade, one of the co-founders of Brickzwithtipz is wearing a simple black T-shirt scanning the near one thousand participants joining his webinar, “Buying Your First Home: The Homebuyers Club”. His partner and co-founder, Antoinette Oguntonade, has packed her hair back and out of her face eagerly waiting for the session to commence.

Photo Credit: Black Business Magazine

Tayo and Antoinette are most known for their informative property tips and home buying content that has garnered them collaborations with renowned brands like The Daily Express, Zoopla and more. Combined, they have over ten years of expertise within the property industry. After buying their first property in 2015 and going on to found Brickzwithtipz in 2019 - the platform that uses education to bridge the gap between dreams and reality, Tayo and Antoinette have formed the perfect duo.

On this occasion, the duo are joined by David Gissing, a mortgage broker and property & finance specialist to deliver the ‘Buying Your first Home’ webinar. The webinar aims to dispel any limiting beliefs around the notions of buying a first or second home. “Buying a home in the UK is still possible” since “300,000 people buy homes each year”, Tayo encourages.

Photo credit: Antoinette Oguntonade (bottom), Tayo Oguntonade (middle) and David Gissing (top) pictured on the Buying Your First Home webinar.

In the short 1 hour webinar, we have rounded up the key tips, takeaways and topics covered:

Property fundamentals

Tayo kicks things off discussing the dynamics of the UK Housing market, making a key comparison between house prices in 2021 vs 2023. The average house was £260,429 in 2021 vs £292,049 in 2023 according to the first slide of the PowerPoint flashed across the screen. “The right time to buy was yesterday. Don’t wait to buy property. Buy property and wait” says Tayo.

Aspiring home buyers have been quick to highlight the disparities between the difficulty of buying today and that of buying even two years earlier. Tayo walks the forum through the various property cycles that can occur over the years in the property market, most notably the “explosive phase” (also known as a sellers market where there is high demand and limited supply) and the ‘recession phase” (where there is high supply and limited demand in a buyers market).

Schemes and Strategies

The second section of the webinar continues with Tayo taking the majority of the lead, captivating the audience with the “answer to a problem”, the problem being the difficulties of the housing market. And the answer being schemes and strategies available to help first time buyers save for a deposit.

His voice picks up in pace in a race against the clock to cover each section in depth. “Start with setting a savings plan” Tayo advises. By setting the savings plan, it creates a goal to achieve each month. One of the recommendations is to open a dedicated savings ISA and automate savings so that money is automatically saved from your monthly pay cheque.

Photo Credit: Antoinette Oguntonade from Brickzwithtipz instagram

Tayo advises to cut down on “regular” non essentials with the caveat that simple guilty pleasures here and there are fine. It is not about cutting out a coffee here and there but having a strategic plan towards how much needs to be saved each month. Antoinette interjects “maintaining disciplined” is the key. (See 3 habits that will get you closer to buying your first home).

It is the end of the second section. Tayo takes a breath and gleefully laughs with David Gissing before he hands over to him for a walkthrough of the value of a mortgage broker. David Gissing takes the floor. He covers the importance of credit when trying to get approved for a mortgage, particularly around getting a mortgage with adverse credit. David’s top tips for credit building are getting a credit builder card, recording your rent and registering on the electoral roll to position yourself as a reliable borrower.

Before ending the second section, the three hosts discuss the different schemes available to get onto the property ladder such as rent to buy, developer schemes, shared ownership and right to buy. Even briefly touching on the lender schemes available such as Nationwide’s helping hand mortgages.

Photo Credit: David Gissing from @davegissing instagram

Picking your property

The final section of the webinar circles back to Tayo whizzing through the final sections. The clock ticks past the allotted time whilst he blitzes through the ‘Negotiating know how’ tips - one such tip is for reduced properties. A property that has been reduced once potentially presents an opportunity to double down and try to get a further reduction.

First time buyers can buy a fixer upper (a property that is habitable but requires cosmetic work) in order to get onto the property ladder. It is the end of the webinar and Tayo delves through the differences between leasehold and freehold property options as well as new builds and old builds.

It’s just past 8.30pm and the webinar is drawing to a close. Tayo thanks the audience of over four hundred attendees that remain past the hour. He takes the final moments to showcase the launch of their new platform ‘The homebuyers Club’ which is due to go live on 31st January 2024.

Follow @brickzwithtipz on instagram more details on ‘The Homebuyers Club’.

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Top Picks: The best retail brands to furnish your home

Are you interested in refreshing the styling of your home? Or perhaps you have recently completed your home renovation and do not know where to start with the interior styling. Well look no further because here is a concisely curated list of the top picks for interiors and homeware retail brands to shop from (not in any particular order).

Photo credit: Next.com website

Next

Next is the traditional high street chain whose homeware line sports some of the highest quality furnishings that are designed to elevate any room. Next prides themselves on providing essential living options to their customers which makes them a top choice for home styling.

Dunelm

Dunelm is one of the largest homeware online stores. They are primarily known for their affordable designer replicas and soft homewares. If you’ve got a knack for searching for alternatives to the designer statement pieces then Dunelm is the brand for you. Dunelm’s wide range of soft furnishings and accessories makes it seamless to find your preferred items at the desired price.

H&M home

When it comes to H&M home, think fashionable but on a budget. H&M dawns the most stylish homeware goods that are hot and trending in the interiors realm. This is the homeware store for you if you want to stay on top of the latest interior design trends. However, due to the affordable price tag and trending choices you might notice a few pieces in most modern homes.

Photo credit: JohnLewis.com website

John Lewis

John Lewis is a long running and dependable brand for homeware goods. In more recent years, the department store has been able to cater to a broad range of styles with products ranging from coffee machines to throws. Due to their array of design pieces, you’ll be certain to find items that will match your style.

Ikea

Ikea is most known for their simplistic and functional homeware products. The brands resonates with homeowners who are decorating on a budget and typically doing it themselves. The majority of Ikea homeware items are designed to be assembled at home.

Photo credit: Dusk.com website

Dusk

Dusk is an elegant and fairly new brand that positions itself as the ‘luxury for less’ homeware option. Their elegant and stylish homeware products have been designed for everyday shoppers that want attainable luxuries in their home.

Wayfair

Wayfair is the gigantic furniture marketplace, allowing buyers to shop multiple retailers all in one place. Given the large platform hosts both big and small furniture brands, you’ll be sure to find items to match any style choices or preferences.

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Meet Nadine Bacchus: The renovations and home interiors influencer helping creators boss their taxes

Photo Credit: Nadine Bacchus instagram

The rise of content creators from all industries has taken the world by storm. The renovations and interiors sub industry is home to many inspiring creators, one such creative has caught the attention of tens of thousands of renovation and home interiors enthusiasts - Nadine Bacchus.

Originally renovating her Victorian terraced house in south London during the 2020 pandemic under the pseudonym rona_renovation, Nadine has been able to turn her home renovation project into her full time business through her unique voice and pioneering renovation and interiors content.

On 4th January 2024, Nadine held an event called ‘Creators Can: Boss their taxes’ and we caught up with her to find out a little more detail behind the event:

Nadine Bacchus (right) and Aurelia (left) pictured at the ‘Creators Can: Boss their taxes’ event.

CM: For those who don’t know, tell the readership a little bit about yourself?

Nadine: I'm a 33 year old south London girl living with my fiancé. We got onto the property ladder right at the beginning of lockdown, and what followed was a crazy pandemic renovation which I captured on the 'gram. People seemed to like it, and the rest is history. Been documenting our crazy renovation and my silly little life ever since! 

CM: What is ‘Creators Can: Boss their taxes’ and how did the idea come about?

Nadine: I've spent the majority of my career in PR, so have loads of event experience which I've been wanting to put to good use! There are actually already quite a few nice influencer / panel events out there, but the problem is that the free ones are either very 'industry' (guest list only vibes, you need to 'know' someone) OR rolled into a weekend conference/festival where tickets are upwards of £50. I knew I wanted to create a free event series to not only reach the 'cool kids' but literally anyone in the creative field who could do with some encouragement, some advice and some community. It was my accountant and good friend Aurelia who came up with the idea of launching the series on the topic taxes, because in her experience this is something she sees brilliant creative clients struggle with. It's not the most exciting topic, but it is a crucial part of being self-employed and we knew we could make fun!

Photo Credit: Nadine Bacchus instagram

CM: What has been the most difficult aspect of taxes as a renovations and home interiors creator?

Nadine: The problem that most creators have when it comes to taxes, is that they've essentially stumbled into a new career with no real plan. Most people start sharing content because it's fun, or like me they want to document a particular area of their lives. With that, your audience can grow quickly and then brand opportunities - extra income - follow.  That first tax return literally sneaks up on you because your mindset is not the same as someone who has started an ecommerce business or opened a small shop for example. Those people see themselves as business owners, but creators tend to see themselves differently so it's getting the mindset correct which is the biggest challenge.

CM: What advice would you give to the next generation of renovation and home interiors creators when it comes to taxes?

Nadine: You are a business. You are a business person. The influencer marketing industry is worth billions, and on some level you are part of that. Whether you're earning casually here and there, or have plans to go full time - HMRC see that hustle as extra taxable income! The sooner you empower yourself to view yourself as a serious business, the more empowered and engaged with your accounts you'll be.

CM: What are your future plans for the ‘Creators Can’ events? Are there more on the horizon?

Nadine: We would LOVE to do future events. I'll likely put a poll out to my audience about what topics they'd like to cover so watch this space!!

CM: Bonus question: What’s something in your home that you can’t live without?

Nadine: My coffee machine. If I could pack it in my suitcase and take it on holiday I would!!

Follow Nadine Bacchus on instagram @nads_bacchus for more renovations and home interiors content.

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4 Modern Design Ideas to Improve the Functionality of Your Small Kitchen

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Small kitchens can be difficult to design. However the limited space offers great opportunities to get creative with your style choices whilst still keeping up with modern day trends.

What a small kitchen lacks in space, it can still make up for in optimised functionality with the right design choices. Here are four modern design ideas that will improve the workflow of your small kitchen space:

Pull down shelf baskets in wall cabinets

Photo Credit: goldeneye.designer on TikTok

It’s difficult and inconvenient to get items from wall cabinets especially if you’re below average height and need to get that can of tuna from the top shelf. Having pull down shelf baskets in your wall cabinets offers an easy solution that does not negatively impact the use of your wall cabinets.

Platform base instead of kick board

Kick boards can easily become detached and they can make a lovely home for creepy crawlies and other unwanted creatures. Instead, create a platform with bricks and tiles for the base units to stand on instead. This creates a sturdier base that will not house unwanted guests.

Diamond shaped cabinets instead of right angled

Right angled cabinets on the left transformed into diamond shaped cabinets on the right. Photo Credit: goldeneye.designer on TikTok

Photo Credit: goldeneye.designer on TikTok

Kitchens with right angled cupboards and countertops have less storage. Their old fashioned style can make access inconvenient. Instead, make diamond shaped cupboards which provide better storage for large and dry goods. This choice will create more countertop space.

Customised shelves between small gaps

Photo Credit: goldeneye.designer on TikTok

Small kitchens are notorious for small and awkward gaps between counters and appliances. Adjoin appliances to counters where there are gaps, and fill the spaces with customised shelves that can contain small kitchen items such as spices and sauce jars. This makes it convenient to access small items whilst also not taking up larger storage spaces.

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The next generation of renovators: 4 inspiring renovators of 2023

Undertaking your first renovation or maybe your second can be an exhilarating experience. The property development and home renovation landscape has changed dramatically over the years. Gone are the days where renovating a home was for the obscenely rich and older age groups. Now we see more and more Gen z and Millenials take on their own renovation projects, both big and small.

Left to Right: Tolu & Deji of @Renoandvibes, Monalisa Quaidoo of @_homewithmo, Naomi of @movingouttheends, Zainab Olaleye of @Zeeshome_. Photo Credit: Instagram, Illustration: Casa by Marie

2024 is expected to be an exciting year for the next generation of renovators with a host of new development projects on the horizon. With that said, we have taken a look at some inspiring renovators and the projects that they have kicked off or completed in 2023.

Photo Credit: _homewithmo instagram

_homewithmo

Monalisa Quaidoo has been renovating her home for a number of years. She focuses on DIY, hacks and interiors. She and her partner Justin renovated their small bathroom in a single weekend. They were expert planners, buying all the materials ahead of time and ensuring they had all the appropriate tradesman lined up. They perfectly organised for the tile cutting to be conducted outside of the bathroom whilst the plumming was being done, in order to complete the project in 72 hours. Talk about multitasking.

movingouttheends

Naomi, who renovates under the pseudonym ‘movingouttheends’, has purchased a home for the second time. For her second home purchase, she opted for a renovation project, completely overhauling the 3 bedroom house. She added a single storey extension for a kitchen/diner and she plans to convert the existing kitchen into a study, small utility room and a downstairs toilet. Naomi’s design skills are equally impressive and we can not wait to see the finished project.

The newly renovated kitchen with extension. Photo credit: movingouttheends instagram

Credit: movingouttheends instagram

Renoandvibes

Tolu and Deji, also known as Reno and Vibes, have been disrupting the renovation space for the last couple of years. They purchased their first home in 2021 and immediately began renovating. In 2023, they purchased a second as an investment property and they have been doing a complete overhaul. They stripped out the windows and they have recently completely renovated the roof to give a fresh modern look. “It’s tough” they shared on their Instagram.

Photo credit: renoandvibes instagram, illustration: Casa by Marie

Zeeshome_

Zainab Olaleye bought her first house in 2021 and began slowly renovating it over the years. Her recent project on the house was the bathroom renovation. She took on the dreaded task of ripping out her old bathroom, laying down the tiles, grouting and applying the caulk herself. She may have broken her first tile during the project but persevered until the end.

Photo credit: zeeshome_ instagram, Photo illustration: Casa by Marie

Follow these rising renovators on instagram.

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Here’s why buying a new build may not be worth it

Many prospective buyer’s believe that buying a new build is the safer bet than an old home given its newly decorated structure. Whilst the rational for that view may hold some merit, there are still some clear indicators for why buying a new build may not be the best option.

For some, buying a new build is the only way onto the property given the number of schemes available to help first time buyer’s including help to buy equity loans. However, it would be best to consider the drawbacks of buying a newly built property:

Poor construction quality

Whilst new build homes have to meet the latest buildings and regulation standards, the construction quality of a vast majority of new builds remains inadequate. From unfinished fittings to faults with utilities and wiring, it could be argued that new builds have not been built to last and instead built like toys on a factory assembly line.

Delays in completion

Expect the unexpected but not when it comes to new builds. New builds are notorious for their delays in completion which typically comes down to delays in the construction work by the developers. These delays can seriously derail the lives of an individual.

Lack historical significance and character

Whilst a home with a story or with any sort of significant character is not always top of every buyer’s list but if you are the kind of buyer that is looking for a home with features, a new build may not be the way to go. Additionally, since new builds are typically built on empty plots of land it may take some time to feel part of a community.

Over priced

Given the convenience of being new and without any previous owners, new builds typically bring in an increased premium when buying. Additionally, with the marked up price, new build homes typically depreciate more easily and quickly, leaving buyers in negative equity almost immediately. 

Higher interest rates

Mortgage lenders are typically stricter with their lending criteria for new builds. New builds do not come with any historical data, therefore making it more difficult to underwrite and consequently making them more risky for banks. The increased risk is ultimately offset by the higher interest rate.

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Do fully tiled bathrooms look cold and clinical?

Photo credit: Unsplash

Designing a bathroom is a highly complicated task, particularly around choosing the right materials that offer the perfect intersection between practicality and style. The most common design style for bathrooms is the use of tiles given they offer the walls and floors protection from water damage and also create a seamless wet room aesthetic if completely tiled.

Interior design is largely a personal choice, so the extent at which to tile a bathroom will ultimately come down to the individual. There are a number of opinions on the look of half tiled bathrooms vs fully tiled bathrooms but some interior designers believe that fully tiled bathrooms can look “cold and clinical”.

Interior Designer Abigail Beddow. Photo Credit: @thebeddowspace instagram

Interior designer Abigail Beddow, who specialises in attainable luxury decor choices, and runs the interior design studio, theab_interiors, had some thoughts to share. Abigail agrees “yes [all tiled] does look cold and can look clinical”.

Some interior designers believe that the all tiled look can give off an inexpensive taste that does not look particularly stylish. Whilst that can be disheartening, it is not all doom and gloom for the all tiled bathroom style because “there are ways to suppress [it]” Abigail challenges.

Abigail shares her advice on how to revitalise the cold and clinical look by adding “some warmth using texture, perhaps a rug or a wooden vanity unit”. She also adds “you can also have one wall or partial [wall] with no tiling where you can paint and add another warm colour that would subdue the environment”.

Whether you are looking for a luxury bathroom look or have concerns around an all tiled bathroom, Abigail co-signs that “many luxurious bathrooms have [the all tiled] design”.

Ultimately, styling preferences are always going to have different opinions and whether your personal style suits an all tiled bathroom or not is down to personal choice.

Visit www.theabigailcreatives.com for interior design and styling services. Follow Abigail Beddow on Instagram @thebeddowspace for more interior styling tips.

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3 habits that will get you closer to buying your first home

Homeownership is considered one of the best asset classes to build wealth and stabilise your financial future. It is also considered one of the most difficult. A combination of rising student loan debt, incompatible wage growth, rising house prices and interest rates has contributed to that difficulty.

However, in spite of this, building some consistent habits can make homeownership much more attainable. If buying a home is the goal then the following three habits are crucial to maintain.

Compromise

The ability to compromise during the buying process is important. There is no such thing as a perfect house so being able to compromise on the features that are negotiable will get you one step closer to securing your first home.

First time buyers have a habit of getting caught up in decision paralysis which leads to not making a decision at all. Consequently, missing out on a home that may not be perfect but would still meet their needs.

Discipline

When buying your first home, the ability to train yourself to work towards a goal and stay consistent is particularly critical. Having discipline can come in many forms when working towards buying your first home - saving for a home deposit, sticking to your buying timelines and working hard to evidence your ability to maintain timely payments long term will be important.

Being disciplined will ultimately enable lenders to believe you are a credible person to lend money to over the long term. The more disciplined, the more credible and the better rates and loans you will have access to.

Networking

Ever heard the saying, “your network is your net worth”? Essentially, keeping relationships with the right kinds of people can determine your net worth. Well this rings true for buying a home too. Networking with estate agents and not simply browsing on right move can be more beneficial. Building and maintaining relationships with estate agents can be beneficial as they often contact buyers with off market deals if they have a pre existing relationship and trust that you are a legitimate buyer.

Equally, do not underestimate those within your network that may not be in real estate as they may know someone who wants to sell off platform. The moral of the story; make it known to anyone and everyone that you’re looking to buy and you may be surprised at who steps forward.

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2024 Property Market Predictions: The Return of a Buyer’s Market

It’s not everyday that you hear this is the year to buy a property. With the surge of 2023 interest rates, buying in the current market had never felt more out of reach. However, there may be light at the end of the tunnel. According to the telegraph, 2024 is predicted to be a year that we will be entering into a buyers market with more choice and less pressure on housing.

Rightmove representative Tim Bannister also added, “it is an easier market for buyers in prime areas”. With that said, here are our predictions for what’s in store for the property market in 2024:

Mortgage rates hit their peak in 2023 and started to dip at the tail end of the year. Banks began a slasher-thon, cutting rates in a bid to undercut one and other and win business.  For 2024 we expect this trend to continue and mortgage rates to continue to fall. Though we may not see 1-2% rates like 2020 levels, we expect rates to steadily sit at 3-4%.

It’s likely that house prices will also begin to slowly dip in 2024. It is unlikely that there will be any drastic market crashes that mirror the 2008 financial crisis but being able to knock off a few thousand pounds on the asking price will become more achievable as sellers have less choice.

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Renovation Personality Types: Find out which type you fit into

Restoring homes to a good state of repair is not for everyone. There’s a reason for that. It all comes down to a person’s attitude towards renovation projects which can be determined by three categories; where they decide to stay during the renovation, their budget and how much they enjoy DIY.

These three criteria combined have enabled us to determine the different renovation personality types most renovators fall into:

1. The Autonomist

The hands off renovator will be fairly passive in their renovation project. They will opt to give minimal direction to those involved and maximum freedom for decision making on their behalf. These renovators typically have a wealth of resources and limited time which prohibits them from being in the day to day of the project.

2. The Moderator

The moderator doesn’t live in the property and pays someone else to do the work entirely. They’re still updated in the day to day management and occasionally do site visits but wouldn’t be caught dead with a hammer or paint brush in their hand. They are only interested in timely updates from whomever they have delegated the management of the project. These renovators may be quite well off and connected, busy and possibly even have a family of their own to prioritise.

3. The Novice

They don’t typically live in the property but they are doing it themselves. This renovator probably has quite a bit of money and can afford to stay elsewhere or has a network to stay with. They are embarking on their first renovation project and want to understand the ins and outs or renovating a home. They also enjoy handy work and don’t mind getting themselves dirty, treating the project like they’re showing up for work each day.

4. The Economist

The Economist are the opposite to The Novice. This renovator lives in the property and but has outsourced the work to a third party. They want to economise the outputs of those doing the work and potentially maximise the money they are putting in. These types of renovators typically live frugally and save where they can.

5. The Labourer

The Labourer is akin to Jack from The Notebook. They live in the property and do all the restoration themselves. They’re almost a perfectionist and want to contribute to every aspect of the project. They have a clear vision for how they want the renovation to turn out and do not trust others to fulfil the goal. They’re also an expert in construction work, perhaps previously working as a builder.

6. The Discipliner

The final personality is The Discipliner. They live in the property and do the vast majority of the work themselves but unlike the labourer they are able to outsource odd jobs that they may not want to do to other tradesman. They remain disciplined in undertaking work at their own speed but know their limitations.

Did any of these personalities sound like you? If so, find out your renovation personality type here.

Note: Initial concept derived from @renoandvibes

The benefits of undertaking a home renovation project

Have you ever wondered if embarking on a home renovation project is worth the effort? Whether you are a first time buyer looking to purchase a fixer upper or a current homeowner that wants to make some substantial changes to your home, a renovation project can offer many benefits.

If you have the funds and a knack for planning and organising, we have compiled a list of benefits to consider before kicking off your renovation project:

It’s an opportunity to correct safety issues

Depending on how long you’ve lived in your home and whether you’ve purchased a house that was already in a poor state of repair, a renovation project gives the opportunity to correct any existing shoddy work and bring your home back up to modern building safety regulations. That plug socket that was a bit too close to the cooker can be corrected during a renovation.

Improve your home’s energy efficiency

A home’s energy efficiency can be critical. A substantial amount of homes energy efficient rating are below standard due to changing regulations and evolving technologies. Upgrading the insulation, installing new bay windows or even swapping out that old rattling boiler can improve your rating during a renovation. Remember, a better energy efficiency will lower the overall household energy bills.

Improve functionality and add additional space

Depending on the type of renovation project that you decide to undertake, putting your home under construction can improve the functionality of a home or create more space. As an example, a lot of dated homes have gallery kitchens which can be quite functionality inefficient. A renovation project can give the opportunity to knock through some walls and create more space. Or even converting the empty loft into an additional bedroom.

Modernise a home

It’s no secret that modern homes are more attractive. A modern home also improves your personal space and allows you to customise the home to your standard and needs. Having a home that you are truly comfortable in provides greater health benefits and life longevity.

Increase value

Depending on your objective after the renovation, whether that is to sell or simply create a personalised space, undertaking a renovation, will in most cases, increase the value of your home. If the most cost effective style choices are made and the renovation has not exceeded the ceiling price the area then a newly modernised home could offer increased equity.

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