How to save money this summer
June 26, 2011
5 Staycation projects that won't break the bank
With the summer holidays in full swing, for many of us, the 2- week package trip may well have to be put on hold, as money worries loom larger than the next parliamentary fiasco. Instead we are experiencing the "staycation", a period of time in which an individual or family stays at home and relaxes at home or takes day trips from their home to area attractions. Interspersed with outings, we see this period as an opportunity to get on with those D IY tasks we have been putting off and have now run out of excuses not to do. When we mean DIY, we mean those tasks that can be undertaken by a relatively competent individual and not some kind of major reconstruction project.
Be aware though that spending money on home improvements will not automatically increase the value of your home. Make sure that the work you propose is in keeping with its style, is well designed and above all, for the more complex projects in particular, is properly constructed. If you intend to undertake any new build, please make sure you do not require planning or building regulation approval. There is no doubt that undertaking any home improvement work will enhance your property and hopefully when it comes to selling, give your property the edge over competing properties.
5 "staycation" projects:-
- Get in the Garden: Not only is gardening a potential health benefit but it can play a huge role when it comes to selling homes and can add significant value to your property. Did you know that research conducted by the Horticultural Traders Association has found that a well maintained front garden can add as much as £5,00 to the value of your property? The secret is making the best of the space you have available to you. For example, paint fences, cover manholes, trim hedges and remove weeds from borders.
- Get the Paint Brushes Out and get those windows frames and render painted: First impressions always count. By making the outside of your property look as attractive as possible can add 2-3% to the value of your home.
- Update your kitchen: Whilst advertisers will go out of their way to try and convince us we need a brand new kitchen, why bother if the carcasses are sound? The simplest and most convenient way to update your kitchen is by replacing the unit doors and their handles. If you are feeling confident, why not consider replacing the work surfaces also?
- Give those bathroom and kitchen tiles a spring clean: Ideally, replacing bathroom and kitchen tiles would be preferable. However, if new tiles are not an option, simply treat your tiles to a spring clean by investing in a bicarbonate of soda paste. Once left on for an hour, the paste will help lift the dirt and fungus that accumulates on the grout.
- Get Painting: As I can personally testify, painting is one of the best ways to freshen up your home. With painting in particular, preparation is key to its success. Do spend time filling cracks, sanding and priming. When it comes to choosing colours, it often pays to choose neutral colours. Whilst some argue that neutral is "boring", why not think about having a feature wall that is painted a different colour to the other walls? Presently, my house resembles a disorganised jumble sale with furniture piled up in the middle of rooms. I keep reminding myself that it will be worth it when we have finished decorating. A fresh look can for example add between 1-2% to the value of your property when you come to sell.
Whatever you are doing this summer, above all enjoy it!!!
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