BUYING JUST ONE THING

Like any big project, it’s best to see your preferred builder’s work beforehand and get an idea of what previous customers’ experiences have been. Fortunately, these days just going online can usually throw up useful reviews and sites like Mybuilder.com can give a good overview of local builders.

The same care in choice applies to new WINDOWS. We take the effects of doubleglazing for granted these days but now that we are so conscious of our energy bills having good, double-glazed windows makes real sense.

MAKING a house into a home in 2023 has become more complicated financially thanks to higher interest rates, soaring energy costs and general inflation.

We may have had to put major improvement plans on hold until the situation looks more positive but it’s still possible to improve your lifestyle on a budget right now.

So, the key this year may be to opt for just one change that will make your home-life more enjoyable, comfortable and simply better.

Since lockdown, we have all spent more time at home and our lives are definitely more involved with our property than ever. We socialize more there, spend more family time there and enjoy more home-based activities.

So, we deserve to have the best surroundings we can afford. Whether this year that means a big project or just a small change, it’s a great time to invest in your lifestyle.

Big projects can include an EXTENSION OR CONSERVATORY to give you more much-needed space and which can be as big or small as you feel financially able.

The good news is that conservatories and extensions fall under the same building rules and are classed as permitted developments.

This means that most of them will not need planning permission but this is subject to some specific rules so it’s best to check with your local planning authority first.

Dougle-glazed windows come in all shapes and sizes and not only make your home more energy efficient but also add to the value of your property. New frames also look much smarter than old, decaying frames to give your home a real face-lift.

Another big project that can really alter your home is new FLOORING throughout. This can be new carpets or you may prefer floor tiles or wooden flooring.

Experts say the trend for carpets in 2023 is for bright colours and bold patterns, checked carpets and gold shades. Woodgrain remains a contemporary favourite but any real change will brighten up your home.

If your KITCHEN is in need of updating it’s definitely worth investing in new units. Modern kitchens tend to be minimalist and clutter-free so go for simple, clean looks that fit your lifestyle.

Monochrome colour schemes with large windows to allow plenty of natural light form a main kitchen image currently but a local kitchen expert can help you make the most of what space you have available.

A way to cut costs, however, is to just opt for new unit doors or worktops in a useful makeover. There are plenty of firms around offering this kind of new kitchen look. Again, checking out previous reviews will help you make the best choice.

A new FRIDGE OR FREEZER is a more modest buy that can really alter how your kitchen style and storage. Big American fridges fulfill both functions and can add a special cachet to a kitchen. Shop around online and in-store for the best bargains.

For the LIVING ROOM, investing in a new SOFA and/or COMFY CHAIRS is an expense you can justify every time you sit watching the TV or have a cosy evening in with your partner or friends.