May 2009

'More convenient to extend current home than move'
Andrew Leech, the director of the National Home Improvement Council, has said it is cheaper and more convenient to extend a property than move to a new house.

More to property than making money
Renowned designer Wayne Hemingway claims people should see their homes as more than just a way to make money.

Homeowners concerned over costs of 'going green'
New research has found that homeowners in the UK are not installing some energy efficient measures due to the costs involved.

Glasgow homes get double glazing installed
Over 400 homes in Glasgow have had double glazing installed as part of a new £1.5 million scheme.

'Time to come back to the property market'
Real estate firm Savills claims people who left the property market could now be considering getting back in and purchasing homes.

Loft conversion 'adds most value to a property'
Research by HSBC has found that a loft conversion is the best home improvement method for adding value to a property.

Simple improvements to raise sale value of a home
A new study of property experts and homeowners has revealed the home improvements which can add value to a property.

Low carbon zones pledge for London
Boris Johnson has revealed plans for ten specific low carbon zones in London.

'Stagnant property market creating uncertainty'
Buyers and sellers are currently both uncertain about the state of the housing market, according to online property website Briffy.com.

Homeowners 'warned of DIY home security'
Direct Line has urged property owners to fit their homes with proper security equipment rather than using homemade measures.

Smart meter roll-out confirmed
The government has confirmed plans to roll out smart meters to all homes across UK by 2020.

Home improvements for Manchester homes
Some 40,000 properties are set to have new double glazing or UPVC doors under a new scheme by Eastlands Homes.

Double glazing boost for village hall
A village hall in Gloucestershire has received a boost after getting funding for major refurbishment work.

Property sales 'remain low'
The number of house sales taking place across the UK remains low, according to the latest figures.

Over half of Brits 'not looking to move'
New research has revealed that over 50 per cent of Brits do not intend to move house in the near future.

Carbon Calculator launched for homeowners
People who are thinking about investing in double glazing for their home can now work out their potential savings using an online tool.

Tenants 'looking for efficient homes'
New research has revealed that tenants consider the energy efficiency of properties they consider renting.

Steel 'the little black dress of the kitchen'
An expert has claimed that stainless steel provides an ideal finishing touch to a new kitchen.

Windows 'can create a welcoming atmosphere'
An expert has claimed that windows can define the mood or style of a home.

'Plan needed' for housing upgrade
The government needs to put a plan in place to support its efforts to improve the efficiency of all homes in the UK, the Federation of Master Builders has claimed.

Conservatories to be more efficient?
Homeowners may have to make their conservatories more energy efficient under new government plans.

Businesses offered efficiency loans
Companies across Tyneside could get money off energy efficient measures under a new scheme.

Conservatory case highlights planning issue
A case in Seaton has highlighted the importance of seeking planning permission for conservatories.

Countryside home extensions 'should be controlled'
People who live in the country should think carefully before extending their homes, it has been suggested.

Lack of planning permission 'could harm property's price'
Recent events in Birmingham have suggested that people who extend their homes without planning permission could struggle to sell the properties.

Brits 'optimistic' over property value
New research has revealed that Brits often over-estimate the value of their homes.

Calls for home improvement rate cut
Small businesses in the UK are calling for the government to cut the level of VAT charged on home improvements and renovations.

Half of Brits 'lack home improvement skills'
Over half of Brits do not have basic DIY skills, according to new figures from the Energy Saving Trust.

VAT cut on renovations 'would rule out cowboys'
Reducing the rate of VAT paid on home improvements would stop people from falling into the hands of cowboy builders, it has been claimed.

Nearly 40% 'planning to improve homes'
The number of people looking for quotes on products including double glazing could rise as research predicts 40 per cent of Brits are looking to improve their homes.

Home improvements 'popular with Brits'
Over half of property owners in the UK have carried out home improvement work in the past year, according to new figures.

Window manufacturer unveils new designs
Conservatory Outlet has launched a new range of UPVC sash windows designed to replace traditional timber alternatives.

Yorkshire residents to learn about home security
Police in West Yorkshire have revealed plans to raise awareness of the importance of home security in the region.

Bathrooms and kitchens 'the first places considered for renovations'
Homeowners tend to consider making changes to either their bathrooms or kitchens before any other room when planning renovations, it has been claimed.

Brits seek loans for home improvements
One in six people are acquiring loans that will fund their home improvements, it has been revealed.

People 'must accept responsibility for home security'
Homeowners must ensure they secure their windows and doors when leaving a property for any length of time, according to an expert.

Research highlights eco-friendly towns
A new study has highlighted which towns and cities in the UK have the most eco-friendly services.

Home security highlighted by Operation Protect
The importance of home security is being highlighted by police in Worcester as part of a major operation.