Forget the decor - square footage was the most important thing I looked at when I was househunting. You can change the colour scheme, but you can't change the room size. That, and the location - it was absolutely vital that I was close to transport links for work, and that there was a decent local round the corner!
Lynne, Benfleet
Did you know? Truro, Cornwall is the UK's most popular moving destination, with 40% more people wanting to move in than move out - read more about property hotspots
Transform your home in a day
We've put together ten quick, affordable, home improvement projects that won't take over your weekend, or hurt your bank balance. Choose a project and a day, and then enjoy the rest of your time your way.
Ten property buying tips
- Research the area you want to buy in e.g. crime rates
- Research the local property market
- List what you really want in a property and what you can compromise on
- Search online for properties
- Factor all the additional buying costs into your budget
- Don't view too many properties in one day
- When viewing, know the warning signs to look for e.g. damp
- Don't be afraid to bid less than the asking price
- Shop around for your mortgage
- Have the property surveyed
In your own words…
Create a personal style that makes you happy and means something to you. Make fashion, don’t follow it. Re-create a mood or style you have seen at, for example, a historic house.
Angie, North Somerset
How to increase the value of your home
Home services
- Credit check
See what lenders see before you apply for a mortgage or credit - Energy
Save up to £325 on your bills by switching suppliers - Broadband
Compare packages and prices for the best value deal - Home phone
Switch and save up to £140 a year on your phone bill
