Home Planning For The Year Ahead…

 With house prices not expected to increase significantly this year, the number of people building their own home or renovating their existing space is set to rise.

Experts do not expect an end to the slump until 2011, so are advising homeowners to maintain and improve their homes this year in anticipation of a recovery. This is an opportunity for those who dream of building their own home, and also for those who would like to dramatically change their existing space.

If building from scratch, this is the time to find a plot, decide on design, check for planning advice and start drawing up plans. For those outgrowing their homes, this is the year to convert garages or lofts and create home offices.

For others, it is a time to look at better space planning or to renovate key areas of the house such as kitchens, living rooms and bathrooms.

Key to success is good planning and preparation, according to the Federation of Master Builders, who advise that you analyse the reasons for embarking on the project – and unlike last decade – make sure financial gain is not your only motivation.

Builders pride themselves on their ability to offer advice to potential customers on whether proposed plans are realistic and affordable.

Looking for kitchen improvement ideas? Look no further than The Essential Guide to Home Improvement.

The Essential Guide is full of real life examples of different ways you can improve your home.

Be inspired by the beautiful homes and enjoy practical tips from industry experts on a variety of building projects.

Download the Guide from www.fmb.org.uk/guide.

News Stories supplied by The Federation of Master Builders, for more information please visit www.fmb.org.uk