Making home your own
Having bought a new home, it will be unusual if you do not want to do things to improve its amenities. Even new houses can benefit from a few special touches to personalise the property and to make it wholly yours'.
One of the first places home-owners start is the kitchen. Does it suit your lifestyle? Are there the right number and type of fittings? Is it properly ventilated? Are there sufficient lights?
The bathroom is another area where improvements may be made. The shower may be an integral part of the bath for example. How about installing a separate fixture complete with cabinet and its own water and heating source? Many bathrooms are under-supplied with heating. It would be no problem to a plumber to fit another radiator, or heated towel rail. Ventilation and lighting may need looking at.
Many bathrooms include a WC. This is fine until two people need to use the facilities at the same time. A second WC or cloakroom downstairs could be a real boon in a house full of children.
While you are considering additional radiators, it may be worth changing your heating system. Look at the alternatives and decide. You may spend more on heating than is strictly necessary.
It could be you need slightly more room in the new place. An extension might be an answer, or a loft conversion. Obtain a proper survey, however, as some loft conversions can jeopardise the integrity of the property's structure.
Many homes now have double glazing, if your new property has not, it could be worth consideration. Even if there is double glazing, thermally-insulated glass may not be part of the specification. Having it installed could make your home even more energy efficient and comfortable.
The garden is an important part of your property but British weather tends to mean it can only be enjoyed for part of the year. A conservatory would remedy this and provide valuable extra space as well. And if your conservatory opens onto a paved patio area, when the weather is fine you can actually move into the garden with total ease. And whilst on the subject of the garden, why not install some security lights? They could be an added amenity on late summer evenings but would add that essential deterrent to would-be housebreakers.
Home improvements enhance quality of living as well as the value of your home - as long as they are safely and correctly installed. Bodged amateur jobs can be dangerous and will make your property harder to sell when the time comes. Do not waste time, money or energy trying to 'do it yourself' unless you are confident in your own skills. A good local builder or tradesman employed to carry out home improvements can make all the difference.
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