Doing it up cheaper than moving on
B&Q has claimed that home improvement has become increasingly popular as people can not afford to move house, but still want to live in a desirable property.With property prices at all all-time high, particularly in London, and only showing slight signs of cooling, DIY is seen as a more affordable option for people looking to both increase the value of the property and create a nice living environment.Loft conversions and extensions are becoming especially popular, according to B&Q as homeowners become increasingly ambitious with their DIY projects. A spokesperson for B&Q said: "Lifestyles are changing and we are making more intensive use of our homes due to high house prices and the rising cost of moving. Loft, garage and basement conversions, extensions, conservatories and the garden being used as a living space are all becoming more popular. "Changing lifestyles require more multi-functional rooms as more of us work from home and entertain from home more often. DIY has evolved into home improvement - in fact, the home improvement market is three times the size of DIY market." Easter and the early summer months are particularly busy for the DIY chain as warmer weather drives families outside."Longer, warmer summers mean people want to spend more time in their gardens, using them as playrooms, dining rooms and lounges," he said. "Whether doing it themselves, or bringing in someone to do it for them, people are still hugely interested in home improvement and want their homes to reflect their personality and style."Homes are still people's greatest asset and this is unlikely to change. People want to get more from their homes at an affordable price; they want to do more ambitious projects," he concluded.
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