In these times of financial uncertainty and adversity by far the best investment you can make at the moment is in the home you are in. It is costly, and stressful, to move house even when the market is buoyant so adding value to your existing home through making the right choices now is what will make the difference further down the line should you come to move on.

Planning permission laws changed on 1st October 2008 enabling many more people to maximise the size of their property or consider building works for the first time, provided they comply with the necessary rules and regulations of course. Even if you only gain consent and do not actually carry out the works (extension/conversion/excavation etc), this can increase the value and appeal of your property. The possibility of making your own stamp on a house, as well as adding value, is very appealing to savvy buyers, but it also means that you can have your dream home where you are already.

Kitchens and bathrooms are considered two of the main rooms in the home, but the feeling you get when you walk through the front door is extremely impactful, whether to you, your friends and family or a potential buyer.

The key is maintaining universal appeal. You want your home to be as large as it can be, as well laid out and as functional as it can be, and of course as stylish as it can be. Inside really does count. The decoration of your home is therefore important.

Not only can it provide you with a pleasing and relaxing environment but by selecting a colour palette that compliments your property, whilst observing current trends, you can also ensure that it will appeal to others should you decide to sell. By adding a sense of luxe to your home you offer future vendors a glimpse of an aspirational lifestyle they wont be able to resist; whilst enjoying living in your perfect space until you do decide to move.