DIY trends 'positive for property market'

Friday, November 27th 2009

The fact that many homeowners intend to carry out DIY work on their properties in the next year could be a positive sign for the housing market, it has been suggested.

According to Homebuilding and Renovating Magazine editor Jason Orme, there is still demand for home improvements and the addition of extra bedrooms.

"It probably shows slightly renewed signs of confidence in the housing market," he remarked.

Mr Orme predicted that energy efficiency-related improvements such as the installation of insulation will be particularly popular this winter, as well as attempts to create extra space through loft conversions.

The comments came after a report from Aspect Maintenance indicated that 70 per cent of London-based homeowners are looking to make improvements to their properties in the next year.

About 14 per cent plan to sell their renovated home by the end of 2010, although 24 per cent are not looking to refurbish their properties due to financial issues.