Householders and first-time buyers 'should know their DIY limits'

01-Sep-2009

When it comes to decorating a house, such as a first property, people should be sure not to exceed their limitations when engaging in DIY.

Many homeowners, including first-time buyers, may choose the bank holiday weekend to give their property a facelift, which has caused one expert to offer some advice.

Fiona Hodge, assistant editor at DIY Week, explained people should only undertake work if they are experienced in household repairs or improvements.

She said: "Over the bank holidays there is a rise in accidents where people don't quite know what they are taking on.

"Know your limits and make sure you are prepared for the job you are doing."

Ms Hodge went on to say people could make savings by shopping around and picking up own-label supermarket goods, which can often offer good value for money.

This may appeal to first-time buyers, particularly during the recession.

According to the Halifax Home Improvement Survey, the average house extension costs £19,922 - but could potentially add £25,590 to the value of a property.

FirstRungNow.com - how to buy a house, from finding your first flat or first house, first time buyer mortgages, shared ownership, buying with friends, gifted deposit, part buy part rent - all a first time buyer could possibly need.

Property market recovery 'will be slow'
First-time buyers 'should talk to mortgage advisors'
'More confidence' in housing market over next few months

2012: Feb | Jan

2011: Dec | Nov | Oct | Sep | Aug | Jul | Jun | May | Apr | Mar | Feb | Jan

2010: Dec | Nov | Oct | Sep | Aug | Jul | Jun | May | Apr | Mar | Feb | Jan

2009: Dec | Nov | Oct | Sep | Aug | Jul | Jun | May | Apr | Mar | Feb | Jan

2008: Dec | Nov | Oct | Sep | Aug | Jul | Jun | May | Apr | Mar | Feb | Jan

2007: Dec | Nov | Oct | Sep | Aug | Jul | Jun | May | Apr | Mar | Feb | Jan

2006: Dec | Nov | Oct | Sep | Aug | Jul | Jun | May | Apr | Mar | Feb | Jan

2005: Dec | Nov | Oct | Sep | Aug | Jul | Jun | May | Apr | Mar