HOME EDITION
TIME TO MOVE… OR IMPROVE? As 2025 gets underway, many homeowners will be asking if it’s finally time to ‘love it or list it’. Whether you’re craving more light and space or a fresh start, Phoebe Harper asks the experts how to transform your home and add real value
anuary is the perfect time to reassess your living space – especially when those dark, chilly days have you spending more time indoors. If you’re feeling like your sanctuary is a bit cramped or could use a brightness boost, maybe it’s time for a refresh. Whether you’re dreaming of extra room to breathe or thinking ahead to a potential sale, adding some eco-friendly upgrades or renovations are an effective way to make your home not just cosier, but more valuable too. Every year, thousands of house-proud Brits undertake home renovations, from simple room transformations with a fresh lick of paint to major overhauls. A recent study from Go Compare Home Insurance found that redecoration topped the list of renovation priorities in 2024 for 47.5% of respondents, while kitchen and bathroom projects followed with a share of 23.7% and 22.7% respectively. Often the heart of the home, a kitchen remodel might involve simple updates to cabinets, countertops or appliances, but if plumbing or electrical work is required the costs can soar. While smaller projects are DIY-friendly, a full overhaul typically requires professional help. Meanwhile, bathroom renovations can range from retiling to installing a walk-in shower or additional bathroom, with the added consideration of prioritising moisture- resistant materials such as waterproof flooring and mould-resistant paint. No matter the renovation, be advised to always plan ahead. Check on planning permissions, particularly for listed buildings, and consider home insurance implications, especially for DIY projects. One local renovation success story comes from Cambridgeshire-based home and lifestyle influencer Kirstie Smith, who made some major updates to her listed Georgian house (shown right).
Though initially liveable, several updates were essential, including the addition of secondary glazing to the sash windows and a two-storey extension to create more space and better bathrooms for the family. “The actual renovation was super messy,” she says. “I’m still finding dust several months later! But it was definitely worth it. My advice would be to always make sure to keep a few rooms as normal as possible, so you can escape to a space that’s away from the chaos. On the whole, the renovation process was reasonably straightforward, with no major issues in planning, despite doing the bulk of the work during Covid.” Selling up While renovating is generally more affordable for smaller updates, costs can quickly escalate if major work is needed.
76 JANUARY 2025 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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