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First-Time Buyers Buying your first home is exciting but it can also be overwhelming. From confusing jargon to unexpected costs, it’s easy to slip up. Here are five of the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make and how you  can avoid them. 1. Not budgeting enough The mistake:  You’ve saved up for your deposit… but have you budgeted for everything else? The reality:  Buying a property involves more than just the purchase price. First-time buyers often forget about: Solicitor fees Surveyor costs Mortgage arrangement and valuation fees Removal costs Stamp Duty (if applicable) How to avoid it:  Create a full buying budget before you start house hunting. Speak to a mortgage broker and solicitor early to get estimates, and always keep a buffer for unexpected costs. 2. Not Checking the Title Register After Completion The mistake:  You assume once the keys are in your hand, the legal side is done. The reality:  After completion, you should always check the Land Registry Title Register to make sure the property is legally registered in your name. It’s the final confirmation of ownership — and mistakes do happen. You would be surprised how many PI claims there are because of this. How to avoid it:  Ask your solicitor to send you a copy of the updated Title Register once registration is complete. You can also check it yourself online via the Land Registry website (£3 cost). 3. Not getting a Deed of Trust made up when purchasing with a partner The mistake:  You’re buying with a partner and assume “what’s mine is yours.” The reality:  If you're contributing unequal deposits or covering different parts of the mortgage, it’s wise to protect your investment with a Deed of Trust. This legal document sets out who owns what share and what happens if you break up or sell. Take the emotional side out of this, this is a transaction and getting a Deed of Trust made up, is sensible and practical. How to avoid it:  Get legal advice and have a Deed of Trust drawn up alongside your purchase. It avoids awkward and expensive disputes later. 4. Not Understanding Property Ownership Types as a First-Time Buyer The mistake:  You see a nice flat… but don’t realise what “leasehold” really means. The reality:  The UK has different types of ownership: Freehold  – You own the property and land outright. Leasehold  – You own the property but not the land, and usually pay ground rent and service charges. Share of Freehold  – You jointly own the freehold with others (often in a flat). Shared Ownership  – You own a portion and rent the rest from a housing association. How to avoid it:  Learn what each type means and what your responsibilities will be. This affects your long-term costs and how easy it is to sell later. 5. Ignoring the Terms of the Lease The mistake:  You buy a leasehold property and just leave reading the lease up to your solicitor. The reality:  The lease sets out what you can and can’t do in your home. It may restrict things like subletting, pets, or even renovations — and it will outline: Remaining lease length Ground rent Service charges Who’s responsible for repairs It's super important to understand the terms of your lease and how much the service charge will be each year, as well as any hidden costs. How to avoid it:  Always get your solicitor to review the lease thoroughly — and make sure you understand it too. A short lease or unreasonable terms can make your property harder to sell later. Buying your first home should feel empowering and not overwhelming. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you’ll be better prepared, better protected, and better informed. Have a question about the process? Drop us a message or explore more guides on the PropBubble blog.

Buying a property is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make but that doesn’t mean you have to spend more than necessary. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just looking to stretch your budget further, these five money-saving tips can help you cut costs without cutting corners. Money Saving Tips 1. Get a Mortgage in Principle Before You Start House Hunting Why it saves you money : A mortgage in principle gives you a clear idea of what you can borrow and shows sellers you're a serious buyer. This can give you more bargaining power when negotiating the price. How to do it: Speak to a mortgage broker or lender early on. They’ll assess your income, expenses, and credit score to provide a certificate showing how much you could borrow. It’s usually valid for 60–90 days and doesn't commit you to anything. Bonus tip:  Shopping around with a whole-of-market mortgage broker can help you find the best deal even 0.1% lower interest could save you thousands over the loan term. 2. Look Beyond the Asking Price and save money Why it saves you money: Many buyers focus on the purchase price, but the real costs of buying a home include stamp duty, solicitor fees, surveyor fees, mortgage fees, and moving costs. How to do it: Create a full breakdown of all expenses, including: Stamp Duty (use an online calculator) Legal and conveyancing fees Survey (basic, homebuyer or full structural) Mortgage arrangement and valuation fees Removal or storage costs Bonus tip:  Some new-build developers or sellers offer incentives such as paying your legal fees or covering Stamp Duty, don’t be afraid to negotiate. 3. Use a Fee-Free Mortgage Broker Why it saves you money: Some mortgage brokers charge hundreds of pounds in fees but many offer the same service for free and are paid by the lender instead. How to do it: Search for “fee-free mortgage broker UK” and read reviews. Ensure they’re whole-of-market and FCA regulated. They’ll compare lenders on your behalf and help with paperwork without eating into your budget. 4. Choose the Right Survey for the Property Why it saves you money: A proper property survey can help you spot hidden issues like damp, subsidence, or roof problems before it’s too late. Fixing these after you buy can cost thousands. How to do it: For newer homes: A HomeBuyer Report is usually sufficient. For older or unusual homes: Go for a Full Structural Survey (also called a Building Survey). Bonus tip:  If serious issues come up in the survey, you can renegotiate the purchase price or walk away before wasting money. 5. Don’t Overstretch Your Budget Why it saves you money: It’s tempting to max out your mortgage offer to get the “perfect” home but this can lead to financial stress and limit your future flexibility. How to do it: Buy a home that fits your lifestyle and your budget. Remember: you'll need money left for furnishing, repairs, and emergencies. Lenders may approve more than you’re comfortable paying — but you’re the one who has to live with the repayments. You don't want to fall into depression because you have over stretched your budget and can't afford your hobbies anymore. Bonus tip:  A slightly cheaper property in a growing area could give you better long-term value than stretching for a bigger home now. You don't need to find your forever home right now. Saving money when buying a home isn't just about getting a good deal it's about making smart, informed decisions every step of the way. By being proactive and asking the right questions, you can avoid costly mistakes and make your money go further. For more first-time buyer tips, check out our latest articles.

Renovation insurance is a specialist policy designed to protect a property while building, structural, or refurbishment works are underway. Renovation Insurance provides different cover from a Home Insurance policy where the latter will restrict cover on properties undergoing work which could mean you’re actually ‘off risk’, whereas a renovation policy is there to ensure that there are no gaps in cover and that you have comprehensive protection whilst works are being done to the property. Renovation Insurance A comprehensive renovation insurance policy typically includes: Comprehensive Building Protection : Protection against damage to the existing structure and the new works being undertaken. Home and unoccupied buildings insurance will restrict / exclude cover to the building when the property is undergoing work – which is why a renovation insurance policy is needed because it offers all-risks protection. Contract Works : Works that are being done including unfixed materials and materials that are being directly purchased by the client. All-risks protection:  Provides cover for all physical loss and damage including but not limited to the following perils, theft of materials, tools, and equipment from the site, as well as malicious damage, fire, flood, escape of water, storm, accidental damage and subsidence. Optional covers:  Contents, own plant, hired in plant, advanced loss of rent, non-negligence liability, terrorism and increased public liability Public liability insurance : Covers injury or damage claims made by third parties, such as neighbours or passers-by, resulting from the renovation works. Non-negligence insurance (optional) : Covers unforeseen damage to neighbouring properties caused by your renovation works, even if no party is found negligent. Some policies can also extend to cover delays in completion, unoccupied property periods, and temporary site accommodation. Why Is Renovation Insurance Beneficial? 1. Protection Beyond Standard Home Insurance: Most standard home insurance policies become void if major works are carried out without informing the insurer. Renovation insurance bridges this gap, offering dedicated protection throughout the project. 2. Safeguarding Your Investment: Renovations are often costly. Should anything go wrong – such as any of the perils mentioned above – the financial repercussions could be significant. Renovation insurance ensures you are not left out of pocket. 3. Compliance with Lenders and Contractors: If you have a mortgage on the property, your lender may require proof of appropriate renovation insurance before work begins. Many professional contractors will also expect the project to have suitable cover in place before they start. 4. Peace of Mind: Undertaking renovation work can be stressful enough without worrying about unexpected mishaps. Renovation insurance provides vital reassurance, allowing you to focus on the exciting parts of the project. Renovation insurance is a crucial safety net for anyone undertaking property works, large or small. It protects against the specific risks posed during building projects and ensures that both your investment and your future plans remain secure. Before embarking on your next renovation, make sure you have the right cover in place to build with confidence. We partner with Renovation Plan who are a specialist Renovation Insurance Broker. You can discuss your renovation plans with them and obtain a policy suitable for your needs. Building Work Insurance | Renovation, Self Build & Extension | Renovation Plan

Here is everything I learnt from attending the Investor masterclass at the National Landlord Investor Show in London . National Landlord Investment Show, London This month, I had the opportunity to attend the Investor Panel Debate at the National Landlord Investment Show. Industry specialists shared valuable insights on property investment, covering everything from market trends to risk management. Here are some of the key takeaways and expert tips you need to know. Where Are the Best Locations in the UK to Invest in Property? According to industry experts, two locations currently stand out for property investment: Derby  – High rental demand makes Derby an attractive option for buy-to-let investors. Birmingham  – If HS2 is completed, property values could see a significant uplift, making it a great long-term investment. Can You Mitigate Stamp Duty? Many investors wonder if there are ways to reduce or avoid Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT). The reality? There aren’t many ways around it. It’s a cost that must be factored into purchasing decisions. However, planning ahead and seeking expert financial advice can help you structure deals efficiently and make tax-efficient investments. Top Investment Tips from Industry Experts 1. Stick to a Strategy That Works for You Avoid chasing trends. Whether your focus is on flipping properties, buy-to-let investments, or HMOs, consistency and a clear strategy will lead to long-term success. 2. Identify Your Skill Gaps & Keep Learning Success in property investment requires continuous learning. Whether it's purchasing at auctions or title splitting, focus on what you’re good at and keep improving. Attend networking events and industry expos to build relationships and gain expert insights. 3. Get Landlord Rental Income Insurance Protecting your investment is crucial. Rental income insurance can safeguard your earnings and provide financial stability if tenants default on rent payments. 4. Focus on Opportunities, Not Just Interest Rates Interest rates may fluctuate, but great deals are always available. Savvy investors look beyond rates and focus on finding profitable opportunities in emerging markets. 5. Just Get Started! There’s never a perfect time to invest in property. The best way to learn is by taking action, gaining experience, and adapting along the way. Why You Should Attend Property Investment Shows Exhibitions like the National Landlord Investment Show provide an excellent platform to: Stay up to date with the latest market trends. Gain valuable expert insights. Network with key industry professionals. If you're serious about property investment, attending industry events and connecting with professionals can open doors to new opportunities and partnerships. The UK property market continues to evolve, and staying informed is key to making smart investment decisions. Whether you're an experienced investor or just getting started, following these expert insights will help you navigate the property landscape with confidence. Keep learning, stay consistent, and most importantly— take action ! Looking for more property investment tips? Stay tuned to PropBubble for regular updates and insights from industry professionals!

Coffee  8:00 AM – Slow Solo Morning Start Light stretch or yoga in your bedroom or living room (10 mins) Brew your favourite tea or coffee Journaling: Write 3 things you’re grateful for + 1 intention for the day Optional: Listen to a calming Spotify playlist or a short meditation 9:00 AM – Nourishing Breakfast Wholesome breakfast: avocado toast, smoothie bowl, or eggs & sourdough Read a few pages of a book or listen to a podcast while you eat 10:00 AM – Get Ready & Out the Door Light glam routine (hair, skin, comfy-chic outfit) Take a walk to your local coffee shop or grab a takeaway latte Optional: Pop into a bookshop or boutique on the way back 12:00 PM – Midday Refresh Tidy your space or water your plants Do one life admin task (e.g. book an appointment, pay a bill, reply to emails) Pasta 1:00 PM – Lunch & Light Entertainment Make lunch at home or head to a cosy café Watch a short feel-good series or vlog while you eat 2:00 PM – Creative/Me Time Work on a personal passion: journaling, painting, DIY project, content creation Or take yourself on a solo date: a museum, flower market, or the cinema 4:00 PM – Self-Care Session Run a bath or do a 3-step skincare routine Light a candle, play your favourite playlist, read a magazine or book Optional: Face mask + herbal tea   5:00 PM – Mini Home Reset 20-minute tidy: clean surfaces, fluff cushions, do dishes or laundry Light a fresh-smelling candle or diffuser Yoga 6:00 PM – Move Your Body Pilates YouTube class, home dance session, or a walk listening to a motivating podcast Freshen up with a quick shower afterwards 7:00 PM – Dinner Wind Down Cook a comforting solo dinner — make it special: lay the table, play soft music Or order something indulgent and make it a mini treat night 8:00 PM – Evening Joy Time Catch up with a friend on FaceTime or voice note Or rewatch a favourite movie with dessert or hot chocolate Optional: Paint your nails, online window shop, or plan your dream trip 9:00 PM – Digital Detox Put phone on Do Not Disturb Do a light journal entry: one good thing from today, one hope for tomorrow Sip herbal tea, dim the lights 10:00 PM – Bedtime Routine Skincare Read 10 pages or listen to a gentle podcast Lights out, ready to dream

Removing Wallpaper If you're tackling a renovation, one of the most tedious jobs can be removing old wallpaper. Whether it's outdated florals or peeling textured vinyl, removing wallpaper the right way  can save you hours of frustration — and protect your walls in the process. Here are the best tried-and-tested methods to get it done efficiently and cleanly: 🧽 1. The Old-School Soapy Water Method for Removing Wallpaper Best for:  Traditional paper wallpaper, small rooms Mix warm water with a little washing-up liquid in a spray bottle or bucket. Use a utility knife to gently score the wallpaper. Spray generously and let it soak for 10–15 minutes. Use a scraper or putty knife to lift and peel away. 💡 Top Tip:  Always protect your floors with sheets or towels to catch the soggy mess. 🌬️ 2. Use a Wallpaper Steamer Best for:  Stubborn wallpaper, large rooms, or vinyl-coated paper A steamer is your best friend when wallpaper just won’t budge. You can rent or buy one affordably. Fill the steamer with water and wait for it to heat up. Press the steaming pad against the wallpaper for 10–20 seconds. Once loosened, use a scraper to peel the paper away. 💡 Caution:  Don’t hold the steamer too long in one spot — it can damage plaster. 🧼 3. The Fabric Softener Trick Best for:  A more fragrant, DIY-friendly approach Mix equal parts warm water and fabric softener in a spray bottle. Spray it onto the wallpaper and let sit for 15 minutes. Scrape away with a putty knife. 💡 Bonus:  It smells much better than vinegar-based methods! 🛠️ 4. Dry-Stripping (If You’re Lucky) Best for:  Newer wallpapers labelled as “strippable” Use a utility knife to lift a corner and pull gently. If it peels off in full sheets, you’ve hit the jackpot. 💡 Check first:  Try a test area before committing — older wallpaper often needs more aggressive methods. Final Tips: Score first, always.  Lightly scoring wallpaper helps liquid solutions penetrate the adhesive underneath. Don’t rush.  Let your chosen solution soak in before scraping. Be patient with plaster walls.  They’re more fragile — go slowly to avoid gouging or cracking. Wash down after.  Once wallpaper is removed, wipe down the wall with warm water to remove glue residue. Removing wallpaper might not be glamorous, but doing it properly sets the foundation for a stunning renovation. Take your time — your future paint or new wallpaper will thank you.

Smart Thermostat – Google Nest Learning Thermostat Smart home gadgets aren’t just about convenience — they can boost your home’s security, energy efficiency, and even resale value. Whether you're mid-renovation or just want to modernise your space, here are five of the best smart home gadgets worth investing in right now. 1. Smart Thermostat – Google Nest Learning Thermostat Why it’s great: The Nest thermostat “learns” your habits and adjusts the heating automatically, helping to cut energy bills without you lifting a finger. You can control it remotely via your phone and even integrate it with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. Ideal for: Saving on energy bills, reducing your carbon footprint, and keeping your home cosy year-round. Price: £188.87 Google Nest 3rd Gen Wireless Heating & Hot Water Smart Thermostat Copper - Screwfix   Smart Speaker – Amazon Echo (5th Gen) 2. Smart Speaker – Amazon Echo (5th Gen) Why it’s great: This all-in-one voice assistant helps you play music, control other smart devices, set reminders, and even order groceries. It’s perfect as the central hub for your smart home. Ideal for: Hands-free control of lights, plugs, and music — especially helpful in kitchens or when multitasking. Price: £54.99 Echo Dot (Newest gen) | Big vibrant sound Wi-Fi and Bluetooth smart speaker with Alexa | Deep Sea Blue : Amazon.co.uk : Amazon Devices & Accessories Ring Video Doorbell 3. Video Doorbell – Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 Why it’s great: Get real-time alerts, talk to visitors through your phone, and view high-definition footage with a wide field of view. It’s a must-have for improving your home’s security — and it works day or night. Ideal for: Security-conscious homeowners and anyone who receives frequent packages. Price: £199.99 Wired Video Doorbell Pro – Ring Smart Lighting 4. Smart Lighting – Philips Hue Starter Kit Why it’s great: Philips Hue bulbs can be dimmed, scheduled, or colour-changed from your phone or smart speaker. You can even set different moods with custom lighting scenes — no rewiring needed. Ideal for: Setting the perfect ambiance, improving sleep routines, or boosting productivity in a home office. Price: £65.58 Philips Hue White Smart Light Bulb Starter Kit [E27 Edison Screw] 2 Pack + Smart Button. with Bluetooth. Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Homekit : Amazon.co.uk : Lighting Smart Plug 5. Smart Plug – TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug Why it’s great: Turn any appliance into a smart one. With a smart plug, you can control lamps, kettles, or even straighteners remotely — and schedule them to turn off for safety and energy efficiency. Ideal for: Anyone who forgets to turn things off before leaving the house or wants to automate everyday items. Price: £29.99 Tapo P110 (4-Pack) Smart Plug, WiFi Plug, Energy Monitoring, Electricity Usage Monitor, App Remote Control, Alexa Plug, Voice Control with Alexa & Google, Away Mode, Scheduling & Timer, Device Sharing : Amazon.co.uk : Computers & Accessories Smart home gadgets can simplify your daily routine, protect your property, and make your home feel truly modern. Whether you're starting small with a smart plug or going all-in with a connected system, these five gadgets are smart choices for any household.

Paint Review When you're refurbishing a home, paint plays a huge role in the final look and feel of your space. But not all paints are created equally — and choosing the right brand can make the difference between a flawless finish and a frustrating touch-up job. Here's how Dulux, Farrow & Ball, and Lick compare across quality, price, and practicality. Dulux – The Reliable All-Rounder Best for:  Budget-conscious renovators, rentals, high-traffic areas Pros: Widely available and affordable Easy to apply with good coverage Huge colour range, including custom mixing Tough finishes like Dulux Diamond for durability Cons: Standard lines may need extra coats for full coverage Colours can sometimes lack depth compared to premium brands Verdict:  A safe, practical choice for most refurbishments. If you're doing a large area or multiple rooms on a budget, Dulux delivers solid results without breaking the bank. Farrow & Ball – The Heritage Favourite Best for:  High-end finishes, period homes, statement rooms Pros: Rich, highly pigmented colours with unique depth Luxurious matte and estate finishes Eco-friendly, water-based formulas Stylish, curated palette loved by designers Cons: Premium price point Some users find it trickier to apply (especially Estate Emulsion) May need more frequent touch-ups in high-traffic areas Verdict:  Ideal if you’re going for a timeless, elegant look — especially in feature rooms like dining areas, bedrooms, or hallways. Farrow & Ball is a splurge, but the finish is often worth it. Lick – The Modern Minimalist Best for:  Trend-led interiors, smaller projects, social media-savvy renovators Pros: Trendy, curated colour palette Low-odour, eco-friendly paint with great opacity Comes with swatch stickers instead of messy tester pots Beautiful branding and unboxing experience Cons: Limited colour range compared to Dulux or F&B Premium pricing for a relatively new brand Less readily available in stores (mostly online) Verdict:  Lick is perfect for those who love a modern aesthetic and want a clean, contemporary finish. Great for feature walls or freshening up a flat, but maybe not the go-to for an entire house renovation. Brand Best For Price Range Coverage Colour Depth Dulux All-round value £ ✅✅✅ ✅✅ Farrow & Ball Statement finishes £££ ✅✅ ✅✅✅✅ Lick Trendy, modern spaces ££ ✅✅✅ ✅✅✅

Renovation Mistakes Renovating your home can be exciting — but it’s also a major project that can quickly spiral into stress and overspending if you don’t plan carefully. Whether you're updating a single room or overhauling your entire property, here are 8 common renovation mistakes to avoid — and how to do it right. 1. Not Setting a Realistic Budget One of the biggest traps renovators fall into is underestimating the cost. Always factor in 10–20% extra  for unexpected issues — because trust us, they will happen. Plumbing surprises, delivery delays, and last-minute design changes can all add up quickly. ✅ Tip:  Get multiple quotes and create a spreadsheet to track every expense. 2. Overcapitalising Spending £100k on a property that’s already close to your area’s ceiling price won’t guarantee you’ll get that money back. Know your local property values before investing in major works. ✅ Tip:  Research recent sales in your area. If similar homes cap at £650k and yours is worth £600k, a £100k renovation might not make financial sense. 3. Skipping Renovation Insurance Many homeowners wrongly assume their standard home insurance covers building works — but it usually doesn’t. ✅ Tip:  Always take out renovation insurance to protect against accidental damage, structural issues, and site-related risks during the project. 4. Ignoring Planning Permission You might need planning permission or building regulation approval, especially for extensions, loft conversions, or structural changes. ✅ Tip:  Always check with your local authority before starting work — and don’t rely solely on your contractor’s word. 5. Choosing the Cheapest Quote It’s tempting to go with the lowest price, but it can cost more in the long run if the quality is poor or timelines slip. ✅ Tip:  Review portfolios, ask for references, and ensure your contractor is fully insured and experienced in your type of project.  6. Changing Plans Midway Switching up designs or materials after work has started often leads to delays and added costs. ✅ Tip:  Finalise your plans and finishes before  work begins. Think long-term and avoid chasing trends that might date quickly. 7. Poor Time Planning Renovations almost always take longer than expected. Poor scheduling can leave you without a kitchen or bathroom for weeks. ✅ Tip:  Create a timeline with your contractor and include buffer time for delays. If you need to move out temporarily, plan ahead.  8. Neglecting the Little Details Overlooking things like lighting placement, plug socket locations, or door swings can impact your daily use of the space. ✅ Tip:  Walk through your plans room by room and visualise how you’ll live in the space — the small details matter more than you think. Renovating can add value, improve comfort, and make your space feel like home — but only if you approach it with the right strategy. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll save money, reduce stress, and get a result you’ll be proud of.

Renovating Checklist  1. Define Your renovating Goals What do you want to achieve? (e.g., more space, modern design, better layout) Is it for resale value or personal comfort? How long do you plan to stay in the property? 2. Set a Realistic Budget Total amount you're willing to spend Include 10–20% contingency for unexpected costs Research ceiling prices in your area to avoid overcapitalising 3. Prioritise Renovation Areas Kitchen Bathroom Flooring Lighting Structural changes (walls, extensions, loft) Cosmetic upgrades (paint, fittings, fixtures) 4. Get Planning Permission (if needed) Check with your local council if your renovation requires approval Ensure your works are compliant with building regulations 5. Renovation Insurance Renovation Insurance should be taken out before works begin Standard home insurance won’t  cover ongoing building work, accidental damage, or structural alterations See link at end of checklist 6. Choose Your Team Architect or designer (if structural) Builder/contractor Plumber/electrician Interior decorator (optional) Always get multiple quotes and check reviews or references 7. Finalise Design and Materials Pick finishes and fixtures early Order materials in advance to avoid delays Decide on layout, colour scheme, and style  8. Create a Timeline Set a realistic timeframe with milestones Include buffer time for delays Communicate regularly with your contractor 9. Prepare Your Home Clear out rooms that will be renovated Protect furniture and belongings Plan for alternative living arrangements if necessary 10. Track Progress & Costs Keep receipts and invoices Regularly review your budget Monitor the work being done to avoid surprises 11. Final Checks Request any necessary certificates (e.g., gas safety, electrics) Walk through the finished space with your contractor before final payment

Renovating Renovating your home can feel exciting — new kitchen, extended living space, better bathrooms — but before you start knocking down walls or upgrading fittings, there’s one critical question to ask: Will it actually add value to your property? Understanding the Ceiling Price Every street or neighbourhood has a “ceiling price” — the maximum amount a buyer is likely to pay for any property on that road, regardless of how stunning the interiors are. It’s usually determined by recent sales data and the general appeal of the location. Let’s say properties on your road typically sell for no more than £650,000. Your current property is valued at £600,000, and you're considering spending £100,000 on renovations. Sounds good in theory — but here’s the problem: Even with that investment, your home is unlikely to sell for £700,000. Buyers just won’t pay that much if the most comparable house on the road, maybe even bigger or better located, sold for £650k. That means you risk overcapitalising — spending more than you’ll ever get back. When to Think Twice You should be cautious about major renovations if: You’re already near the ceiling price for your area. You plan to sell within a few years. You’d be funding the work with debt, hoping it’ll “pay off” later. The improvements are overly personalised (e.g., high-end home cinema, luxury wine cellars) that most buyers wouldn’t value equally. So, What’s the Alternative to Renovating? If you love your home and plan to stay long-term, renovating for comfort is totally valid. But if you're doing it purely for resale value, make sure you're not about to spend £100k to gain £30k. Sometimes, small cosmetic upgrades, clever staging, or simply waiting for the market to rise can give better returns than a full-on renovation.

10 ways to feel safer at home Moving into your own place is a huge milestone — exciting, empowering, and let’s be honest, a little daunting too. Whether it’s your first flat or you’ve just said goodbye to housemates, living alone as a woman comes with both freedom  and a few fears. The good news? Feeling safe isn’t about being paranoid — it’s about being prepared. Here’s how to make your space feel like the safe, secure haven it should be. 1. Change the Locks (Seriously, do it) If you've just moved in, you have no idea  who still has keys. Past tenants? Maintenance people? Exes? Get those locks changed as soon as you can — it's a small cost for peace of mind. You're not overreacting you just want to feel feel safe at home. 2. Upgrade the Basics: Curtains, Lights, Blinds This sounds so simple, but it makes a huge difference: Keep curtains or blinds closed at night, especially in the front rooms or bedroom. Use smart lights or plug-in timers to create the illusion you’re home when you’re not. Add a lamp near your front door so you’re not fumbling in the dark. 3. Get a Video Doorbell or Camera If you're renting, this can feel like overkill — but many video doorbells (like Ring or Eufy) are totally renter-friendly  and easy to install. You’ll always know who’s at the door, and most record footage too. Even having one visible can act as a deterrent  4. Fake a Housemate or Pet This one’s old school — but it works: Hang an extra coat by the door Leave out an extra pair of shoes Get a “Beware of the Dog” sign (even if you’ve only got a houseplant) Little touches make it look like you’re not living solo. 5. Door Safety Matters More Than You Think Always use a chain or door restrictor when answering the door to someone you don’t know. Don’t feel pressured to open it just because they knock — even if it’s someone claiming to be from the gas company.  6. Share Your Location (With One Trusted Person) There’s something oddly comforting about knowing someone else can see where you are. Share your location with a close friend or family member, especially if you're out late or on a date. 7. Trust Your Gut (Always) If someone’s knocking and something feels “off”, don’t open the door. If you feel weird walking home, change your route or hop in a cab. If you're anxious about a handyman appointment, have a friend pop over or FaceTime them while the person’s there.  8. Double Check Before Bed Yes, it’s the classic "Did I lock the door?" moment. Make it part of your bedtime routine: Front door locked? ✅ Windows shut? ✅ Lights off or on timers? ✅ It helps calm your mind — and helps you sleep better. 9. Create a Calm Bedroom Vibe Your bedroom should feel like your little sanctuary. Think: A dimmable lamp or fairy lights White noise machine or a calming playlist Cosy bedding and your favourite scent When you feel  secure and relaxed in your space, it becomes easier to enjoy your own company. 10. Remember: Living Alone Is a Power Move You don’t need to apologise for it or explain it away. You’re independent. You’re building your own space. And while being safety-savvy is important, don’t let fear rob you of the joy of solo living. Want more tips like this? Join the Ladies Living Alone club on PropBubble — where we share safety hacks, stories, and home inspo for women doing it all on their own (and loving it). What to Do Why It Helps Change the locks You never know who has a spare key Use smart lighting & blinds Keeps your routine private Get a video doorbell See who’s knocking without opening Fake a housemate or pet Adds an extra layer of “presence” Trust your instincts They’re there for a reason