Homeowners South West urged to seek professional help before carrying out major renovations

New research by Velux shows that despite almost a quarter of homeowners in London planning to carry out work to their home next year, almost a third have not costed the project and 76 per cent admit they do not know how they will pay for it.

Low interest rates and soaring house prices have made borrowing to renovate your home seem more attractive than moving, but research shows that many people don’t properly plan ahead.

Only 10 per cent of people have spoken to an architect about their renovation plans and three quarters have not yet received a competitive building quote.

The festive period is traditionally the season when homeowners start to think about home improvements and making those essential repairs. It is therefore not surprising that almost a quarter of homeowners are hoping to start work in the first quarter of the year.

The majority (51 per cent) are planning to paint and decorate, but a high proportion of homeowners hope to carry out major renovations with new kitchens (30 per cent), bathrooms (24 per cent), extensions (19 per cent) and new windows (8 per cent) topping the home improvements wish list.

Grant Sneddon, product manager from VELUX, said: “It’s the time of year when many families start sketching their plans to transform their homes, which can be anything from small projects such as replacing windows to renovating a kitchen or building a large-scale extension.

“What our comprehensive research underlines is that an increasing number of homeowners in the South West are turning to renovations to improve their existing homes rather than move house. This is a great idea as upsizing to a bigger property isn’t easy in today’s climate and tackling a renovation can be a great way to create a unique home.

“Whatever the project, it’s absolutely crucial to bring in a good professional as early as possible. Not only w