Latest news with #Joneses'
Leader Live
12-06-2025
- Business
- Leader Live
Homeowners favour kitchens and bathrooms over eco upgrades
The study of 2,000 property owners found more than half are prioritising cosmetic makeovers because they believe it adds more value and offers instant gratification. Many would rather splash out on a new kitchen (48 per cent) or bathroom suite (39 per cent) than invest in insulation (19 per cent) or energy-efficient heating systems (31 per cent). And 43 per cent admit they opt for these flashy upgrades simply because they want something new to enjoy – with 16 per cent confessing they just love the thrill of a fresh home feature. (Image: Skipton Building Society) While 53 per cent said energy-efficient improvements just don't give them the same buzz as a swanky new renovation. The research, commissioned by Skipton Building Society, part of the Skipton Group, coincides with the release of The Big Retrofit report, which follows the energy efficiency transformation of a previously fossil-fuel reliant home. The report, developed with Leeds Beckett University and the University of Leeds, reveals how the retrofit of a typical 1930s detached home – featuring triple glazing, solar panels and an air source heat pump – cut carbon emissions, improved comfort, and boosted the home's EPC rating from D to B. Phil Spencer, TV star, property expert and Move iQ founder, said: 'It's easy to get caught up in choosing statement tiles or bold paint colours, but the most valuable home improvements aren't always the most Instagrammable. 'Green upgrades not only save money in the long run, but they can also boost comfort, value and sustainability, all without spoiling the look of your home.' But it seems a new kind of 'keeping up with the Joneses' is sweeping through Britain's streets and cul-de-sacs – and this time, it's all about going green. More than a quarter (28 per cent) now say they know a neighbour who's made big low carbon technology or energy efficiency related changes to their home – and 53 per cent of these have been inspired to follow suit. As a result, 48 per cent have looked into getting solar panels, 24 per cent have explored upgrading their loft insulation – and 15 per cent would consider installing triple glazed windows. For 38 per cent, it was hearing their neighbours had managed to cut their energy bills that got them interested. Another 36 per cent said seeing what was actually possible gave them a lightbulb moment, while 30 per cent felt more confident after seeing the results up close. Almost half (47 per cent) of all homeowners now reckon making eco improvements has become a modern-day status symbol, according to the research conducted by OnePoll. Charging an electric car on the drive is seen as one of the leading signs you've 'made it' (32 per cent) – followed by underfloor heating powered by renewables (28 per cent) and having a heat pump (25 per cent). Michaela Wright, head of group sustainability at Skipton Building Society added: 'This research suggests we may be seeing a shift from 'keeping up with the Joneses' to 'greening up with the Jones'. 'As more people see their neighbours investing in greener technologies, it naturally sparks curiosity and motivation to do the same. 'There's something powerful about seeing these changes up close – it makes the benefits feel more real and achievable. 'The idea of a modern status symbol is evolving, and now things like solar panels, heat pumps and electric cars are part of that. 'It's a positive sign that more energy efficient choices are becoming aspirational, not just practical. 'We understand that making energy-efficient home improvements might not be at the top of everyone's priority list. 'That's why we took on the journey ourselves – to help demystify the retrofit process through The Big Retrofit project. 'We've documented our experience and created a series of resources, to support others who are considering making similar improvements.'
Glasgow Times
12-06-2025
- Business
- Glasgow Times
Homeowners favour kitchens and bathrooms over eco upgrades
The study of 2,000 property owners found more than half are prioritising cosmetic makeovers because they believe it adds more value and offers instant gratification. Many would rather splash out on a new kitchen (48 per cent) or bathroom suite (39 per cent) than invest in insulation (19 per cent) or energy-efficient heating systems (31 per cent). And 43 per cent admit they opt for these flashy upgrades simply because they want something new to enjoy – with 16 per cent confessing they just love the thrill of a fresh home feature. (Image: Skipton Building Society) While 53 per cent said energy-efficient improvements just don't give them the same buzz as a swanky new renovation. The research, commissioned by Skipton Building Society, part of the Skipton Group, coincides with the release of The Big Retrofit report, which follows the energy efficiency transformation of a previously fossil-fuel reliant home. The report, developed with Leeds Beckett University and the University of Leeds, reveals how the retrofit of a typical 1930s detached home – featuring triple glazing, solar panels and an air source heat pump – cut carbon emissions, improved comfort, and boosted the home's EPC rating from D to B. Phil Spencer, TV star, property expert and Move iQ founder, said: 'It's easy to get caught up in choosing statement tiles or bold paint colours, but the most valuable home improvements aren't always the most Instagrammable. 'Green upgrades not only save money in the long run, but they can also boost comfort, value and sustainability, all without spoiling the look of your home.' But it seems a new kind of 'keeping up with the Joneses' is sweeping through Britain's streets and cul-de-sacs – and this time, it's all about going green. More than a quarter (28 per cent) now say they know a neighbour who's made big low carbon technology or energy efficiency related changes to their home – and 53 per cent of these have been inspired to follow suit. As a result, 48 per cent have looked into getting solar panels, 24 per cent have explored upgrading their loft insulation – and 15 per cent would consider installing triple glazed windows. For 38 per cent, it was hearing their neighbours had managed to cut their energy bills that got them interested. Another 36 per cent said seeing what was actually possible gave them a lightbulb moment, while 30 per cent felt more confident after seeing the results up close. Almost half (47 per cent) of all homeowners now reckon making eco improvements has become a modern-day status symbol, according to the research conducted by OnePoll. Charging an electric car on the drive is seen as one of the leading signs you've 'made it' (32 per cent) – followed by underfloor heating powered by renewables (28 per cent) and having a heat pump (25 per cent). Michaela Wright, head of group sustainability at Skipton Building Society added: 'This research suggests we may be seeing a shift from 'keeping up with the Joneses' to 'greening up with the Jones'. 'As more people see their neighbours investing in greener technologies, it naturally sparks curiosity and motivation to do the same. 'There's something powerful about seeing these changes up close – it makes the benefits feel more real and achievable. 'The idea of a modern status symbol is evolving, and now things like solar panels, heat pumps and electric cars are part of that. 'It's a positive sign that more energy efficient choices are becoming aspirational, not just practical. 'We understand that making energy-efficient home improvements might not be at the top of everyone's priority list. 'That's why we took on the journey ourselves – to help demystify the retrofit process through The Big Retrofit project. 'We've documented our experience and created a series of resources, to support others who are considering making similar improvements.'
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Warren Buffett's $3 Breakfast Habit: Is Simplicity the Key to Wealth?
You may be well aware that Warren Buffett is one of the richest people on the planet, boasting a net worth of $153 billion. What you may not know, is that Buffett is self-made and, additionally, that he practices frugality in a few key ways. Find Out: Read Next: Buffett still happily resides in a modest house in Omaha that he bought in 1958 for $31,500. He spends $18 on haircuts and $3.17 on breakfast from McDonald's. Buffett surely isn't choosing to make these excessively budget-friendly moves because he has to financially — and he does have some lavish habits (hello, $850,000 private jet). He appears to honestly just prefer keeping some things super simple. Is he onto something here? Is simplicity one of the keys to building wealth? It can be. Research shows that no matter how much or how little we make, we all benefit from the insightful support that budgeting provides. As we've collectively become more financially literate, budgeting methods marketed as 'simple' have become popular. You've got the zero-based budgeting method, the 50/30/20 budget, the pay-yourself-first budget and so on. By and large, these budgeting methods live up to their images of being simple. And they also have proven to be effective. A simple budget seems to be easier to stick with than a complex one and genuinely helps us out. Learn More: There is evidence that a simple investing strategy pays off. In fact, Buffett's strategy is pretty simple, compared to that of some other ultra-wealthy investors. He champions the 90/10 strategy, which integrates long-term thinking, limited risk, low fees and low time management. This approach is certainly paying off for him. The minimalism movement isn't always about reduced spending and financial simplicity, but often it is. For example, the website Becoming Minimalist boasts the lead blog 'Simple Living. The Earlier, the Better' and highlights how the simplification aspect of minimalism can help you stave off debt and financial obligations in general. It's easy to see the tie between keeping it simple money-wise and making room for core wealth-building moves, saving and investing. Research shows that when we have a lot of options on the table, or a host of decisions to make, we're susceptible to a psychological phenomenon called 'analysis paralysis.' A glut of financial decisions can easily overwhelm us and cause us to overthink to the point where we can't think straight. A simpler life ideally leads to fewer decisions to weigh and make, which helps prevent analysis paralysis and the increased risk of making a bad money choice. If, like Buffett, you're used to keeping it simple in key aspects of your life, you'll be less tempted to succumb to a 'keeping up with the Joneses' mentality and you'll be less likely to be a victim of lifestyle inflation, where you augment your spending as your income goes up. You may start buying nicer or just more things to the point where you're not saving or investing at the rate you should be. All said, there's a lot to be said for the 'keep it simple, stupid' if you want to be smart about money. More From GOBankingRates 3 Luxury SUVs That Will Have Massive Price Drops in Summer 2025 10 Genius Things Warren Buffett Says To Do With Your Money 5 Types of Cars Retirees Should Stay Away From Buying This article originally appeared on Warren Buffett's $3 Breakfast Habit: Is Simplicity the Key to Wealth?
Scotsman
10-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scotsman
Britain's top ten modern status symbols for the home
More than half of homeowners are prioritising cosmetic makeovers because they believe it adds more value | Tom Maddick SWNS Homeowners are shunning expensive eco-features like solar panels in favour of new kitchens and bathrooms, a report claims. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The study of 2,000 property owners found more than half are prioritising cosmetic makeovers because they believe it adds more value and offers instant gratification. Many would rather splash out on a new kitchen (48 per cent) or bathroom suite (39 per cent) than invest in insulation (19 per cent) or energy-efficient heating systems (31 per cent). Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad And 43 per cent admit they opt for these flashy upgrades simply because they want something new to enjoy – with 16 per cent confessing they just love the thrill of a fresh home feature. While 53 per cent said energy-efficient improvements just don't give them the same buzz as a swanky new renovation. The research, commissioned by Skipton Building Society, part of the Skipton Group, coincides with the release of The Big Retrofit report, which follows the energy efficiency transformation of a previously fossil-fuel reliant home. The report, developed with Leeds Beckett University and the University of Leeds, reveals how the retrofit of a typical 1930s detached home – featuring triple glazing, solar panels and an air source heat pump – cut carbon emissions, improved comfort, and boosted the home's EPC rating from D to B. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Phil Spencer, TV star, property expert and Move iQ founder, said: 'It's easy to get caught up in choosing statement tiles or bold paint colours, but the most valuable home improvements aren't always the most Instagrammable. 'Green upgrades not only save money in the long run, but they can also boost comfort, value and sustainability, all without spoiling the look of your home. But it seems a new kind of 'keeping up with the Joneses' is sweeping through Britain's streets and cul-de-sacs – and this time, it's all about going green. 'Green upgrades not only save money in the long run, but they can also boost comfort' More than a quarter (28 per cent) now say they know a neighbour who's made big low carbon technology or energy efficiency related changes to their home – and 53 per cent of these have been inspired to follow suit. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad As a result, 48 per cent have looked into getting solar panels, 24 per cent have explored upgrading their loft insulation – and 15 per cent would consider installing triple glazed windows. For 38 per cent, it was hearing their neighbours had managed to cut their energy bills that got them interested. Another 36 per cent said seeing what was actually possible gave them a lightbulb moment, while 30 per cent felt more confident after seeing the results up close. Almost half (47 per cent) of all homeowners now reckon making eco improvements has become a modern-day status symbol, according to the research conducted by OnePoll. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Charging an electric car on the drive is seen as one of the leading signs you've 'made it' (32 per cent) – followed by underfloor heating powered by renewables (28 per cent) and having a heat pump (25 per cent). Michaela Wright, head of group sustainability at Skipton Building Society added: 'This research suggests we may be seeing a shift from 'keeping up with the Joneses' to 'greening up with the Jones'. 'As more people see their neighbours investing in greener technologies, it naturally sparks curiosity and motivation to do the same. 'There's something powerful about seeing these changes up close – it makes the benefits feel more real and achievable. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'The idea of a modern status symbol is evolving, and now things like solar panels, heat pumps and electric cars are part of that. 'It's a positive sign that more energy efficient choices are becoming aspirational, not just practical. 'We understand that making energy-efficient home improvements might not be at the top of everyone's priority list. 'That's why we took on the journey ourselves – to help demystify the retrofit process through The Big Retrofit project. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'We've documented our experience and created a series of resources, to support others who are considering making similar improvements.' The research, commissioned by Skipton Building Society, part of the Skipton Group, coincides with the release of The Big Retrofit report | Skipton Building Society Top 10 modern home status symbols: Installing solar panels Owning an electric vehicle with a home charging point Installing underfloor heating powered by renewable energy Fitting a ground source or air source heat pump Having a smart home energy management system Triple glazing throughout the home A full eco-renovation or retrofit Building a modern extension with sustainable materials A living or green roof External wall insulation with a sleek render finish
Scotsman
10-06-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
Britain's top ten modern status symbols for the home
More than half of homeowners are prioritising cosmetic makeovers because they believe it adds more value | Tom Maddick SWNS Homeowners are shunning expensive eco-features like solar panels in favour of new kitchens and bathrooms, a report claims. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The study of 2,000 property owners found more than half are prioritising cosmetic makeovers because they believe it adds more value and offers instant gratification. Many would rather splash out on a new kitchen (48 per cent) or bathroom suite (39 per cent) than invest in insulation (19 per cent) or energy-efficient heating systems (31 per cent). Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad And 43 per cent admit they opt for these flashy upgrades simply because they want something new to enjoy – with 16 per cent confessing they just love the thrill of a fresh home feature. While 53 per cent said energy-efficient improvements just don't give them the same buzz as a swanky new renovation. The research, commissioned by Skipton Building Society, part of the Skipton Group, coincides with the release of The Big Retrofit report, which follows the energy efficiency transformation of a previously fossil-fuel reliant home. The report, developed with Leeds Beckett University and the University of Leeds, reveals how the retrofit of a typical 1930s detached home – featuring triple glazing, solar panels and an air source heat pump – cut carbon emissions, improved comfort, and boosted the home's EPC rating from D to B. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Phil Spencer, TV star, property expert and Move iQ founder, said: 'It's easy to get caught up in choosing statement tiles or bold paint colours, but the most valuable home improvements aren't always the most Instagrammable. 'Green upgrades not only save money in the long run, but they can also boost comfort, value and sustainability, all without spoiling the look of your home. But it seems a new kind of 'keeping up with the Joneses' is sweeping through Britain's streets and cul-de-sacs – and this time, it's all about going green. 'Green upgrades not only save money in the long run, but they can also boost comfort' More than a quarter (28 per cent) now say they know a neighbour who's made big low carbon technology or energy efficiency related changes to their home – and 53 per cent of these have been inspired to follow suit. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad As a result, 48 per cent have looked into getting solar panels, 24 per cent have explored upgrading their loft insulation – and 15 per cent would consider installing triple glazed windows. For 38 per cent, it was hearing their neighbours had managed to cut their energy bills that got them interested. Another 36 per cent said seeing what was actually possible gave them a lightbulb moment, while 30 per cent felt more confident after seeing the results up close. Almost half (47 per cent) of all homeowners now reckon making eco improvements has become a modern-day status symbol, according to the research conducted by OnePoll. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Charging an electric car on the drive is seen as one of the leading signs you've 'made it' (32 per cent) – followed by underfloor heating powered by renewables (28 per cent) and having a heat pump (25 per cent). Michaela Wright, head of group sustainability at Skipton Building Society added: 'This research suggests we may be seeing a shift from 'keeping up with the Joneses' to 'greening up with the Jones'. 'As more people see their neighbours investing in greener technologies, it naturally sparks curiosity and motivation to do the same. 'There's something powerful about seeing these changes up close – it makes the benefits feel more real and achievable. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'The idea of a modern status symbol is evolving, and now things like solar panels, heat pumps and electric cars are part of that. 'It's a positive sign that more energy efficient choices are becoming aspirational, not just practical. 'We understand that making energy-efficient home improvements might not be at the top of everyone's priority list. 'That's why we took on the journey ourselves – to help demystify the retrofit process through The Big Retrofit project. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'We've documented our experience and created a series of resources, to support others who are considering making similar improvements.' The research, commissioned by Skipton Building Society, part of the Skipton Group, coincides with the release of The Big Retrofit report | Skipton Building Society Top 10 modern home status symbols:
