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North Wales Live
14-05-2025
- Business
- North Wales Live
Renters reveal their top home improvements as they embrace their space
Summer is a time for home renovations and decorative upgrades, and this year it seems that British renters are finding even more creative ways to put a personal touch on their properties. New research from Smart Energy GB has found that June is the most popular month for a 'renters refresh' as nice weather inspires home changes (37%), spending almost £700 on average making stylistic changes to their homes. Yet, while June signals a moment of change for many, half (50%) of renters say they update their space several times a year with clever, often temporary, upgrades to showcase their personalities and create functional, beautiful spaces to build lasting memories. Video Loading More simple changes like replacing hardware on cabinetry and storage (18%) and switching up home accessories to add pops of colour (44%) also help renters put a stamp on their properties. In fact, renters have found even more creative ways to add their own flair to their property, including using removable vinyl flooring (18%) and adhesive tiles (16%). And it's not just aesthetic changes taking place in the homes of British renters - more than a quarter (28%) of renters say they've made changes to make their homes more energy efficient. For many, this comes in the form of taking ownership of their household energy management, by switching to LED lightbulbs (48%), choosing their preferred energy provider (22%) and getting a smart meter installed (38%). Steve Pimblett, Chief Data Officer at Rightmove, adds: 'Energy efficiency is one of the top priorities for renters, with 88% valuing a low carbon footprint and 80% considering it in their next move. Renters are not only aware of the importance but are also willing to act, with most of them ready to pay more for energy-efficient homes and encouraging their landlords to make green upgrades to help save on their energy bills.' While nearly a quarter (23%) of renters admit to being unaware that they could request a smart meter installation in their property, if your energy bills are in your name, it's easy to arrange with your energy supplier. However, it is recommended you let your landlord know before you upgrade. The benefits of doing so for renters are clear, with 29% feeling more in control of their energy usage and bills. Smart Energy GB has teamed up with author and interiors expert, Kate Watson-Smyth. She added: 'It's so important to feel in control of the place you call home, from renter-friendly decorating hacks to simple swaps that can save energy and money. Here are my top tips to embrace the space and make the most of every corner of your home: Swap Out Harsh Lighting Rentals can often have bright, cold white bulbs installed, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Swap them for warm white LED bulbs. Upgrade the Shower Head Most bathrooms use standard fittings, so replacing the shower head is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference. Keep the old one so you can swap it back before you leave! Use Your Own Curtains Curtains are easy to store and are a great touch to elevate a space. Swap out existing ones for styles you like, and consider adding thermal lining to keep your home warmer and reduce heating costs. Change back before you go so you can use them again. Block Draughts Creatively Prevent cold air from creeping in under doors by sewing your own draught excluders. Hang Art Without Damaging Walls Artwork and pictures are a great way of adding a personal touch to your home. In period rentals with picture rails, use chains and hooks to hang art without nails. Work With Unchangeable Décor If you're stuck with uninspiring features, like that classic 'rental grey' carpet, try incorporating that colour into rugs, cushions, or lampshades. Soften the Kitchen Aesthetic Give your kitchen a quick facelift by using tile stickers and replacing cabinet handles. Dimming harsh lighting and placing a small table lamp on the counter can make the space feel warmer and more inviting. Request a Smart Meter If the energy bills are in your name, you can request a smart meter from your energy supplier at no extra cost, just remember to keep your landlord in the loop. They come with an in-home display that shows how much energy you're using in near-real time. Victoria Bacon, Director at Smart Energy GB, said: 'British renters are incredibly innovative when it comes to personalising their homes. 'But it's not just decoration. Many are also making changes to save themselves some money, including choosing to request a smart meter from their energy supplier. Smart meters enable you to track and manage your energy use and many people are able to make savings as a result - just remember to let your landlord know.' Of those who have made changes to their rental property, 86% say the time and effort has been worth it as it makes them feel more at home (63%). In fact a few tweaks can go a long way when it comes to making renters feel at home, just a further (22%) say their property felt like home when they moved in, versus 60% after making a few changes.
Wales Online
14-05-2025
- Business
- Wales Online
Renters reveal their top home improvements as they embrace their space
Renters reveal their top home improvements as they embrace their space New research from Smart Energy GB has found that June is the most popular month for a 'renters refresh' as nice weather inspires home changes (37%), spending almost £700 on average making stylistic changes to their homes More than a quarter (28%) of renters say they've made changes to make their homes more energy efficient Summer is a time for home renovations and decorative upgrades, and this year it seems that British renters are finding even more creative ways to put a personal touch on their properties. New research from Smart Energy GB has found that June is the most popular month for a 'renters refresh' as nice weather inspires home changes (37%), spending almost £700 on average making stylistic changes to their homes. Yet, while June signals a moment of change for many, half (50%) of renters say they update their space several times a year with clever, often temporary, upgrades to showcase their personalities and create functional, beautiful spaces to build lasting memories. SEGB - Make it Your Own More simple changes like replacing hardware on cabinetry and storage (18%) and switching up home accessories to add pops of colour (44%) also help renters put a stamp on their properties. In fact, renters have found even more creative ways to add their own flair to their property, including using removable vinyl flooring (18%) and adhesive tiles (16%). And it's not just aesthetic changes taking place in the homes of British renters - more than a quarter (28%) of renters say they've made changes to make their homes more energy efficient. For many, this comes in the form of taking ownership of their household energy management, by switching to LED lightbulbs (48%), choosing their preferred energy provider (22%) and getting a smart meter installed (38%). Article continues below Steve Pimblett, Chief Data Officer at Rightmove, adds: 'Energy efficiency is one of the top priorities for renters, with 88% valuing a low carbon footprint and 80% considering it in their next move. Renters are not only aware of the importance but are also willing to act, with most of them ready to pay more for energy-efficient homes and encouraging their landlords to make green upgrades to help save on their energy bills.' While nearly a quarter (23%) of renters admit to being unaware that they could request a smart meter installation in their property, if your energy bills are in your name, it's easy to arrange with your energy supplier. However, it is recommended you let your landlord know before you upgrade. The benefits of doing so for renters are clear, with 29% feeling more in control of their energy usage and bills. Smart Energy GB has teamed up with author and interiors expert, Kate Watson-Smyth. She added: 'It's so important to feel in control of the place you call home, from renter-friendly decorating hacks to simple swaps that can save energy and money. Here are my top tips to embrace the space and make the most of every corner of your home: Swap Out Harsh Lighting Rentals can often have bright, cold white bulbs installed, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Swap them for warm white LED bulbs. Upgrade the Shower Head Most bathrooms use standard fittings, so replacing the shower head is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference. Keep the old one so you can swap it back before you leave! Use Your Own Curtains Curtains are easy to store and are a great touch to elevate a space. Swap out existing ones for styles you like, and consider adding thermal lining to keep your home warmer and reduce heating costs. Change back before you go so you can use them again. Block Draughts Creatively Prevent cold air from creeping in under doors by sewing your own draught excluders. Hang Art Without Damaging Walls Artwork and pictures are a great way of adding a personal touch to your home. In period rentals with picture rails, use chains and hooks to hang art without nails. Work With Unchangeable Décor If you're stuck with uninspiring features, like that classic 'rental grey' carpet, try incorporating that colour into rugs, cushions, or lampshades. Soften the Kitchen Aesthetic Give your kitchen a quick facelift by using tile stickers and replacing cabinet handles. Dimming harsh lighting and placing a small table lamp on the counter can make the space feel warmer and more inviting. Request a Smart Meter If the energy bills are in your name, you can request a smart meter from your energy supplier at no extra cost, just remember to keep your landlord in the loop. They come with an in-home display that shows how much energy you're using in near-real time. Find out more about smart meters for renters HERE. Victoria Bacon, Director at Smart Energy GB, said: 'British renters are incredibly innovative when it comes to personalising their homes. Article continues below 'But it's not just decoration. Many are also making changes to save themselves some money, including choosing to request a smart meter from their energy supplier. Smart meters enable you to track and manage your energy use and many people are able to make savings as a result - just remember to let your landlord know.' Of those who have made changes to their rental property, 86% say the time and effort has been worth it as it makes them feel more at home (63%). In fact a few tweaks can go a long way when it comes to making renters feel at home, just a further (22%) say their property felt like home when they moved in, versus 60% after making a few changes.
The Sun
14-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Brits renting spend nearly £700 on décor to make rentals feel like home
RENTERS are spending almost £700 on 'removable' décor to help their house feel more like a home during their tenancy. A study of 1,000 private renters found they enhance their spaces with adhesive tiles (16 per cent), hooks for hanging plants (17 per cent), and removable wallpaper (16 per cent). 3 3 While 14 per cent are installing wireless stick-on wall sconces, and 23 per cent have added smart lighting in the home. It also emerged 70 per cent have made updates to personalise their property – with 86 per cent saying the time and money spent is worth it. But it's not just about aesthetics – 28 per cent are also focused on making their home more energy efficient. Of those, 38 per cent have had a smart meter installed to better manage energy use, with 31 per cent switching to energy-efficient appliances, and 22 per cent choosing their preferred energy provider, according to the research commissioned by Smart Energy GB. Steve Pimblett, chief data officer at Rightmove, said: 'Energy efficiency is one of the top priorities for renters, with 88 per cent valuing a low carbon footprint and 80 per cent considering it in their next move. 'Renters are not only aware of the importance but are also willing to act, with the vast majority of them ready to pay more for energy-efficient homes and encouraging their landlords to make green upgrades to help save on their energy bills.' The study also found the personal touches that bring the most joy include photos of loved ones (43 per cent), soft furnishings (41 per cent), and chosen home accessories (41 per cent). Adding plants (39 per cent) and flowers (34 per cent) also boosts happiness for many. Softer lighting (27 per cent), colourful walls (21 per cent), and smart technology (14 per cent) have further helped renters feel happier in their homes. Victoria Bacon, director at Smart Energy GB, added: 'British renters are incredibly innovative when it comes to personalising their homes. 'But it's not just decoration. Many are also making changes to save themselves some money, including choosing to request a smart meter from their energy supplier. 'Smart meters enable you to track and manage your energy use, and many people are able to make savings as a result – just remember to let your landlord know.' Upon moving in, 36 per cent felt the property needed improvement, prompting their décor upgrades. For others, the motivation was emotional – 22 per cent said the place didn't feel like home, while 14 per cent wanted their surroundings to reflect their personality. The research, conducted via OnePoll, also found 45 per cent are most likely to tackle these home updates between May and August, with warmer weather sparking inspiration for 37 per cent. A third (34 per cent) said spring and summer let them get out in the garden for DIY, while 30 per cent claim longer days help them make progress. Interior expert Kate Watson-Smyth, who is working with Smart Energy GB, said: 'It's so important to feel in control of the place you call home - from renter-friendly decorating hacks to simple swaps that can save energy and money.' 1. Swap harsh lighting for warm white LED bulbs to create a softer, more inviting atmosphere and save energy. 2. Upgrade your shower head for better water pressure, efficiency, and a more enjoyable daily routine. Keep the old one so you can swap it back when you leave. 3. Use your own curtains to personalize your space and add thermal lining for extra warmth and energy savings. Swap back before you go and use them again. 4. Block draughts with homemade excluders that are easy to make, store, and hang when not in use. 5. Hang art without damaging walls using picture rails or self-adhesive hooks for a renter-friendly personal touch. 6. Work with unchangeable décor by matching existing features with coordinated accessories for a cohesive look. 7. Soften your kitchen's look with tile stickers, new cabinet handles, and warm lighting like a countertop lamp. Remember to put the original handles back when you move out. 8. Request a smart meter to monitor energy use in near-real time and manage your bills more efficiently. 3
The Independent
05-02-2025
- Business
- The Independent
February and March ‘best months to list a home for sale'
February and March are the best months to list a home for sale, based on the likelihood of a transaction completing, according to analysis by a property website. Around two (66.3%) in every three homes listed in February and March since 2012 have gone on to sell successfully, making the months the joint strongest of the year, Rightmove found. Rightmove's analysis looked at millions of properties listed for sale since 2012, excluding 2020 due to the distorting effects of the coronavirus pandemic. The spring selling season is traditionally one of the busiest periods of the year Steve Pimblett, Rightmove February also has the joint quickest time to find a buyer on average historically, alongside January, at 51 days for a typical home to find a buyer, closely followed by March and April at 52 days. Rightmove also found that April and January are only just behind February and March, as the best months to list a home based on the likelihood to complete. At the other end of the spectrum is the month of December, with 61.7% of homes listed in this month going on to complete a sale. Would-be buyers are often distracted by Christmas. Rightmove said it has been an encouraging start to the year for buyer activity. After the first full month of the year, the number of potential buyers contacting agents about homes for sale is up by 8% compared with the same period last year, and the number of sales being agreed is up by 15%, the website said. However, stamp duty discounts are due to become less generous from April this year, with the 'nil rate' band for first-time buyers reducing from £425,000 to £300,000. Stamp duty applies in England and Northern Ireland. Steve Pimblett, chief data officer at Rightmove, said: 'The spring selling season is traditionally one of the busiest periods of the year for agents, and the signs of buyer activity we've been seeing are setting the scene for a positive one this year.' Small touches like tidying up the front garden and mowing the lawn can send out the message that your home is easy to maintain and well-kept Ben Hudson, Hudson Moody, York Ben Hudson, managing director at Hudson Moody in York said: 'To give yourself the best chance of a successful sale, it's really important to present your home at its best. It may sound obvious, but clean up, de-clutter and make sure any obvious defects are put right before the photos are taken and viewers start coming round. 'Kerb appeal is very important as when people arrive to view your property, and walk past it on the street or drive past it in a car they will form some kind of impression of your home. The more attractive you can make it look on the outside, the more likely people are to want to come inside. 'Small touches like tidying up the front garden and mowing the lawn can send out the message that your home is easy to maintain and well-kept, which will delight some buyers who might not have the time to spend on household chores. 'The obvious things such as putting on lights to show the house well, putting the heating on, and making sure it smells fresh and clean is also important for comfortable viewings, leaving potential buyers with the right impression.' Here are the average percentages of homes that have successfully completed a sale and the average number of days to find a buyer, according to Rightmove's data: January, 66.1%, 51 February, 66.3%, 51, March, 66.3%, 52 April, 66.1%, 52 May, 65.4%, 54 June, 64.4%, 56 July, 63.8%, 57 August, 64.0%, 58 September, 63.0%, 59 October, 62.4%, 61 November, 62.2%, 61 December, 61.7%, 59
