The best home improvements for right now
Finding joy this autumn may be more challenging than usual. For many, working will be from home, socialising will be open air, and your own home and space is going to become increasingly valuable.
Emma Barkes of Stacks Property Search suggests that homeowners look at short term ways of making their own space more attractive and appropriate to the circumstances. She says, “We don’t know what we’re in for this winter. We can hope for the best, but should probably prepare for the worst. Consider what you can put in place quickly, without dramatic financial outlay, that is going to make your life significantly happier in the short term.
“Generally we look at home improvements as a long term strategy, often as a way of increasing financial value. Now is the time to think of home improvements as a way of securing short term sanity.”
Permanent Outside Covered Space
If you’ve been thinking about adding a permanent covered outdoor area, now is a good time to do so. Consider creating a veranda or loggia to extend the usability of your outdoor space. There are many ready-made solutions available for those with basic DIY skills.
Broadband
With more people spending time at home, internet demand has increased significantly. It may be worthwhile to assess and improve your broadband setup, whether through a faster package, satellite internet, a data SIM, or other solutions. In more challenging locations, specialist advice can help identify the best options.
Smaller Zones
Open-plan living has become less practical for some households as more people share the same space. Creating smaller, defined areas using furniture, screens, or temporary partitions can improve functionality and privacy. Existing layouts may need to be reconsidered to better suit changing needs.
Unannounced Visits
Many homeowners are accustomed to adult children visiting frequently and without much notice. As this becomes less common, their dedicated spaces can potentially be repurposed, provided they can easily be returned to use when needed. The likelihood of unexpected visits is reduced, allowing for more flexible use of the space.
Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor and semi-outdoor areas can provide valuable social spaces. Garages, carports, barns, outbuildings, and sheds can often be adapted with simple improvements to make them warm, dry, and well-ventilated. The emphasis is on practical, cost-effective solutions rather than major renovations.
Solitary Space
Homes are increasingly being adapted to provide private areas for work, relaxation, or quiet time. As guest and entertaining spaces become less important, demand for individual spaces has grown, especially in larger households. Spare bedrooms, dining rooms, lofts, landings, box rooms, and even under-stairs cupboards can be repurposed to better meet current needs. Temporary changes, such as replacing an unused bed with storage and workspace, can make rooms significantly more functional.
Valuable Commodities
Outdoor living accessories and equipment have become increasingly sought after. Items such as fire pits, chimeneas, gas stoves, gazebos, lanterns, fairy lights, and outdoor power supplies are in high demand, with longer lead times becoming common. Planning ahead for these purchases may help avoid delays.
