People looking to start work on major DIY projects should not rush in, one property expert advises.
Instead, historic buildings inspector for English Heritage John Yates tells the Times that homeowners should take the time to get a feel for their house and work out which aspects will be in particular need of improvement.
Meanwhile, Simon Buhl Davis, head of Savills Interior Services, points out that home improvement enthusiasts considering knocking down walls in order to create new space need to "make sure that the property is designed to flow and function as a whole".
"A half-done job will look awkward," he points out.
The publication also notes that those looking to improve their bathroom or kitchen should not scrimp on fittings as choosing poor quality features could ultimately reduce a property’s overall value.
Meanwhile, author of the Good Back Guide Barrie Savory recently urged those planning DIY to take care to reduce the chances of suffering back injury.