Homeowners only have a few more weeks to beat the New Year VAT rise if they want to make improvements to their properties.
In such a limited time frame, major DIY projects may be out of the question.
However, there are some quick and easy updates families can carry out to breathe new life into their homes.
According to US home improvement firm Lowe's, painting is one of the most effective ways to transform a room in a weekend.
The group pointed out that because it has minimal wall space, the kitchen is a great place to experiment with bold colours.
In the living room, an accent wall could be painted in a shade that will complement the home's decor all year round.
Other easy updates include new lighting in kitchens, dining rooms and living spaces to add atmosphere, as well as decorative pieces such as rugs, curtains and storage solutions to keep clutter at bay.
Posted by Barney Marshall