Category: Improving
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Should I make my AirBnB listing pet-friendly?
In most cases: yes. You can increase your AirBnB revenue by 11% by allowing pets. But there are some exceptions. And it can be fairly marginal. Certainly it’s not as huge as adding a hot tub. But common sense says that accepting people with dogs increases your income – and the numbers back it up….
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The Interesting Guide to Gutter-Cleaning
You’ve been putting it off, haven’t you. The gutters. A candidate for least-glamorous job on a house, but unfortunately you just have to do it. Why? Because if you don’t, your house will literally rot to pieces. Ok, that’s a bit strong. But it’s also true. If you don’t get the gutters cleaned, the water…
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Cost of New Windows in the UK
Windows are like unicorns. Everybody knows what they look like. They know that they’re expensive. But the rest is a mystery. The cost, in particular. I’m going to say it loud and clear: there is no ‘going rate’ for windows. In my research for this, I’ve read a hundred websites, forums, and personal accounts. There…
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What is FENSA and how does it work?
FENSA is a scheme that regulates window and door installation. Specifically, it’s what’s known as a ‘competent persons scheme’. These are authorised by the government. In Fensa’s case, it works like this: The key point of a competent building scheme is that it avoids a separate building inspection. It’s faster, while also protecting the consumer…
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Does a hot tub increase your AirBnB income?
In a word: yes. Getting a hot tub can increase your AirBnB income by 40% on average. In fact, I was surprised how dramatic the effect was. However, it does depend on location. Some areas saw as much as a 77% increase. One was down 1%. But the general trend is indisputably up. How do I…
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Cost of Home Insulation in the UK – Loft, Roof, Wall & Floor
Insulation is brilliant and I love it. And I’m not alone. Everyone agrees that it’s the single best way to save energy in your home. Ofgem says it is, and Which. It can save you over £1000 a year. Insulation might not be glamorous, but it’s crucial. Having bad insulation is like playing with no…
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Solar Panel Costs in the UK by Installation Size
The average cost of a solar panel installation in the UK is £7,819, as of September 2024. This is according to the MCS data dashboard. Costs have been dropping since a high point of £10,428 in April 2023. However, the cost per install varies dramatically. Getting solar panels is really a bespoke construction job, and…
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EPC Guide: How to find, use & renew your Energy Performance Certificate
EPCs are a requirement for properties in the UK, and you’ll need one to move house. They’re also actually quite useful. Find our how to read an EPC, find your existing one, and apply for a new one. What is an EPC? EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate. It gives a property a score from…
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Do Heat Pumps need planning permission?
No, not usually. However there are some exceptions. A heat pump is deemed as ‘permitted development’. That means that in most cases you can just get on with it. However (as usual) there are some rules attached, which particularly affect smaller properties. The main blocker for some households is that heat pumps can not be…
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Are triple-glazed windows worth it?
The honest answer is: it’s very borderline. Triple-glazing isn’t a solid bet in terms of financial payback, like loft insulation, or even double-glazing. But there are other benefits. Installing triple-glazing on a 3-bed home would cost around £1000-£2000 more than double-glazing. You probably aren’t going to make that money back through energy savings. But there…
