It is unlikely that there are many people who haven't felt the pinch of the recent so-called credit crunch
. For most, it has taught us a valuable lesson about being frugal and saving for rainy days at the very least sunny days when yet again someone has gone and messed up the economy.
Home improvements may well fall into the luxury category, which may well put off many from doing what they might otherwise have seen as necessary renovations. And there is good reason too. Certain household alterations will add no value to a house at all and will therefore simply be a superficial investment to improve comfort or looks. But that isn't to say that all changes will be wasted money. Smaller, less expensive changes to the fabric of the house can make major differences when it comes to putting your house on the market, so for real return on investment it is these small subtle changes that people should focus on when looking to make a change at home.
Smaller changes will not require any design work or a fleet of workmen to fit them meaning that by avoiding major changes, you are effectively saving even more money. A full refit on certain rooms may add value if it is exactly what the buyer wants, but if it isn't then the extra cost won't equate to extra value.
For bathrooms, focussing on smaller items such as taps and heated towel rails are the best way to ensure return of investment. Heated towel rails and other small adjustments can totally transform the look of bathrooms without any major hassle or expense, instantly revitalising what may have been an out-dated space. Combine this with a lick of paint and you are sure to have a whole new feel to what may have been a tired old room.