Happy homeowners boast about property value

30/06/2011

A man’s house really is his castle with boastful Brits needing little excuse to show off improvements made to their homes to add to its value.

According to new research by Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks, one in ten homeowners admit to hosting a flash dinner party just to unveil their latest DIY successes whilst one in six proud Brits invite loved ones over just to look at their new loo.

Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks surveyed 3,000 Brits and found that an extravagant 104,000 adults have even gathered friends and family to reveal a new hot tub or steam room at their property. However, only a surprising four per cent of people have invited family over to unveil their baby’s nursery.

But house-proud Brits aren’t just showing off their homes to close relatives with one in ten Brits inviting colleagues over for dinner and an outgoing one in 20 Brits hosting people they’ve only just met at the gym or on holiday.

What’s more, Brits are going to extreme lengths to impress these guests with a fifth even admitting they would make changes to their home especially in preparation for a dinner party. And while a third would hide embarrassing items and photos, a fifth would go as far as making small home improvements, buy accessories or re-decorate in advance of guests coming round.

Steve Reid, retail director for Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks said: “It’s great to see that homeowners are thinking about adding value to their properties in order to take the next step on the property ladder. Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks have trained advisers who are here to guide and support people through the maze of information to help understand their options when it comes to buying and selling a house.”

Most popular home improvements that homeowners show off at a dinner party according to the survey:

• Garden makeover – 15.7 per cent
• New kitchen – 14.45 per cent
• New bathroom – 13.5 per cent
• Conservatory – 8 per cent
• Loft conversion – 5 per cent
• Baby’s nursery – 4.7 per cent
• Swimming pool, steam room or hot tub – 4.4 per cent