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A rising number of Britons are looking to make improvements to their property.

Such is the assertion of Lloyds TSB, who reveal that a growing number of Britons are choosing to take their homes off the market as because of recent declines in the economic climate. In a survey of estate agents, 55 per cent of respondents pointed to a rise in those removing their property from the housing market to make improvements to it instead.

It was also noted that just short of 60 per cent of people who had been looking to move had placed such plans on hold because of recent falls in the value of their property. of such Britons, about half are choosing to stay to revamp their home. Meanwhile, a 19 per cent yearly growth in loan applications in order top carry out home improvements had been noted.

For those looking for an efficient way in which to carry out improvement work to their property, obtaining one of the many cheap home improvement loans available may be an advisable course of action.

The study also showed that a brand new kitchen is the aspect of a property which has the most appeal to potential property buyers, with around four-fifths (79 per cent) of respondents indicated to be looking for such a room. Over 50 per cent of prospective buyers that took part in the study reported that a new bathroom appeals to them when looking to purchase a property, with a quarter wanting to move into a recently decorated home. However, 29 per cent of buyers that were questioned cited a loft conversion as an attractive feature, with 47 per cent stating that an extension is something which they look out for when searching for a property.

David Wishart, director of personal loans at Lloyds TSB, commented: "In recent months we have seen a significant increase in home improvement personal loan requests. For the last decade homeowners have been able to sit back and rely on rising property prices to increase the equity in their home but sadly this is no longer possible. If you want to trade up and avoid substantially increasing your mortgage, you'll need to add value to the house you're currently in. Whether your motivation is a quick sale, adding long-term value or accommodating changing lifestyle needs, it's vital you consider the financial investment you're about to make."

He also said that getting a cheap loan is a 'hassle-free, affordable way' for homeowners to spread the cost of funding a home improvement project.

Meantime, Phil Spencer, property finder and television presenter, claimed that the downturn in the housing market means any home improvement plans should be planned meticulously to "ensure maximum return on investment".

Those looking for an efficient way to refit a bathroom, add a kitchen extension or simply spruce up their property with a lick of paint might wish to bare in mind making use of home improvement loan. In using this kind of home loan it is quite possible that borrowers can not only afford the cost of materials required but additionally hire qualified professionals to carry out such work. This could also be useful for those looking to repair damage to their home after a recent study by Tescocompare identified that instances of broken windows and other domestic incidents could increase this summer while young people are on school holidays.