Free DIY tips

There’s always something that won’t go according to plan! If not properly managed, this can cause time and cost blow outs that compound as the property remains vacant.

When changing door handles and locks, check the distance between the edge of the door and the middle of the lock. Most door handles are fitted between 60-70mm from the edge of the door to the middle of the door handle. Then make sure that the handle/lock that you purchase will fit! Some have a variable distance and will fit a 60-80mm length, whilst others are fixed at either 60mm or 70mm – so check the label carefully. If the length required is larger (e.g. 150mm) you will need to purchase an extension latch as well. These can be found at specialist door furniture stores. Just let them know what the length requirement is and they will order in the appropriate fitting. Don’t forget to purchase a standard handle/lock as well!

It may come as no surprise but a repaint throughout can do amazing things to almost any property. We recommend you use neutral tones and a maximum of two colours. It’s also possible to do a place in just one colour and make it look like two or three colours – it’s about using tricks of light and shade.

Light fittings are also important but often overlooked. They are cheap and can really help with the visual impact. Don’t forget to check how easy the light globes are to change!

New power points and light switches can really help add that finished look to a repainted house. Consider adding extra outlets in some rooms as many older houses were designed without foreseeing our love affair with electrical appliances.

Do your research – compare your property with others on the market. Check out rents on similar properties. Look at the “new” and near “new” looking properties in the area so you get a good idea of what tenants want in the property and most importantly, what features they are willing to pay for. For example, it’s no good having a kitchen without a dishwasher if every other place has one – tenants will expect one!










Free DIY tips There’s always something that won’t go according to plan! If not properly managed, this can cause time and cost blow outs that compound as the property remains vacant. When changing door handles and locks, check the distance between the edge of the door and the middle of the lock. Most door handles are fitted between 60-70mm from the edge of the door to the middle of the door handle. Then make sure that the handle/lock that you purchase will fit! Some have a variable distance and will fit a 60-80mm length, whilst others are fixed at either 60mm or 70mm – so check the label carefully. If the length required is larger (e.g. 150mm) you will need to purchase an extension latch as well. These can be found at specialist door furniture stores. Just let them know what the length requirement is and they will order in the appropriate fitting. Don’t forget to purchase a standard handle/lock as well! It may come as no surprise but a repaint throughout can do amazing things to almost any property. We recommend you use neutral tones and a maximum of two colours. It’s also possible to do a place in just one colour and make it look like two or three colours – it’s about using tricks of light and shade. Light fittings are also important but often overlooked. They are cheap and can really help with the visual impact. Don’t forget to check how easy the light globes are to change! New power points and light switches can really help add that finished look to a repainted house. Consider adding extra outlets in some rooms as many older houses were designed without foreseeing our love affair with electrical appliances. Do your research – compare your property with others on the market. Check out rents on similar properties. Look at the “new” and near “new” looking properties in the area so you get a good idea of what tenants want in the property and most importantly, what features they are willing to pay for. For example, it’s no good having a kitchen without a dishwasher if every other place has one – tenants will expect one!