A staggering six out of ten homeowners confess their homes are still ‘works in progress’, anticipating a further four years to complete them. The report shows seven out of ten homeowners find themselves carrying out some form of DIY project, yet the strain of living in an unfinished space is having a negative impact on their mood.
Gardens and external areas are frequently left unfinished, with kitchens and bedrooms trailing close behind. Inside the home, common incomplete tasks include ceilings awaiting paint, walls marred by cracks or holes, and peeling wallpaper. One in five homes still lack skirting boards or coving.
Simon Ribchester, Beams’ head of design, said: “Do you know anyone whose home is truly ‘finished’? It’s quite rare.”
He added: “Usually, by the time you’re putting the finishing touches to one room, the first one you renovated needs attention again.”
The study went on to find 65 percent get very or somewhat frustrated when there are small or unfinished tasks around the home. But lack of time, money and motivation means these jobs often left undone.
In addition, more than four in 10 people who have improved their homes, have spent more than expected in the last two years. In total they’ve spent an average of £3,226 more than they were planning to, as projects got out of hand.
Small fixes have ened up costing more than they were expecting, while a fifth have had to pay to have somethin redone after it went wrong.
Ribchester added: “Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, the best approach is to always plan thoroughly, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
“When in doubt, calling in a professional could save you more than just money – it could save you a massive headache later on.”