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Preparing to move into your new home is an exciting time. You’re probably eager to start redecorating and installing all of your possessions to make it really feel like your own. However, before you can begin this new chapter in your recently purchased property, it’s vital that you run through a safety checklist to make sure there are no potential risks that could affect the wellbeing of you and your family. 

To help you with this task, here are some suggestions to assist you as you assess your new home and make sure it’s definitely ready to be inhabited by you and your loved ones. 

Do A Thorough Room-By-Room Analysis

Once the previous owners have moved out, before you begin moving your own belongings into the home, do a walkthrough that covers every room, nook, and cranny in the property to look for any potential problems or missed repairs. Make sure all of the light switches work, look for mould and rising damp, and make sure the sellers haven’t taken any appliances that were supposed to be left behind. 

Double-Check Your Alarms

To ensure your new home is well-protected, it’s vital that you have fire alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and, perhaps, a burglar alarm. It’s also crucial that they are all working correctly. To make sure, why not call in a professional team to carry out essential checks and provide you with an electrical certificate? Testing your electrical system should always be a priority before moving into a new home to make sure there are no loose connections or faulty wiring, and you can get your alarms checked into the bargain. An experienced and reputable company such as Trade Facilities Services can carry out all of the relevant checks and provide you with your Electrical Safety Certificate.

Make Sure It’s Child-Safe (And Pet-Proof)

If you have children and pets, then you need to make sure there are no potential hazards that could affect their safety before they start living in the property. Check all of the windows and make sure there are no blinds with hanging cords, install child-safety locks on any cabinets and cupboards with hazardous products, and keep sharp objects safely stashed away. You should also carefully check the garden for any potential escape holes, and if there is a water feature, make sure it’s blocked off so young children can only access it under supervision.

Do A Deep Clean 

Once you are satisfied that the home is safe, it’s time to give it a thorough cleaning before you start bringing in your possessions. The pandemic has taught all of us the importance of scrupulous hygiene, and in a new home you also need to be aware of problems such as damp or mould; giving it a proper deep clean will make sure it’s as hygienic as can be before your kids start living there.

Set Up Your Utilities

Last but not least, it’s time to get all of your utilities hooked up so you can finally start a new life in your new property. Getting the water, electricity, gas and Wi-Fi all connected and working before you move in will make the transition so much easier and more convenient. Before you realise it, you will have settled comfortably into your new house and gradually added personal touches to make it feel like a home.

You’ve found the perfect home, and your offer has been accepted. Congratulations! You’re now ready to start the process of conveyancing.

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one person (the seller) to another (the buyer). The process can seem daunting, but this beginner’s conveyance guide will give you all the information you need to get started. Read on to learn more about what to expect during the process.

Who Handles Conveyancing? 

Most people instruct leading property conveyancing solicitors in London to handle their conveyancing. It’s important to note that in England & Wales, only solicitors and licenced conveyancers are allowed to carry out specific tasks, such as exchanging contracts. So, if you choose the DIY route, you should be aware of what you can and cannot do yourself.

If you decide to use a professional, shop around for quotes before making your decision. Read the fine print and ensure you understand the quote’s terms and conditions before instructing someone to act on your behalf.

The Roles of the Conveyancer

• Prepare and review the contract of sale 
• Lodge necessary documentation 
• Advise on stamp duty and other government charges 
• Conduct searches 
• Attend to settlement 
• Exchange contracts 
• Prepare the transfer documents 

Conveyancers can also assist with the following: 

• Mortgages 
• Leased properties 
• House building contracts 
• Restrictive covenants 
• Easements

The Conveyancing Process

The conveyancing process can be divided into two parts: the pre-contract stage and the post-contract stage.

The pre-contract stage refers to all the legal work that must be done before the contract is signed. This includes title searches, local authority searches, and arranging for a mortgage (if you’re taking out a loan to finance the purchase).

The post-contract stage is when the contract has been signed, and all parties are ready to go ahead with the sale. This stage can be further divided into two parts: pre-completion and post-completion. Pre-completion refers to everything that needs to happen between signing the contract and completing the sale (i.e., exchanging keys and moving in). Post-completion is everything that happens after you move into your new home, like registering the transfer of ownership at the Land Registry.

Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect during the conveyancing process. 

Entering Into a Contract 

The first step in the conveyancing process is to enter into a contract with the seller. This contract will set out all the terms and conditions of the sale, including the purchase price, settlement date, and any special conditions that may apply. You must read and understand all of the terms of the contract before signing it. 

Conducting Searches 

Once you have signed the contract, your conveyancer will begin conducting searches on the property. These searches will reveal any information that could potentially impact your decision to purchase the property, such as zoning changes or unpaid rates. 

Exchanging Contracts

Once all the searches have been conducted, and you are happy to proceed, your conveyancer will organize for the exchange of contracts. This formal legal agreement between you and the seller binds both parties to the sale. A deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price) is usually paid at this stage. 

Completing the Sale 

After the contracts have been exchanged, the sale is considered “unconditional.” This means that both you and the seller are committed to going ahead with the sale and that all of the conditions of the contract have been met. 

At this point, your conveyancer will organize for settlement to take place. This is when the purchase price balance is paid, and you receive the keys to your new home. 

Post-Completion

There are a few final tasks that need to be completed. Your conveyancer will prepare the transfer documents and lodge them with the Land Registry. They will also pay any stamp duty that is due on the property. 

 Once these tasks have been completed, the conveyancing process is officially finished, and you are the property’s new owner!

Conclusion

The conveyancing process can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. If you instruct a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the process for you, they will take care of everything. You need to make sure that you understand the contract, conduct searches, and exchange contracts. The rest will be taken care of by your conveyancer. 

A hot tub is a large, round tub that is filled with hot water. People use hot tubs for relaxation and to socialize. They often have jetted areas that massage the body. Hot tubs are typically made of acrylic or fibreglass and are powered by electricity or natural gas. Some hot tubs also have features like lights, speakers, and waterfalls. Hot tubs can be used indoors or outdoors. Most people use them in their backyard, but some people have them inside their homes in a special room called a sunroom. Hot tubs require regular maintenance to keep the water clean and safe to use.

Looking for the perfect hot tub for your home? This quick guide to the different sizes and options of hot tubs will make it easy for you to find the right one. Whether you’re looking for a small spa for 2 people or a large spa that can accommodate 6-8, we’ve got you covered! So, what are you waiting for? Get started today!

What Is The Difference Between Standard And Metric Sizes Of Hot Tubs

Standard tubs are typically six feet in diameter and hold 250-300 gallons of water, whereas metric tubs are slightly larger, with diameters of around 1.8 meters and a capacity for 500-800 litres of water. The size difference is due to the different measurement systems used in the U.S. and Europe; a standard tub is six feet in diameter, while a metric tub is 1.8 meters in diameter. The capacity difference is more significant, with standard tubs able to hold 250-300 gallons (946-1136 litres) of water, compared to the 500-800 litre (180-284 gallon) capacity of metric tubs. This means that metric tubs can comfortably accommodate more people (up to 10 adults), while standard tubs are better suited for smaller groups (4-6 people). When choosing a hot tub, it is important to consider the size and capacity that will best suit your needs.

The Different Dimensions Of A Hot Tub

A hot tub is more than just a large tub of water. It is a luxurious spa experience that can be enjoyed in the privacy of your own home. When shopping for a hot tub, you will need to consider the different dimensions to ensure that it will fit in the desired location. Most hot tubs are designed to seat six to eight people, so you will need to have enough space to accommodate both the tub and its occupants. In addition, you will need to think about the height of the tub. Some hot tub models are designed to be semi-inground, while others are above-ground. You will also need to consider the shape of the tub. Round hot tubs are the most common, but rectangular and square models are also available. By considering all of these factors, you can find the perfect hot tub for your home.

What Are The Different Sizes Of Hot Tubs And Their Dimensions

When most people think of hot tubs, they envision a small, personal unit that can be installed indoors or out. While this size of spa is certainly popular, there are actually several different sizes of hot tubs on the market, each with its own unique benefits. The different sizes of a hot tube are categorized into three categories namely; The Small Hot Tubs: 2-4 people that measure 5’4” – 7” (Length) x 5’4” – 6’8” (Width) x 29” – 35” (Height), Medium Hot Tubs: 5-6 people that measure 6’6” – 7’9” (Length) x 6’4” – 7’9” (Width) x 33” – 38.5” (Height), and the Large Hot Tubs: 7+ people that measure 7’ – 9” (Length) x 7’ – 9’2” (Width) x 36” – 38” (Height). They all have different suitability for the user. The most common hot tub for the family is the 5-seater hot tub, a medium category hot tub.

Swimming pools can also be classified as hot tubs, although they don’t typically include all of the features that are found in standard units. Regardless of size or shape, all hot tubs provide a relaxing environment where individuals can unwind and de-stress.

How To Choose The Perfect Size For Your Needs

Trying to figure out what size is best for you? Here are a few things to keep in mind. First, think about how you’ll be using the space. Will it be for entertaining? Then you’ll want enough room for a dining table and chairs, as well as some extra space, to move around. If you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind, a smaller size may be all you need. Second, take into account the climate. A cooler climate means you can get away with a smaller size since you won’t be spending as much time outdoors. But if you live in a warmer climate, or plan to use your outdoor space year-round, a larger-sized hot tub will give you more options for furniture and activities. Third, consider your budget. Obviously, a larger size will cost more money upfront. But it may also save you money in the long run, since you won’t have to buy as much furniture or make as many changes later on. So think carefully about your needs before making a decision – the perfect size is out there waiting for you!

In Conclusion: 

So, what is the perfect size for you and your needs? That answer will depend on a variety of factors including how many people you want to accommodate, how much space you have available, and how much money you want to spend. But hopefully, this article has given you a better understanding of the different dimensions and sizes of hot tubs so that you can make an informed decision when it comes time to purchase one.

General house cleaning is always a drag. Getting started is more challenging when you don’t know where to begin. Do you need to vacuum or dust first? Should you tackle one room at a time? Having a plan is the way to go for more efficient cleaning.

If you are looking for ways to improve your cleaning technique and be proactive, we’re here to help. Here are some tips and tricks to get you started and clean your home in no time.

• Get Rid of the Clutter

First, you should always take out the clutter in every room. It’s even easier if you sort everything out. Make a pile of items for trash, donation, or to put away. This way, you eliminate unnecessary items and make your home clutter-free.

• Clean Your Entire House in One Go

If you want to be well organised, the best way to clean your house is to choose one task like vacuuming and do it in all the rooms, then start with a new chore. Cleaning seems repetitive and boring if you do one room at a time and then move to the next. Repeating the same cycle breaks the workflow, and you will start cleaning less and less in each room.

• Gather All Your Tools in One Place

A straightforward way to get started is to have all your cleaning supplies in one place. So, instead of running around the whole house looking for that mop or bucket, please place them in one place so you know where you need to go.

It’s more time efficient, and you won’t forget specific cleaning duties like dusting, mopping, etc. You can get products from VIOA for thorough cleaning if you own a commercial or healthcare premise. You will efficiently eliminate viruses and bacteria one room at a time.

• Dust Then Vacuum

It’s always better to dust first and then vacuum because all the dust might spread on the floor. If you have ceiling fans, turn them off, then start brushing. Don’t forget about picture frames, as these can collect plenty of dust.

It’s also wise to change your sheets before you start vacuuming. Even if it’s not visible, sheets do have dust on them. Once you’ve cleaned all the dust in the whole house, it’s safe to use the vacuum.

• Wipe Mirrors

When you finish vacuuming, it’s time to get that damp microfiber and dry cloth to wipe all the mirrors and glass surfaces. Microfiber cloths are better than regular ones because they absorb more and are more resistant. You will also use less water and chemicals and do twice as much as traditional rags.

The working day has overwhelmingly changed for so many people since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. From a recent survey conducted by the Office of National Statistics in January 2022, 36% of working adults reported working from home at least once in the last seven days.

For remote or hybrid workers, productivity is essential and being required to stay online and in touch with fellow colleagues is crucial. Having a reliable, fast broadband connection isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity.

Is my broadband fast enough for working from home?

If your work consists of modest online tasks such as web browsing or emailing you might be able to get by on a download speed of 10Mbps (the average ADSL speed). But if you’re sharing your connection with others at home or using your broadband for more data-intensive reasons, such as downloading large files, video conferencing or streaming high-definition video, you might find this a struggle.

A fibre connection of 30Mbps+ is the recommended minimum speed requirement for anyone setting up a new broadband contract. Plenty of different internet providers offer these entry-level deals at an affordable price.

If you’re unsure how fast your current connection is, or if you suspect your broadband isn’t up to scratch, you can run a speed test. If you find your speed is much slower than advertised, and you’re not still tied into a contract, it may be time to look at getting an upgrade.

Switching broadband isn’t a difficult task. It’s quick and easy to do and makes sure you’re never paying over the odds for a service that’s no longer appropriate for your needs.

How do I upgrade my broadband?

If you’re looking to upgrade your broadband, you may find there are faster or more appropriate deals available from your current provider. This would be the easiest option as it wouldn’t involve any switchover date and so there would be no disruption to your working day.

But it’s also worth using a broadband comparison service, such as broadband.co.uk to see the other options available to you. Because the broadband market is a competitive one, you’re most likely to save money by switching providers (though you’ll need to be out of contract to avoid any unwanted cancellation fees).

If I want to upgrade my broadband, will my employer cover the cost?

Claiming expenses on your broadband will be down to your individual employer. Some workplaces have started to offer help with the cost of working from home or pay a set-up bonus as a work perk, but it’s not guaranteed. You may also be able to claim a proportion of your internet and phone use as a business expense for tax purposes. 

I can’t get the Wi-Fi to reach my home office, what are my options?

If you’re struggling to get a reliable speed in your home office, it may be that your Wi-Fi network needs some attention. There are several ways to try and fix this issue:

Using a Wi-Fi booster – A cheap and easy fix but you may find you don’t get much of a performance enhancement. If you work in a garden office, you will also have to consider purchasing an outdoor-rated device.

Installing Mesh Wi-Fi – A more reliable and effective way to distribute the Wi-Fi signal around your home, but also potentially expensive. Again, you would need to pay for outdoor-rated hardware if you are trying to improve speeds away from your main building.

Powerline Networking – This is an easy way to create a wired network, but the results aren’t always reliable. It’s unlikely to work if your office is on a separate power circuit.

Wired network – An Ethernet network is a very fast and trustworthy option, but you’ll need to run cables to your office. If they’re outside, these cables will have to be armoured for protection. If you’re a confident DIYer it’s possible to achieve this yourself but you may find it easier to hire a professional.

Do I need a broadband backup?

Broadband outages aren’t too common, but when it hits you out of the blue it can be a frustrating experience. A recent report found in the last 12 months since June 2022, nearly 11 million people were affected by an internet outage lasting longer than three hours.

To avoid your working day being completely disrupted it’s worth thinking about a back-up strategy. Get familiar with your mobile phone and learn how to use your device’s hotspot tethering features. If you have a reasonable data allowance on your mobile plan, this should allow you to carry out basic tasks. Failing that, take the time to scout out nearby coffee shops or libraries with free Wi-Fi for emergencies.

For extra peace of mind, some providers now offer deals with bundled broadband back-up included. 

Alternatively, you can purchase a fall-back mobile broadband dongle. This will come at an extra cost, as you might have to pay an additional monthly contract for a SIM or top up with Pay-As-You-Go credit. And if you choose PAYG, be prepared to keep having to add credit every so often to keep the SIM act

Your home windows play a major part in your property’s comfort levels and energy performance. If your windows are outdated or there’s sufficient damage, they can’t do these things effectively. When this occurs, it’s time to consider replacing them. 

Here are several warning signs to look out for which could suggest your windows are past their prime and are in need of replacement. 

Visible Damage

One of the obvious warning signs that it’s time to replace your windows is if there is visible damage. When you have a damaged window, there’s more chance of it breaking completely. Should this happen, a broken window leaves your property open to more serious damage such as mould, mildew, and pests. What’s more, it makes it easier for intruders to enter your home. If there is any visible damage, getting your windows replaced sooner rather than later is advised.

Condensation is Forming

If you spot condensation on the inside of a window, this normally means they’re leaking air or your property is humid. Should there be condensation between the panes of your double-glazed windows, this indicates that the air-tight seal has failed. Over time, condensation can build up and wreak havoc on your windows. Therefore, now is the time to consider replacing them. VEKA can help you with this. They can help you choose the perfect windows to match your style and give your home the makeover it deserves.

You Notice a Draught 

Draughts are a problem for a number of reasons. During the winter months especially, you want to return home to a warm and cosy home. If air is seeping into your home, you may be cranking up your central heating to the max. To check if you have a draught coming in, close your windows and lock them before holding your hand at the bottom of them. If you feel air coming in, this signals you have a draught. There are draught-proofing tips you can use to rectify this problem.

You Hear a Lot of Outdoor Noise

When you’re nice and settled on the sofa, the last thing you want is to hear what the neighbours are doing. If you find you can hear outdoor noises even with the windows shut, this is a sign to get them replaced. Those who have single glazed windows should look into double glazing immediately. 

Energy Bills Are Higher

As your energy bills come through the post, you may be amazed at how much you’re paying out. While we’re fully aware of how our energy bills have spiked in recent months, if you find they’re even higher than they should be, this could be down to the condition of your windows. As mentioned, draughts may result in you putting the heating on more. Over time, this can prove incredibly costly. To save money on your energy bills, replacing your windows with energy-efficient counterparts is the answer.

If you resonate with any of the signs above, it’s time to take action. You deserve to feel right at home in your own property. However, if there is a constant chill or you’re hearing loud sounds from outside, you’ll have great difficulty switching off. Rather than burying your head in the sand, replacing your windows with brand new ones will do the trick and allow you to get the most out of your property.

Selling a house is not easy, especially if you want a good profit. You need to study the real estate market, plan carefully, set a strict budget, and ensure the property is ready for viewing. Our guide will help you reach the highest possible selling price and help you plan your project with ease.

Keep An Eye On The Market

When selling a house, it is important to watch what is happening in the real estate market. Study what other properties look like, what condition they are in and for which price they are being sold. Watch how similar properties are doing over time and pay attention to any price changes within weeks and months. You can also try to reach out to the online community of renovators and ask about their experiences. They might give you some inspiration and insight into what should be included in your renovation and when would be the best time to put your property on the market.

Budget And Careful Planning Come Hand In Hand

If you plan to sell your home after renovations and want a sizeable profit, then you need to have a strict budget. Going over budget and spending more than you intended could defeat the purpose of such a sale. Therefore, you must plan carefully. Request quotes from the renovation companies and contractors, and find out how much the material costs. You also need to plan the project timeline carefully so the property can be ready for viewing and go to the market at the right time.

Focus On Renovations That Really Need To Be Done

Avoiding unnecessary renovations could boost your budget significantly. Perhaps only cosmetic adjustments would be enough for your property. Then you would be able to invest money where they are needed and maximise your profit. However, if you have a large budget, you can consider a full remodel in order to sell the property for the highest price possible. Discuss with experts what would be the best for your property and conduct a site survey to steer clear of any bad surprises along the way.

Get Rid Of Renovation Clutter

Cleaning is integral to any renovation project. Companies like Skip Supply Network can help you remove all the renovation waste from the site to get your property ready for the market. Their skips of various sizes and other services will ensure that you have a way of disposing of any of the clutter. Hiring a skip will help save you work, and you will be able to prepare the property for viewings easily.

Stage The House To Attract Potential Buyers

If you have any older furniture left or want to put it to use before donation, staging your newly renovated house could boost your selling chances. With furniture in place, potential buyers will be able to picture what it would be like to live in the house. You will make the place look more homely, and buyers will be able to imagine how their furniture would fit in better. If you have no furniture and interior accessories left, consider renting a couple of pieces. The price would definitely come back to you within the profit you make.

Find out the age of your home before you decide on a style

If you’re planning to redecorate your home, you might want to consider the age of your house first. Although paint is a great way to spruce up your house’s appearance, it’s essential to consider the style of your home before you get started. The style you choose should complement the age of your home and the surrounding neighbourhood, or it could clash and look awkward. If you know your house style, you can find the style and colours to match your home perfectly. Often, homes work well if they are in keeping with the era in which they were built – but we don’t mean you need to add avocado bathrooms to your 1970s build! Instead, try to nod in the direction of the era by not avoiding it altogether.

If you’re not sure what style your home has, take a stroll around the neighbourhood, and take note of the homes that look similar to yours. You might be surprised at how easy it is to see the differences in architectural styles. You can also search online for photos of homes in your area and see if you can find one that looks similar.

Creating a rustic, country feel in your home

Once upon a time, we all dreamed of a chocolate box cottage with a picket fence and roses in the front garden (well, we did anyway). For those homeowners who have an older or more traditional home, it is worth taking a look at creating a rustic, country feel in your rooms that bring out the original features. Many cottages and older homes have fireplaces. Rather than ripping this out to make way for a modern log burner, why not make a fireplace feature out of the space by exposing the brickwork and adding some decorative logs?

Older, traditional homes are generally much softer to the eye than their modern counterparts. Simple lines, cosier furniture, and personal mementoes occupy these homes, so if you have many beautiful family photos, trinkets handed down through generations or old style dressers you cannot part with, these will come in handy for your rustic home look.

Bring the modern and contemporary vibe into your rooms

If you are lucky enough to have bought a new build or built your house from the ground up, you may wonder how to bring a modern and contemporary look and feel into your exterior and interior designs. Outdoor cladding wood is a brilliant material to cover the exterior of your home for a number of reasons. Thanks to its insulation properties, it’s stylish, aesthetically pleasing, and could even reduce your energy bills.

For the interior of your home, modern designs are often made up of sleek lines and minimalistic presentation, so have a think about some clever storage that melts into the background. Large mirrors placed carefully will bounce the natural light around your rooms, and beautiful paintings are often the centre of attraction. Keep your home as minimalistic in floor and wall colour as possible and add touches of colour with your photos and plant decoration for an ultra-modern look.