Conservatories look more attractive as house prices fall again

Interest in home improvements such as conservatories and roof lights is expected to increase as a result of recent statistics from the Land Registry.

The data show that house prices fell again in January for the 17th month in a row, meaning the average UK property is now valued at just £156,753.

With many homeowners facing the threat of negative equity, some may counteract it by adding value to their home through a conservatory or other form of home improvement.

"The recession will deepen this year, triggering a further sharp rise in unemployment," predicted Capital Economics property economist Seema Shah.

"Accordingly, while the availability of mortgage credit may increase, weak buyer demand will prevent a housing market recovery from materialising."

The extent to which house prices have fallen in the past year can be seen in the fact that Januarys figures represent a 15.1 per cent drop in value year-on-year.

The Land Registry is a governmental organisation created in 1862 and is responsible for publicly recording interests in registered land in England and Wales.