Credit crunch an excuse to improve

The economic downturn should not stop homeowners investing in their property, according to a life advice website.

With the country in recession and people taking more care over outgoings than ever before, now may not seem like the best time to invest in a home improvement such as a conservatory or dining room makeover.

But Life123.com suggests that savvy homeowners should take advantage of the dip in the market by improving before it recovers.

"A money crunch shouldnt mean putting the kibosh on home and garden upkeep," the company said.

"In fact, procrastinating on cleaning, decorating, improving or maintaining your home and garden can be more expensive ultimately."

As material prices have dropped and competition between home improvement companies has increased, it may also be a good time to grab a bargain through "long-term investments rather than insignificant indulgences".

It was recently claimed that dinner parties are making a comeback in the UK as more people look to use the atmosphere of their kitchen, dining room or conservatory to entertain guests.