‘Significant difference’: Phil Spencer shares budget home improvements – ‘not expensive’

Despite inflation climbing to a new high, new research unveiled by Airtasker has found that one in five Britons still plan on moving home this year. Airtasker, a local services marketplace that connects people who need work done with skilled experts, has teamed up with property guru Phil Spencer to share top tips on how to prepare when moving home.

Airtasker’s 2022 Move Right Report identified budgeting as the most difficult part of moving, with over half of respondents (56 percent) having exceeded their budget by up to £1,000.

Of those who moved in the last year, homeowners overspent by £414 on average.

This is a huge £1.36billion which has been overspent on moving costs nationally.

With moving home already expensive, and house prices on the rise, renovating may be the last thing on a new homeowner’s mind.

READ MORE: Laundry: How to properly remove ‘yellow’ stains from pillows

“Think methodically when you write your checklist and don’t forget to include any small tasks as these often go a long way to help things run smoothly. I’d always recommend decluttering your space, getting rid of any unwanted items one month before your move so you’re not packing any unnecessary items on moving day.

“Notifying your suppliers and redirecting mail is another one to add to the checklist, and I’d recommend doing this one month before your move date. Notify your bank, utility providers and insurance company of your new address to ensure your mail doesn’t go missing.”

The property expert also recommended ordering packing boxes in a variety of sizes to help make the process easier.

He said: “My number one packing tip is to order your packing boxes in a range of different sizes, and if in doubt, order more boxes that you think you’ll need as you can always reuse them. Don’t forget to also buy packing tape and any proactive wrap for delicate items.

“Start packing in the least-used room, and make sure you label your boxes as you go (you can even take photos of the inside of boxes to help you find your contents quicker). Save time by leaving clothes on hangers and make sure you protect lids of liquids to avoid any spillage in transit.

“Keep daily essentials at the top of your boxes for easy access later, things like your phone charger or toothbrush.”