The refurbishment to date

When we moved into our house it had been occupied by the previous owner for 30 years. In that time in had become very dated and tired. In the last 9 months we have (or more to the point in the main our builders have);

• Replaced most of the windows with white wooden windows. The windows have iron monkey tail handles and stays but are double glazed.

• The front of the house has been re-rendered and also one of the chimney stacks which extends down the side of the house.

• Had a new boiler installed.

• Had the electrics updated.

• Had an ensuite installed including building a stud wall to accomodate it.

• Combined the toilet, bathroom and some landing space to make a large family bathroom.

• Taken sinks out of the bedrooms and replastered most of the bedroom walls. New carpets and wallpaper or paint in these rooms.

• The hall stairs and landing have been stripped of paper . The ceiling and some walls have been replastered. It is all awaiting painting with maybe a feature wall of paper.

It doesn't sound much when you say it quickly but it has been very dusty and we are glad that for the moment the builders have gone. We are busy doing the decorating and I have bought some furniture that is more in keeping with the house. Most of the "new" furniture is from Ebay so has cost very little and I have been busy painting it. Admittedly I've been mainly buying rather than painting but we'll get there.