Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Category:
Home Improvements
According to new research from Direct Line, the equivalent of 4.9 million Brits have had a ‘free-loading house guest’ staying with them in the last twelve months. It was found that these ‘space invaders’, who overstayed their welcome on a rent-free basis, resided with their friends and family for an average period of eight weeks last year.
The research also revealed that space invaders caused in excess of £66 million worth of damage to their hosts’ homes in the way of broken furniture, heirlooms and antiques. What’s more, 22 percent of those who invited their house guests to stay with them reportedly ended up having an argument with their partner, whilst 10 percent argued with relatives over the matter.
Spokesperson at Direct Line, Matt Owen, commented: "For anyone who is going to have a house guest, it is probably best to lay down clear ground rules when they move in and to establish how long they intend to stay. Otherwise they could find themselves adding to the 180,000 householders who have had a free-loading house guest live in their home for over two years."
Direct Line’s findings have shown that 25 percent of space invaders are friends of their hosts, whilst one in ten are part of the ‘boomerang generation’ of adults who return home to stay with their parents. Furthermore, 10 percent of space invaders were found to be parents staying with their children.
On a regional basis, it was discovered that one in three Londoners have put up a house guest on a rent-free basis for a prolonged period. In contrast, at one in ten, those living in the Yorkshire and Humberside area are reportedly ‘least likely to open their houses’.
……………………………………………………………………………………………….....
Previous ‘space invaders’ who have since managed to get onto the property ladder could consider taking out a
secured loan to fund any home improvements that they need to finance. One of many finance options available, a secured loan for this purpose could allow borrowers to completely redecorate and refurbish their new property in accordance with their personal tastes and lifestyles. In addition, an overgrown garden could be landscaped to create that perfect outdoor space in which to enjoy the spring and summer months.
