With the imminent introduction of Home Information Packs (HIPs) in December, the Association of Home Information Pack Providers (AHIPP) believes that they could reduce the impact of stress considerably for both the consumer and the economy.

Mike Ockenden Director General, AHIPP said: “The high levels of transaction failure and the extended period of uncertainty between offer and exchange of contracts in the current home buying and selling process is one of the most stressful times that consumers will endure in their lifetime.

“Several studies have shown that the stress of moving home ranks only behind ill health, relationship breakdown and bereavement yet, incredibly we have simply learnt to accept this in the UK - unlike in most European and Western countries, where this is far from the norm.”

Moving home can undoubtedly be a stressful time for most homeowners, not only before but after. Many newly moved homeowners realise after moving in that their new home could do with a spot of home improvements. A secured personal loan could be one of the many options available to finance home improvements. A homeowner loan could help finance countless projects whether they be big or small. Making the most of newly acquired space for a growing family could mean a loft conversion or even a room extension, made payable by a home improvement loan. With a term to suit every homeowner, from 5 to 25 years, a secured loan could provide the funds needed to carry out the all important home improvement projects.