Now that the weather is finally starting to improve, people across the country will be heading into the gardens, up ladders, into cellars and under car bonnets. Summer is the season of DIY and home remodelling. Because of the economic situation, less people are moving, they are now choosing to stay put and improve. This could prove to be profitable, because although prices are stagnant now, you can be sure that in the near future they will go up again, and adding value will mean you'll get a greater return on your initial investment.

A good place to start is to add more space. Buying a bigger property will cost you a lot more than building and extension on your current home. Furthermore, you can make the most of a larger kitchen, bigger lounge or even a den or play area for the kids now before you sell in a few years' time.

Alternatively, if your budget is restricted, make better use of your current space. One large room will feel much more spacious and airy and ultimately more usable than two small rooms, so don't be afraid of knocking a few walls down. Although it is important to remember that this will affect your home insurance policy and you should always get professional advice before making any major structural changes to your home.

Kitchens and bathrooms are always key selling points so make yours special. Don't go for anything too drastic that will put people off and don't spend money on the units and parts people won't see. Invest in good quality worktops, handles and appliances. If you want to change the look of your kitchen but only have a small amount of cash to space, add a lick of paint to the walls, and change the cupboard doors. These inexpensive changes can have a dramatic effect.

The same goes for bathrooms. You don't need to change an all-white bathroom set, but add something special with new taps and replace that old shower curtain with a glass door. Headed towel rails are not only practical but for a rather inexpensive outlay of £50 you can add a touch of class to your standard bathroom features.

If you need some financial assistance making all these changes, don't rule out a loan. Because the base inflation rate is only 0.5% there are some pretty attractive loan offers out there at the moment. Santander currently offer one of the best rates on personal loans at just 8.9%, which easily beats the competition.