Preparing meals and home-baking are just two activities that older people may enjoy but how can you ensure that the kitchen remains a safe space for them to continue to do these activities?

1. Invest in appropriate kitchen aids

When the smallest, essential tasks become impossible for someone to do, the impact on their life can be huge. Being unable to open jars, for example, means that the many foods they enjoy, such as jams and other condiments, are no longer part of their diet.

Many kitchen aids can help people use their kitchen better, from inexpensive pieces of equipment that promote grip to utensils that are adapted for better use.

2. Rearrange the kitchen for easier access

Rearranging what is kept in which cupboards can help a great deal in helping stay independent in the kitchen.

For example, rearrange cupboards so that frequently used items are within easy reach. If possible, place lighter items in wall cupboards and heavier items in base cupboards.

Move other pieces of furniture that are in the kitchen into another room, if they are not being used and are cluttering the space.

Streamline kitchen equipment too, especially if there are cupboards of items that are no longer being used. Creating space so that there is more room to be able to manoeuvre items, and move around themselves, can be a great help to maintain independence in the kitchen.

3. Share roles and responsibilities in the kitchen

Sharing roles and responsibilities means that everyone can still enjoy some aspects of being in the kitchen, whether this is preparing easier meals or enjoying baking with some help.

For example, you could part-prepare some meals for an elderly person, which means they could complete the meal at a time that suits them. They may also be able to load the dishwasher, for example, but emptying it and moving around the kitchen to do so could be problematic.

Work through what they can do, what things they need help with and what you can do to make tasks in the kitchen easier for them. Of course, there is nothing better than cooking and baking together either, trying new recipes and cuisines.

4. Adapt the kitchen design

If budget allows, adapting the kitchen so that it is safer and more accessible would be the ultimate means by which older people can continue to use the area safely and stay independent. This could mean lowering worktops or replacing the tap with an easy-to-use mixer tap, as well as other adaptations.

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As much as we should all be living in the moment more, the fact remains that there may come a time in later life that we need care and may have to move home. Planning for the future can provide you with the peace of mind that you will have the quality of life you deserve when you need to rely on others. A care home might seem like the most popular choice, or even the only choice, but realistically, there are quite a few reasons to avoid care homes if you can. And there are better alternatives that can ensure better physical and mental health for elderly people.

This article will, hopefully, highlight the reasons why a care home is not always the best options and where to find alternatives.

So let’s look at the downsides of residential care home…

Most People Don’t Want To Go Into A Care Home

A study by The Live-in Care Hub found that a huge 97% of people would rather avoid a care home if they become unwell or unable to care for themselves. Let’s be honest, it isn’t the ideal scenario for most of us to have to move into a care home in later life. And it shouldn’t feel like something we have to do when we need elderly care.

Your Physical Health Can Deteriorate

A British Medical Journal study  showed that those in care homes are 3 times more likely to fall than those who have live-in care at home. Worse still, those who do fall are 10 times more likely to sustain a serious injury as a result. This is unfortunately just one example when it comes to physical health and increased risks in care homes.

Your Emotional Wellbeing Is More At Risk

Evidence shows that emotionally those in care homes can face numerous challenges. Because of how the residential care system works, a major issue is that carers in care home simply do not have enough time to spend with individual residents. In addition, a lack of opportunities to take trips out of the residential care facility, a lack of control over the environment and limited choice about the food available, plus lack of stimulation can all contribute to issues with emotional and mental health.

Dementia Care Limitations

Statistics from NICE  show over two thirds of those in care homes have dementia, and yet sadly, the care provided is not person-centred. This can decrease quality of life, cause the person to be depressed and might even cause quicker physical deterioration.

Leaving Behind a Partner Or a Pet

Sadly, most care homes do not allow pets to live with their resident owners, which can mean a heart-breaking separation from your furry friend at a time you likely need their love the most. In some scenarios, there aren’t any spaces for both husband and wife to be together, which can mean you have to be separated from your spouse.

Care Homes Are Not The Only Option

Most importantly, it is vital you understand that if you don’t want to go into a care home you don’t have to – they are not the only option for later life. There are many options including: sheltered accommodation, day care and home care. Home care in particular is a great option because it means that your needs are catered for on a one-to-one basis. Companionship, nutritional needs, physical needs, specialist needs and personal care are all provided by a trained, professional carer in your own home. And for as many hours as you need. In addition, help with pet care, home maintenance, running errands and medication schedules can all form part of your care package. There’s no need to leave your partner or pet or the place you call home. In fact, the cost of home care has been shown to be comparable to care home costs.

If you’re interested in avoiding a care home in the future, then perhaps it is a good idea to start looking into alternatives now. The more informed you are, the more likely you are able to make a great decision for your future care needs.

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Natural stone has been used for flooring for thousands of years in public buildings, places of worship, royal residences and grand houses because of its beauty and durability. Typical examples of natural stone are limestone, granite, slate and marble and they are all carved out of rock that has been quarried. Quarrying and then carving the stone is a labour-intensive process that for thousands of years was done by hand. More recently technological advances have meant that the process can be mechanised with the use of advanced tools and the consequence of that is that natural stone tiles have become substantially more affordable. Although there are still traditional craftsmen who cut and polish the stone by hand.

Natural stone quarries, both ancient and modern, exist in many parts of the world from Europe to India, Asia and North America.

How are Natural Stone Tiles Made?

Large sections of rock are first cut from the earth using either explosives or diamond cutting equipment, depending on the type and hardness of the rock and its physical location. These large blocks of rock are then cut into smaller slabs of varying thickness using high-speed saws and the slabs are polished by machines to give different textural surfaces from rustic to ultra-smooth. Each slab is then cut into a range of smaller sizes suitable for wall and floor tiles using special water-cooled saws and given a final polish before being ready for the consumer.

Why Choose Natural Stone?

Natural stone tiles come in a huge range of styles, colours and finishes from sleek, contemporary limestone to classic marble or rustic slate so can suit any type of interior. They are both beautiful and unique because, as a natural material, no two tiles will be identical so your room can have an identity all of its own. The finish is particularly important because it can create a very different look even with the same stone from the same quarry.

Typical Natural Stone Types Used For Tiles

Travertine is a type of limestone with a honeycomb structure and a lot of surface indentations. These dents can be filled with resin for a smooth surface or left unfilled for a textured surface. Colours range from pale creams to dark reddish browns.

Limestone is formed when seashells settle in sediment, which over time hardens to sedimentary rock so fossilised shells are a typical feature. Colours range from cream to golden brown.

Granite is an igneous rock so is a very hard stone making it extremely durable; it comes in an enormous range of rich colours and is commonly used in the home for kitchen worktops as well as flooring.

Marble is familiar to all of us from the ancient classical buildings of Rome and Greece and the many famous Italian sculptures. It comes in a variety of different colours typically with contrasting veining but the darker marbles are not suitable for wet areas because of their porosity.

Slate is composed of clay, quartz and shale and has a rustic appearance due to its natural layered look. Because it is water-resistant it is frequently used for floor tiles but is also used for roof tiles and patio tiles.

Natural Stone Finishes

Polished for a glossy shine which may need regular maintenance to preserve the shine.

Honed for a matt or satin finish which is more resistant to scratching and needs little maintenance.

Acid-washed for an antique look which reveals the crystal structure within the stone and is highly scratch-resistant..

Flamed for a rough texture which is perfect where a non-slip surface is required – created by using a blowtorch on the stone until the surface crystals explode.

Tumbled for a smooth but slightly pitted surface with uneven edges for a raw, natural finish typically used for small tiles and decorative border tiles.

Brushed for a naturally worn look suitable for restoration work in old buildings– created by brushing the tile surface wil metal brushes.

Tile manufacturers now produce porcelain and ceramic tiles with a natural stone effect and also manufactured stone tiles made from natural stone chips suspended in cement or resin but even the best quality porcelain floor tiles can’t quite beat the unique look and feel of natural stone floor tiles.

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Where we live earlier in life is all about raising a family, being connected to a community or being based near work. When we get older, it is more about enjoying the space, and feeling safe within that space. One of the most common things that we do when we age in regards to property, is downsize. It may have been a decision you always hoped to make. Maybe you always dreamed of living closer to the sea or open countryside, but there may actually be some signs that you need to consider downsizing sooner rather than later: Let’s have a look at what they might be…

1. You’re Struggling To Maintain The Whole Home

If the whole home is too much for you to keep clean or tidy, then that is a clear sign that a smaller property would be easier for you to manage.

2. The Garden Is Too Much

If the garden is unreachable to you because of a physical condition like arthritis, which millions of people suffer from, or it is too hard to maintain (or both) a property with a smaller garden could be a really good idea.

3. You’re Based In One Or Two Rooms

If you are living out of one or two rooms for warmth, because it is easier to manage, or because you simply do not need the rest of the place, then it may be that you really don’t need a property of that size any more.

4. The Place Feels Huge

Sometimes the house can start to feel bigger and bigger, the older we get. Whether it is through kids growing up and leaving, through a different way of life or just because we no longer need such a big property. A house should feel secure and big enough, not far too big and empty.

5. You Would Like Some More Disposable Income

Downsizing is an easy way to release some cash for a holiday, to give some early inheritance to your children, or to pay for expert home care services to help you manage better..

6. You’re Now Living Alone

If your partner has passed away, your pet has passed away or for any other reason you’re alone in a property you once shared, it might be that this property doesn’t suit your needs now.

7. You Want To Move Closer To Family

Sometimes we need to move home because we want to be closer to loved ones. In later life it makes sense to move to a smaller home during this process, for practical reasons.

8. It Is Hard Getting Around The House

Perhaps you find it hard getting around the home because of its size and layout. This can be exhausting and cause you to use up energy you don’t have – if you downsize you could avoid that.

9. The House Is No Longer Safe For You

Maybe what were once quirks of the property like steps, low ceilings, uneven flooring and tight corridors are now causing safety issues like trip hazards. Although you could adjust the property to your needs, the practical choice is to sell-up and move into a house that is better suited to your needs.

10. You’d Like A More Compact Arrangement

When considering a downsize it may be that you would like a new property that suits your needs these days. Maybe you’d love a little bungalow in a sheltered community where you can make new friends. Perhaps you’d love a home all on one floor for convenience. Wanting a more compact arrangement is normal as you age, and it’s much better to make a move when you’re able to, rather than rushing it in an emergency.

If you are thinking about downsizing, it might be time to talk to your friends and family about it. Taking advice from a financial advisor is a good idea first, as well as checking that you don’t need the extra room for mobility devices like wheelchairs, or if you are considering live-in care for help with personal care. The more information you can bet, the more informed your decision about downsizing will be.

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London is the beating heart of England, and it never fails to draw people to it with its exceptional culture, fantastic career opportunities, arts and vibrant energy. However, it is also an incredibly expensive city to live in, especially as the cost of living keeps soaring.

Even before the financial crisis started, London was costly. It sits at around £700 a month for a room rental in central London, and around £850 a week to rent a full house. Expensive food, cost of eating out, transport – it was always expensive.

Now, prices have soared more. Some household products are over 100% more expensive than they were a year ago, and utility bills are becoming almost unmanageable, even for those in high paying jobs.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. There are some easy hacks to help you make the most of your life in London, even with all the financial hurdles.

From finding accommodation that is more affordable, to exploring the treasures of the city for free, we have you covered. Let’s take a closer look at all the ways you can live in London for less:

Finding Affordable Accommodation

Living in London often means facing the daunting challenge of navigating the city’s housing market. The rent and property prices make anybody’s eyes water, but there are some ways to make it work financially.

One way is to simply accept you will need to live in a smaller space. A cosy sanctuary in the city can be comfortable and practical.

It’s more able to work if you utilise facilities like local self storage. Self storage in London is readily available and is incredibly affordable. By using it for your seasonal items and larger items, you can be more comfortable in a compact space, and save money as a result.

It is also worth considering flat shares and house shares too, as they can give you the ability to live in a really good location at an affordable price, as well as offering a ready-made friendship group.

Lastly, consider areas that have cheaper rent prices. Croydon, Redbridge and Waltham Forest, Barking, Dagenham and Havering, Bexley and Greenwich and Harrow and Hillingdon all have the lowest average rent in London.

Getting Around London For Less

Using London transport can be really expensive, but there are ways to save. One way is to get an Oyster card, which can save you money if you use The Tube and buses every day.

It could also be a great idea to cycle, but be aware that it can be hairy cycling in the city, so you need to be well aware of how to cycle on roads well, and how to navigate busy traffic as you cycle. What some people do is cycle to a bicycle parking station and then walk to their location, cutting out the most chaotic part of the cycling where all the traffic is.

Alternatively there is also the opportunity to walk more in general, which is free, healthy and quite enjoyable too if you listen to a podcast or take more scenic routes to your location.

Budget-Friendly Dining In London

Apps like OLIO and Too Good To Go are incredible ways to get free or low priced food. These apps have been designed to help combat food waste, and give you the chance to enjoy all kinds of amazing foods at a really low cost.

You can also check out restaurant dining offers and promotions which could be; 2-4-1 deals, discount nights and meal deal options.

Lastly, get better at cooking at home. Many people struggle to afford to eat out at the moment, and cooking at home is essential for many to eat well without it costing lots of money. Learning to cook means you can enjoy better food at home.

Even better, consider splitting bulk food costs with flat mates and having a cooking rota. This way you get to try lots of different types of foods, get fed without having to cook every night, and you can save money.

Explore London On The Cheap

London has so many amazing free places to visit, which is great news for your purse. Highlights include the Natural History Museum, the Saatchi Gallery and The British Museum. Green spaces like Regents Park are also wonderful to spend time in.

If you have free time, it is also good to wander around without a plan, so you can discover new, amazing places that aren’t as well known. Wandering around Brick Lane is particularly fun because of all the regularly changing street art.

Day Trips From London

You can expand your horizons by enjoying a day trip outside of London for the cost of train tickets, or petrol. The New Forest is only 30 minutes on the train from Waterloo and about two hours by car. There are lots of grazing animals, amazing flora and fauna and wonderful walks to enjoy.

Dungeness is another great day out, just 90 minutes from St Pancras (train and bus combined) or two hours by car and you can enjoy a beautiful beach, nature reserve trails and pubs for lunch if you do have a bit of cash for a nibble.

Style On A Budget

You can feel a little bit out of place in London without the same fashion budget as other people. The good news is that you can wear any style in London and look cool, because there is such fashion diversity in the city. This includes wearing second hand threads you might have found in charity shops, at car boot sales and even on Vinted. You can look amazing on a budget, you just have to spend a bit of time seeking out those bargains.

You Can Master The Art Of Thrifty Living In London

Living in London without lots of money is possible. Does it take more time and energy to thrive living in London on the cheap? Absolutely. But the result of your efforts mean you get to enjoy this vast, vibrant, bustling capital without having to have a massive budget. Your adventure can continue as you embrace a thrifty life in London, making memories that will last a lifetime.

The post Easy Hacks For Living In London on a Tight Budget appeared first on Twits Guides.

Around 60% of people who live in London felt found working there stressful before Covid-19. Now, that amount has increased to 7 in 10 Londoners, who feel even more stressed working in this bustling city. The good thing is, that whilst London can be very stressful, it also provides exceptional access to escape its concrete scenes when you need to. Cycle routes, trains, a great road system – they can all take you away to somewhere different for the day, so you can recharge before returning back to the vibrancy of the city.

If you feel like you want to get away from London for the day, and you want some inspiration, here are 10 ways to escape the noise of London for a day:

1.   Camber Sands

Camber Sands is accessible from London in around 90 minutes, which is trains to Rye in 60 minutes, and then a bus to the beachfront from the station which is around half an hour depending on the time of year you visit.

One of the big draws of Camber Sands is the castle, which is about a half hour walk from the train station, and it is free to explore from the outside. There are also tours you can book onto that enable you to explore the interior, for a fee.

There is also a large watersports centre in Rye, which is a lot of fun for those who are more adventurous. Or, you can enjoy the beach itself, and an amble around the town for a bite to eat and a look around the shops.

2.   The Cotswolds

If you want a truly English chocolate box area to explore, then The Cotswolds is the location for you, and takes about an hour and forty minutes on the train to Moreton-In-Marsh. Fans of the movie ‘The Holiday’ will absolutely love exploring the stunning villages and natural beauty of the area, complete with stone cottages galore. Best enjoyed in winter for that true Christmas card magic.

3.   Stonehenge

Stonehenge is an amazing day trip from London, where you get to grips with a mysterious past in an area that is anything but bustling and busy. It really is a true escape from the capital.

It does take a couple of hours in the car, but if you set off early, the time flies by quickly, and some of the scenery is beautiful. On site you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the stone circle, as well as the on site Neolithic houses. Some people like to also include a visit to Avebury henge which has a uniquely interesting history that is just as impressive, if not less well known, than Stonehenge.

4.   Oxford

Oxford is a popular day trip from London because the city has so much to offer in a relatively small area. Museums, churches, colleges, restaurants, pubs, nature – Oxford has it all. Even better, it takes just an hour or so on the train.

5.   Margate

If you are a bit of a foodie you will love a day out to Margate. It was not seen as a very cool place to visit a few years ago, but has now grown trendy again because it has such a buzzing food and drink scene. You can enjoy incredible food and drink here, and make your entire day trip centre around that without doing much else. However, there is the beach, the sea front and many shops to enjoy too, and you can get there in just two and a half hours, so you won’t be rushing when you get there either.

6.   Chilham

Chilham is incredibly charming, with beautiful timber-framed houses galore, and cutesy tea shops and gift shops to explore around every corner. It takes about 90 minutes to get there by train, and is often combined with a trip to Canterbury as well, which is only 20 minutes from Chilham on the train.

7.   Bath

Bath is a stunning location that is known for its Roman baths and beautiful English market town. If you want to, you can spend a day enjoying spas and relaxation here, but there is a lot more to enjoy too. The River Avon is there to enjoy, along with various walks through the area to enjoy the architecture. You can get to Bath in less than two hours from London, so you have lots of time to enjoy the area once you arrive.

8.   Dover

The White Cliffs Of Dover are stunning and will make you feel worlds away from London when you visit. In around two hours on the train you can enjoy this iconic coastline, which also has all kinds of cool history to learn about and see, including Dover Castle.

9.   Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is one of the most popular day trips for people to enjoy from London. It is iconic, huge and has a lot of history to enjoy and take in. It takes about half an hour to sixty minutes to get there, and is a good option if you don’t want to travel for a long time.

10.   Paris

That’s right, you can go on a day trip from London to Paris. Is it a long day? Yes. But it is absolutely worth it for such a memorable adventure. You would enjoy your time on the Eurostar and get to Paris in a couple of hours, enabling you to explore the stunning French city without rushing. You could focus on iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, or explore hidden gems like the charming Pere Lachaise Cemetery, or the interesting Jewish sector, home to the best Falafel you’ll ever have. It’s a bit of a boujee day out from London, but it certainly is an escape if you want to go all out.

Where will you explore as you escape the bustling chaos of London for a day? From the iconic history of Stonehenge, to the bourgeoisie of Paris, you can enjoy a breather from London in 24 hours before you head back to the capital fresh with new memories made.

The post Ten Ways To Escape The Noise Of London For A Day appeared first on Twits Guides.

Buying a house is exciting, and the beginning of a new chapter. It is a milestone that means all kinds of opportunities, including making new friends, finding new favourite places, and making new memories in a new place. However, amidst all the great aspects of this change, it is important to acknowledge the challenges that will inevitably come along.

Over 75,000 people buy a house in the UK every year, and 37% say they have found buying a home one of the most stressful events they have experienced. More so than job seeking, planning a wedding and even starting a family. Understanding that this process will be stressful, and ensuring you have different ways to help reduce and manage that stress, is essential to ensure you have a smooth transition into your new home. Let’s take a closer look at how to handle the stress of buying a house:

Getting Started

To get your stress-free house-buying journey started, set a clear budget and take time to list what your house-buying needs are. Understanding exactly what you can afford and what you need in a home is a really great start to this challenging process. Additionally, researching the housing market in your preferred location is really helpful as you get a good idea of what is available, prices and other factors, which can help reduce stress and help you feel more in control of your journey.

Organising Your Finances

Managing your finances is such an important part of the house-buying process. It can be stressful saving for a deposit, but having a budget for the purchase and the moving process can help limit the reach of that stress. Consider speaking to a mortgage advisor, or financial advisor, and they can help provide expertise to help reduce the worry of dealing with the unknown.

Estate Agents Know A Lot

Estate agents are not only there to sell your property, they also have lots of helpful tips and tricks to help make the process less stressful for you. They can simplify the process of selling your house and buying a new property, dealing with the paperwork, offering helpful tips and contacting you about potential houses you could be interested in. They are especially helpful if you are moving to an area you don’t know. They are experts in property in that area, so they can give you all the best insider advice on different roads, pros and cons of different areas, and let you know what is on offer for your budget.

Self Storage Is Your Friend

One underestimated way of minimising stress when buying a house is self storage. Local self storage cuts the moving process stress right down by offering you a safe haven for your belongings. This can be used when you clear your house out for viewings, when you redecorate or renovate your new place, and as a middle ground as you move between properties. It is also helpful if you declutter but don’t have time to sort out the items you have decluttered until after the move.

It’s a really helpful extra service to use for organisation at a time when everything can feel so disorganised and chaotic.

Dealing With Paperwork

Paperwork when buying a house is so stressful. So many documents to look over and sign and respond to, it can be very overwhelming. Luckily, if you have good solicitors then you have a really good chance of having most of that managed for you. They should be taking all the information from the paperwork and only speaking to you about things you need to know. They should be working with the other party’s agents in the background, so that everything is taken care of legally. This is why it is so important to take time at the beginning of the house-buying process to hire a solicitor you like and who is qualified to do a great job.

Home Inspections – Tense But Important

Home inspections can be tense, because you never really know if the report will cause issues in the purchase or not. However, having them done does remove the stress of the unknown. With reports you can be assured you are spending your money on something that is, as far as is reasonable to assume, in great condition. Or, if there are issues, you can purchase knowingly.

Stress Management Matters

Recognising that the process of buying is going to be stressful is really important. Rather than just focusing on how to avoid and reduce the stress, it is important to acknowledge it and to have coping mechanisms in place for when things feel too much. This could include the following:

• Taking time out alone or with friends and family
• Asking your employer for flexible time options throughout the moving process
• Seeking support from talking therapies to vent
• Eating well
• Getting plenty of sleep
• Acknowledging that stress is normal and it won’t be forever
• Exercising to help with stress release
• Spending time in nature regularly

Staying Prepared

When you buy a house, preparing for moving day can be incredibly stressful. So much to pack and organise, even the most relaxed person can begin to feel the pressure. The key to keeping stress levels down is to be more organised than you ever have before. Book removals companies sooner rather than later. Pack as early as you can and have a central checklist that you can continually update and refer to. This degree of control over the process when so much is out of control, will help to keep your stress levels down.

You Can Find Your Path To Serenity During This Exciting Chapter

Buying a house and moving can be very stressful, but if you are prepared and follow the tips above, there is every reason that you can avoid becoming too overwhelmed by the strains of the process. Happy house hunting!

The post How To Handle The Stress Of Buying A House appeared first on Twits Guides.

Moving house anxiety is really challenging, and really common. You’re moving house which is exciting, but it is also a new beginning that comes from all kinds of change. Saying goodbye to the previous chapter, packing up all kinds of memories, having to deal with all kinds of logistical challenges, and generally taking on a lot of the emotions associated with a big change. It’s a lot! It really is no wonder that so many of us get moving anxiety.

What Is Moving Anxiety?

Moving anxiety is anxiety caused by a house move. You may have exasperated anxiety from a house move, which is where you are already anxious and the house move makes it worse. But in this article we are specifically talking about anxiety directly caused by the move. It may cause symptoms such as:

• Struggling with getting enough sleep
• Feeling like your emotions are out of control
• Being on edge all the time
• Struggling to cope with everyday stress you can usually cope with
• Worrying about the move and the next step
• Struggling with eating too much or too little
• Feeling out of control
• Physical problems like headaches and fatigue

It is like general anxiety, but revolves specifically around how you feel about the move and the moving process. It can be incredibly challenging, and even traumatic for some people. The impact is such that the effects don’t just go away once the move is over, especially if the process is particularly challenging and stressful (where multiple sales fall through etc).

Why Does Moving Anxiety Happen?

Moving anxiety can happen for all kinds of reasons. Mostly it is because there is a big shift and change that ultimately throws all your routines, your house, your entire being into chaos. When we experience a lot of change around us, it can suddenly cause us to feel lost and worried, because we don’t feel secure any more. Other reasons moving anxiety can happen include:

Financial Worry

It can be anxious seeing lots of money going out, and nothing coming in. Getting a mortgage is also stressful, and ultimately when sales fall through, or complications happen, things can get expensive and it can be extremely worrying. Often a house is the biggest expense that a family will make, so it is no surprise that buying and selling a house is so stressful.

Time

It can be very anxiety inducing when you move house and find that you are almost short on enough time to do everything. Caring for kids and pets, going to work, packing, doing DIY – where does all the time come from? This can be a big cause of anxiety with anyone who has a busy life.

Lack Of Self Care

Lack of self care, and especially lack of self care in those who already struggle with mental health challenges, can be a big cause of house move anxiety. Maybe you aren’t eating well, sleeping well, taking your medication, going to therapy – whatever you usually do to keep anxiety at bay. It can cause house move anxiety to really take centre stage, because all your coping mechanisms are on hold, or out of whack.

Arguments

Maybe your house move is putting your relationships under strain and all the arguments are causing you anxiety. This is completely normal, and many relationships can struggle with the pressure of such a big life event. Add to that pets acting out of character, peeing in the house from stress, and kids getting their own anxiety about the move, and you’ve got a lot of anxiety in the house. It can be really hard to handle.

How To Manage House Move Anxiety

The good news is that there are lots of ways to manage the anxiety of a house move, so that you get through this difficult challenge with the best chance of moving forward leaving this difficult chapter behind.

Here are some top tips for managing moving anxiety:

Have A Safe Space

Having a safe space like a friend’s house to vent, your car, a London self storage unit, or even a local nature spot, is important. It should be somewhere you can just let everything go for a second, and just take a breath. Whether you choose the car, the local self storage unit, or somewhere else, do have a little kit available to you there, such as a nice snack, some hand cream – whatever tiny treats make you feel a little bit better.

Budget

Budgeting the house move will help you to feel in control. Get a spreadsheet and over budget for the entire move – including every coffee for the moving team, every McDonald’s for the kids whilst you ferry stuff to and from the local self storage unit – don’t leave anything out. This should go some way to helping you recognise that you are in control and the finances at least are not spinning out of control.

Pack Early

There is nothing like a house full of messy, chaotic items to spur on anxiety. Do pack early and be meticulous about moving packed boxes into your local self storage unit, garage or even in a designated ‘finished’ room. This will help you to actively see progress as the house empties out.

Be Kind To Yourself

Be kind to yourself – this is stressful, you have accepted that and ultimately it will not last forever. In the meantime, allow yourself to feel stressed, have extra treats, forget the usual schedules and demands on yourself and just forgive yourself for things not being perfect – this is a time of transition and it is not forever.

Be Kind To Others

By leaning on loved ones rather than taking your anxiety out on them, you can make the most of their kindness and love, and they can also benefit from your love and support. This is teamwork and everybody is going through this, not just you. Laugh at moments of anger, love each other and lean on each other – a house move is not worth breaking any relationship.

Before Long House Move Anxiety Will Be Behind You

Soon enough you won’t be experiencing house move anxiety because you will be in your new place happily making memories.

If you do think the anxiety is not going away after you have moved – speak to your GP as there is support available for more general anxiety – it’s never too late to reach out for help.

The post How To Deal With Anxiety When You Move House appeared first on Twits Guides.

At present the self storage market is thought to be worth $58,279 million, and is expected to grow 7.5% by 2028. It’s no surprise – who doesn’t need flexible, affordable, secure storage space? Every renter, homeowner, house mover, parent, business and more could do with more storage space, and self storage is a really great solution.

If you are new to self storage, you’re likely here because you have questions about self storage and how it works. That’s a smart move – times are hard and we should be only spending money on services that we have thought about properly. The good news is that by being here, you have a head start in your research because we have the eight most common questions about self storage along with the answers to those questions:

1.   Is Self Storage Secure?

Self storage is not only secure, but likely to be more secure than any office space. Facilities made for self storage are in the business of keeping your things safe, and they should proudly let you know about all their amazing security features. You should expect features like:

• CCTV
• Fencing
• Gates
• 24/7 reception services
• Security guards
• Security lighting
• Various lock types and lock points
• Well maintained walls and grounds

2.   How Expensive Is It?

It depends greatly on the company that you use. One of the most popular London self storage facilities costs under £10 pounds a week for 10 square feet of storage, compared to over double that for the same amount of space at a leading National company. For 100 square foot with the same popular London storage company you can pay as little as just over £55 pounds per week, and with the National company, that can cost three times as much. So, it’s as much about shopping around as it is getting just the one quote – you have to be able to compare. Ultimately you should be looking for the most value for money, not the cheapest option.

3.   What Size Storage Unit Do I Need?

Self storage can be as small as a gym locker and as big as a football field. You can have any sized storage unit that you need, but if you don’t know the size you need, the staff at the facility can help you. They have a lot of experience in figuring out roughly the size unit a person needs depending on the stuff they are going to be storing. It also depends if you will be storing and utilising the unit a lot, or simply storing and leaving the storage unit alone for a long time. If you need access regularly for business, or if you buy and sell, or utilise the London storage space to store a bike you use to commute, you should leave space for access to all the different items, and include a walkway.

4.   Is Self Storage A Minimum Of Six Months Contract?

Sometimes, but mostly it is a month by month contract. In fact, some facilities allow you to store your things for as little as a week. This flexibility is why so many businesses utilise self storage for seasonal sales, or as a startup enterprise who may suffer big growing pains. Domestic self storage users appreciate the flexibility for things like moving house, estate clearance and downsizing for retirement.

5.   Can You Run A Business From Self Storage Units?

Some businesses utilise a self storage unit for stock. As long as the stock falls within the restrictions on what you can store at the facility, there is no restriction on storing stock for business in this way. It’s a pretty perfect option for people who work from home, or who operate online, because it is cheaper and more flexible than an office, or a warehouse contract. Some facilities do allow you to run your business from the unit, with desks and everything you would find in any office or warehouse. It isn’t always possible, but in some cases it is actively encouraged and there can be WIFI, business services and more to take advantage of.

6.   Is There Anything You Can’t Store In Self Storage?

You can store most things in self storage, with exception to the following:

• Organic material like food or seeds
• Anything living like pets or plants
• Anything explosive like fireworks
• Hazardous materials and chemicals
• Anything illegal

There will be further restrictions detailed in your contract by the self storage facility. If you are not sure about what you can and cannot store you should check before you sign your contract to make sure you don’t accidentally go against the rules.

7.   If I Don’t Pay My Self Storage Contract, Will My Unit Be Seized?

Ultimately, the owners of the facility want you to have your stuff back so they don’t have to go through the trouble of clearing the unit out. The steps from you not paying for the unit, and the unit contents being sold or auctioned off are many, and before that happens, there are lots of legal steps and opportunities for things to be rectified. If you do think you will be late paying, or unable to pay for your rent, speak to the facility about your options – they always want to help you as much as possible, rather than have to take legal action.

8.   What Is The Difference Between Indoor And Outdoor Self Storage?

Outdoor self storage is commonly not climate controlled, is often a range of shipping units on security protected land, and is commonly associated with less storage perks than indoor storage. Indoor storage is most often a big building with separate units that have separate locks and shutters, and that come in different sizes. Indoor self storage often has climate control, which tends to be the gold standard in terms of keeping your belongings in the best possible condition. Indoor storage facilities often also have lots of extra perks, like business services.

Do you have more questions about self storage? Speak to your local affordable self storage facility for more information. The more informed you are, the better your decision will be, ensuring you get the right self storage situation for your needs moving forward.

The post The 8 Most Common Questions About Self Storage (And The Answers To Them) appeared first on Twits Guides.

If you love old houses and DIY projects, then buying a fixer-upper home might be just the right thing for you. Just imagine buying a run-down property, repairing it, investing your time, money, and creativity, and ending up with a beauty worth much more than what you paid for it. But, first things first, there are a few things you need to pay attention to. 

1.     Setting a budget

This is the essential thing. According to The Porch, only 52% of home renovation projects finish on budget, making it difficult to calculate the costs. That’s why you have to make sure you have enough money for the repairs and be realistic about how much you can set aside. Consulting with a home inspector or general contractor might help you figure out how much work is needed, which will, in turn, give you a better understanding of all necessary expenses.

Another important thing you should consider when deciding on a budget is – will you be able to live in the house while it’s under construction? If the answer is yes, you will save on rent, and, more importantly, you will be able to keep an eye on the work. However, while renovating, it’s a wise choice to consider renting a storage unit for your belongings (compare storage prices here). You could put your things in the garage or someplace else, but storage units are one of the popular options since they guarantee the safety and protection of your items.

2.     Getting permits

Always consult your local officials concerning permits and their costs. Upgrading plumbing, electrical installations, tearing down and moving the walls, etc., require a licensed and insured firm to do the work. That is why it’s crucial to once again talk to your architect or contractor about how they will handle the approval process. Building without the proper permits is cheaper, but it might cause difficulties when it comes to selling the house in the future. But be warned – this process can be frustrating, as the inspectors might not give you their permission straight away. 

3.      Identify your DIY skills

DIY home improvement is usually the most cost-effective route. Apart from all the tools and equipment, you will also need a certain level of home repair and DIY renovation experience. If you have the skills to hang cabinets, paint, build decks, replace windows and install shelves, you will be able to save a substantial amount of money.

On the other hand, if you are not the hands-on type and not willing or able to do most of the work on your own, you should probably stay away from buying a fixer-upper home. Remember, hiring someone to do everything will probably cost you a lot more than you’re ready to set aside. 

4.     How much time are you willing to invest?

Another major consideration – how much time will it take? Let’s face it, renovating a fixer-upper can take a considerable amount of both money and time, and it’s more than a slight inconvenience. All those TV shows renovate a house in a one-hour episode, but they don’t talk about how much time it actually takes. It’s one thing to buy a fixer-upper where all the work can be done in no time by investing in minor cosmetic projects, but it’s a totally different thing if your new house has some serious structural issues. The average rehab might take up to five or six months. 

5.      Plan for complications

We’re not going to lie – the process often tends to be exhausting, time-consuming, and unpredictable. Many problems may emerge after buying a fixer-upper house, and guess what? The TV doesn’t tell you anything about that either.

Acknowledging the possibility that things might start going wrong at the worst possible time is imperative. Take the disclosure with a grain of salt; you never know what might be hiding in between the lines. 

Pros and cons of buying a fixer-upper home

If you’re the type of person who likes things shortlisted, here is a list of pros and cons for buying a fixer-upper house and taking on a major renovation project:

PROS

• Lower purchase price;
• Tax savings – less tax is paid on a fixer-upper than a higher-priced move-in ready home;
• Less competition;
• Opportunity to customize your home;
• Quality control;
• Control of where your money goes;
• Increased property value.

CONS

• Going over budget;
• Expensive renovations;
• Unexpected issues;
• Paying rent and mortgage at the same time;
• A long-term project that might take longer than expected.

In conclusion

The bottom line is – there is no perfect fixer-upper. It all depends on your preferences and the willingness to invest time and money. Still, you ought to remember a few things – every house is a story for itself, and almost everything is fixable. Buying a fixer-upper home and renovating it is one of the most fulfilling things you can do. So, enjoy making that fixer-upper a home that is perfect for you.

The post What to know before buying a fixer upper home appeared first on Twits Guides.