Latest articles by Sarah Harley
£9,000 heat pump grant uplift for homes using heating oil will come into force next month
The government has officially confirmed that the uplift in funding, available via the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, will run from 21 July 2026 until March 2027
Government reveals plans to slash the time and costs involved in buying a home
With proposals to introduce sales packs, a move to a digital practices and a Code of Practice for estate agents, the home buying landscape is set to change
Run! I repeat, run, don't walk! Lidl has added an air con unit for less than £150 to the middle aisle
Frustrated you haven't been able to pick up up an air con unit as everywhere has sold out? Lidl is saving the day with a full cooling range launched on 25 June
Plug-in solar panels could still be available this year with launch of a new government consultation process and added retailer support
While little has been said about plug-in solar lately, a new consultation process and more retailers declaring their support could mean progress is in sight
5 expert-approved ways to banish weeds from your lawn – without killing your grass in the process
If your lawn is looking lacklustre thanks to an infestation of weeds, we share some easy ways to bring it back to life, that will also help it thrive
I wish I'd owned this discounted Beldray All-in-One Floor Cleaner 10 years ago – my floors would have thanked me
It may not perfectly suit my life right now, but using this floor cleaner has made me realise just how much value it could add to a busy family home
Can hydrangeas grow in shade? Yes, but heed this advice if you want your plants to thrive
From hydrangea variety through to positioning and soil, these expert-approved tips will ensure your blooms flourish in your garden
Want a garden refresh without spending a fortune? This budget-friendly product is the summer upgrade you've been searching for
Cheap, versatile and easy to install, bamboo fence roll offers an affordable way to add privacy and style to your outdoor space. Here's what you need to know and where to buy it
Garden screening doesn't have to mean a tall fence – these 17 ideas offer a more stylish way to create privacy
Our garden screening ideas are perfect for concealing parts of your plot, providing shelter and keeping out prying eyes
Considering solar panels? Make sure you read this expert-led guide first to help you decide
Solar panels could help you reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint, but what does having them involve? Energy expert David Hilton explains
Nearly a quarter of homeowners at risk of electrical problems warns industry survey
From failing to get the recommended inspections to ignoring faults, it seems many of us are rolling the dice when it comes to our home's electrical systems
The spring-cleaning job many of us forget – and why doing it now could help prevent radiator problems this autumn
Your radiators may be switched off for now, but giving them attention during warmer months could help you save money and avoid frustrating cold-weather breakdowns
Garden saunas are the outdoor upgrade everyone wants – and experts say they’re more achievable than you might think
With the wellness trend showing no signs of abating, we explore the option of adding a garden sauna to your outdoor space
Could this window dressing secret be the ultimate trick for keeping your home cool in a heatwave?
Is using several layers of window coverings the trick to preventing overheating in your home? We explore the concept of window stacking
Home saunas are the Nordic wellness trend we can't get enough of – but there’s lots to consider before installing one
From finding the right location to understanding maintenance and ventilation, this is what’s really involved when adding an indoor sauna to your self build, renovation or extension
6 chef-approved kitchen design rules that will elevate a normal domestic kitchen into the professional realm
If you love to cook, introducing these key features into your kitchen design could give you a space that's functional, practical and still seriously stylish
'Think of black like a sophisticated eyeliner that defines the space' – tips on using this bold colour like an interior designer
If you're feeling bold enough to brave black in your interior design scheme, make sure you follow this expert advice before you begin
The ‘high-low’ decorating mindset designers swear by – it could save your budget without sacrificing the finished look
Do interiors that look good always have to blow your budget? Experts reveal where to spend, where to save and how to make your home look more expensive than it is
Ground source heat pumps – what to know if you're considering this low-carbon heat source for your home
As a fossil fuel alternative, ground source heat pumps offer a long-term energy efficient option for heating your home. But, what does having one involve?
Move over kitchen pantry – a bantry is the new feature I want in my kitchen
From hidden cocktail stations to beautifully organised cabinetry, these bantry ideas show why this hybrid kitchen solution is taking off fast
Should you rethink No Mow May? Experts reveal the hidden downsides (and how to avoid them)
Although No Mow May is a great way to invite flora and fauna into your garden, should we be approaching it in a different way to make sure it's beneficial?
Could toxic giant hogweed be hiding in your garden? Here's how to identify it and get rid of it safely
Knowing how to get rid of giant hogweed is important for a safer garden – we've got all the tips you need
From cobbled country paths to sleek and stylish slabs, these 9 front path ideas won't fail to guide you home
With front paths the main route in and out of your home, we've rounded up ideas that combine practicality with pleasing finishes to create paths with purpose
