Beat the Credit Crunch

Posted on 19/06/2010

So you've found the Clear Lets flat you want to rent.

But it's only just on budget. In other words you can't afford any hidden costs. In fact, you're going to have to cost CUT. So how can you go about it in your new rented property?

Well, what about turning over a new leaf and really 'going green'. That means keeping an eye on your energy costs. A low energy light bulb will last ten times longer than an ordinary one, while a 'soft glow' bulb (lower wattage) will enhance your room with a cosy feel.

Draft-proof those windows, doors and letterboxes. Skirting boards (particularly in Victorian tenement-style flats) and floorboards can let out heat and should be sealed. 

Reducing the temperature in a room by as little as one per cent can also save you as much as £65 a year.

Don't over-fill the kettle - if you're making tea for two then just fill it for that amount. Heating water can be expensive. Saving money on boiling water several times a day can mean you can run a TV for hours. 

Reflective radiator panels cost around £20 for 10 panels. Fit them behind your radiator and you'll instantly save cash. Alternatively, if you really want to go the whole hog, just use kitchen foil instead.

"Meanwhile, think about getting rid of some of that junk you've been carting around from flat to flat for years," said Margaret Logan, Clear Lets, Director of Sales. "I'm guessing you really don't need it anymore. Get by the nostalgia trap and think ebay. Also, check out your local council site for details of any car boot sales in the area."

Meanwhile, if your landlord says it's ok to decorate, don't even think about getting in a professional (average cost £750 for a 25ft room!). DIY is definitely the key here.

When it comes to home insurance, Clear Lets offers you a great deal at just £8.66 for £5000 worth of contents! This also covers your deposit.

You shop around for food bargains - so now it's time to do it for your home. It doesn't take a lot of effort to cut back on power costs but any time you do spend researching is well worth it. After all, you might even save enough for a nice little holiday in the long-run. Now who's going to turn that down?

 For more advice on cost-cutting measures contact the Clear Lets advice team at any of our four offices in Glasgow, Kirkcaldy, Dunfermline or Aberdeen.