Extras Cambridgeshire: What Happened Next

Date Published:

19/06/2008

Lucy: 'How long did the development take, did it take longer than you anticipated and cost more than you thought?'

Jackie: 'It took seven and a half months, and we went six weeks and £24k over budget!'

Lucy: 'What did you learn from the project?'

Jackie: 'We learned so much. We wasted loads of time changing our minds about the layout. We didn't budget for any unforeseen surprises, like the rotten joists! But most of all we learned not to try and do it ALL yourself...it's a false economy.'

Lucy: 'Are you going to do another project, and how will it and your approach differ?'

Jackie: 'Probably. If we can find one. It took us years to find that one! Next time, we probably wouldn't do another project so far from home. We would budget in a wage for Vaughan as it was an incredible struggle living on one income. But most of all, next time our approach would be...DO NOT fall in love with your property!'

Lucy: 'Was Sarah's advice helpful?'

Jackie: 'Extremely! We can never understand why some people on the programme don't listen to her and take her advice. She's usually right and really knows her stuff.'

Lucy: 'Did the property sell and did you get the price you hoped?'

Jackie: 'We've had an offer of the asking price £450k from the first people through the door but we are really struggling with the idea of parting with it. It's our dream house and we have been seriously considering living there.'

Lucy: 'What would your advice be for other potential developers in this stickier market?'

Jackie: 'Get the right property at the right price. Do your homework and know your market and location. The finish has to be first class to achieve the best price. Don't underestimate your contingency budget - we had not factored in anything at all for daily running costs, insurance, interest rate increases, unforeseens...and well over 2,000 teabags! (yes, Vaughan sadly kept track of them!).'