Investment in Home Improvement Grows as House Sales Continue to Fall

    COUNTY ARMAGH, NORTHERN IRELAND, February 01, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Irish property website Daft.ie recently announced that the final three months of 2011 saw the average asking price fall by almost 8%, compounding a 43% fall in asking prices since the economic high of 2007. However ArmaghElectrical.com is finding that sales of investment level appliances such as range cookers are growing as a result of Irish consumers who have disposable income investing it into the fittings and electrical appliances of their property while waiting for housing market conditions to bottom out.

"It's an increasingly tough time for Ireland's homeowners who need to move house for work reasons or needing space for a growing family," says ArmaghElectrical.com's Head of Marketing, Chris Dalzell. "As customers look to home improvement activities with an eye on future market recovery, growth in desirable range cookers and other kitchen appliances is becoming a notable trend in Northern Ireland as well as the Republic."

Aga Rangemaster has continued to lead the way within the range cooking sector, maintaining the majority market share for the brand with introductions of induction and the 100cm wide range cooker.

While Aga Rangermaster recently announced a 3% drop in sales overall they are still seen as the leader of the UK Range cooker market against the number two Britannia Stoves. Aga's chief executive William McGrath stated in a stock market trading statement that while 2011 had been tough they still expect to increase profitability over the period due to operational efficiencies.

While traditional designs such as the Rangemaster Elise Range Cooker remain popular with homeowners looking to retain a period look to their kitchen, contemporary designs in black and stainless steel are becoming increasingly sought after.

The other trend to hit the range cooker market is induction. As the heat is conducted directly within the pan, the surface of an induction range cooker remains considerably cooler than a conventional hob - any residual heat is indicated by a red light and there is also a child lock feature.

Rangemaster recently announced that sales of induction range cookers had increased by 47% from 2009-2010 and they are recognised for their safety, efficiency and eco-friendliness. The induction range also comes in a variety of colours, such as China Blue, Rose Taupe and the Latte coloured Rangemaster cookers.

It's not just owners of large homes who are investing in range cookers. City flats owned by young executives or couples can add to their asking prices by including smaller range cookers. Thanks to the availability of 90 cm wide range cookers, smaller kitchens can also benefit from the style and efficiency of range cookers. A good investment in complementing other DIY measures carried out as homeowners wait for the housing market to recover.

www.ArmaghElectrical.com are the largest independent electrical retailer in Northern Ireland.

# # #