Home improvements are top of the New Year's resolution list for many British homeowners in 2006, according to a study by Propertyfinder.com.

The study reveals that UK homeowners have been inspired to make changes after watching home and garden TV shows.

Over a third of respondents plan to fit a new kitchen or bathroom in their homes in 2006.

Nearly a quarter are keen to give their garden a makeover and 18 per cent are planning other DIY improvements for the New Year.

Meanwhile, 3.7 per cent are planning to improve home security and 8.3 per cent of people hope to move a child.

"Home improvements are high on the list of resolutions for 2006," said Jim Buckle, chief executive of Propertyfinder.com.

"People often make improvements to their homes before putting them on the market, which is interesting, as we have recently predicted that transaction volumes could rise by 30 per cent in the New Year.

"Many of us have a tendency to make grand plans for our homes at the start of the New Year, which can fall by the wayside by February. But, for those looking to sell, home improvements can add considerable value and sprucing up the garden or doing some painting and decorating are the cheapest ways to increase the saleability of your home."

A significant 26 per cent of respondents said that they plan to increase the energy efficiency of their homes in 2006.

"Rising fuel costs are hitting homeowners hard and it is unsurprising that so many are responding with money saving plans to increase the energy efficiency of their," Mr Buckle added.

"With this in mind, it seems bizarre that so few are looking at reducing their biggest household expense, namely their mortgage!"