The recession has encouraged people to perform DIY improvements around their homes, it has been claimed.Anna-Marie DeSouza, editor of Build It magazine, noted that developing a house to its maximum potential can not only create a fantastic place to live but will also provide a sound investment.The comments follow research from Everest claiming that 28 million people plan to improve their property in the next year, with the average Briton expecting to spend 2,831 on the task.Ms DeSouza observed that the home improvement market looks set to have yet another promising year, suggesting more people may be tempted to buy new fixtures such as kitchen sinks and taps.The home improvement market looks set to have yet another promising year. Homemaking is having a revival at the moment, so theres nothing trendier than partaking in a bit of DIY or mending and replacing something, she said.Ms DeSouza also encouraged people to attempt home improvement tasks themselves in order to create a real personal touch and a huge sense of satisfaction.