After three years in Bulgaria Sharon Blackburn-Maughan returned to the North-East with an unusual idea for a new business.

She has started Great Tidyings, in east Durham, to provide a helping hand to anyone who is having difficulty selling their home.

Sharon's expertise as a home stylist began when she helped friends sell their home and then found herself inundated with requests for advice.

Sharon prepares a detailed report for each client on exactly what needs to be done and can also arrange for any work to be carried out if the client prefers. She knows that many sales are lost on "kerb appearance" when potential buyers drive up to the house and, after a glance, decide against going inside.

She said: "First impressions are absolutely vital when you are selling your home.

"Some owners may need to do quite a bit of decorating or refurbishment, but improvements can be as simple as tidying up clutter, using flowers, or making sure animals and any reminders of them are out of the way.

"Sometimes, reducing the amount of personal items and photographs on display makes it easier for people to visualize themselves in your home."

During her time in Bulgaria, Sharon was a home stylist to members of the British Embassy.

With support from Business Link County Durham and the East Durham Development Agency (Edda), Sharon is starting 2001 determined to make a success of her business.

Richard Foskett, business adviser at Edda, said: "Anyone who has seen the House Doctor on television will realise how effective a home stylist can be and Sharon is very good at her job. We wish her every success with her business."