We've all been there — that feeling of despair when you notice that your house is in need of a change. "This house is in need of a serious makeover," you lament. Well, fret no more, we bring you the top ten home improvement websites that will help you in your quest for a home makeover.

www.homemakersonline.co.za

Homemakersonline.co.za is a veritable hub of information. From an extensive tips and ideas section to listings of various exhibitions and a discussion forum, this is the ideal place for those seeking an all-in-one website. Relevant articles and ideas are published regularly and provide each visitor with information, inspiration and insight into the world of home improvement.

www.doityourself.com

A website for the aspiring handyman — from decorating to woodworking, this site is tailored to those wanting a little more of a hands-on approach.

www.houseintohome.co.za

This website offers a personalised feel that others don't quite have, because the editor often writes about his or his friends' experiences when renovating or improving their homes. There is also the option of signing up to receive articles via email.

www.helpmebuild.co.za

A commercially-oriented site that features various products, this site also covers a range of legal issues that may arise from renovating. Secondhand goods are also traded on the site, so who knows, you might just find a gem.

www.homerenovationguide.com

This site offers a variety of content, from videos to blogs. A unique feature is the ability to upload your very own photos for all to see and compare with their own. A section devoted to well-designed renovations serves as a huge inspiration to budding homeowners.

www.toolboxtales.com

Besides having a very cool name, toolboxtales has a lot going for it. This site tackles a few problems that most sites shy away from such as mould and flies. As the name suggests, this is mainly devoted to handymen.

www.oldhouseweb.com

As the website name suggests, this site places emphasis on old houses. From chemical treatments to wooden floors, many subjects pertaining to old houses are covered.

www.hometips.com

Another all-in-one site, hometips.com offers practical tips, such as how to save energy. This site also offers a 'how it works' section — ideal for the curious homemaker.

www.home-style.co.za

Like many other similar sites, home-style.co.za claims to be "SA's best guide to home improvements". With a simple layout, this website is easy to use — with categories such as 'interior', 'home exterior' and 'garden'.

www.hgtv.com

The website of American channel Home and Garden Television is predictably snazzy, with many features. With the ability to take polls, rate other people's home improvements and videos — hgtv.com almost has it all. With something for everybody, from the wannabe handyman to the experienced renovator, this is a collection of sites you'd want to keep bookmarked.