23 December 2023 , 11:00
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A mum who lost her home just before Christmas was forced to rent a rundown property but managed to turn it into a chic haven in just two months with a small budget.
Lauren Griffin, from Kent, was dealt a huge blow when her landlord told her he would be selling the property so she would need to move. Her mum, who was her acting guarantor, was then made redundant.
This meant the mum-of-two was "left in hell" as she was only able to afford a property in a terrible condition. Lauren found a house in the "worst state ever" but was determined to give it a makeover in time for her and her two sons to enjoy at Christmas.
How Lauren's living room used to look (Facebook)She revealed the incredible transformation in 2020 in Facebook group DIY on a Budget where members show the fruits of their labour while spending as little cash as possible.
Lauren posted in the group: "Living in private rented as a single mum I've always used my mum as a guarantor. This October I was given notice to move out due to landlord selling up just after my mum got made redundant.
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Lauren's new look living room (Facebook)"Unable to rent anywhere else I had to take on the only place I could get through someone I knew that was in the worst state ever barely even habitable with two boys. It's been hell on earth and real testing times turning this place around quickly to make the nicest home possible for my boys in time for Christmas."
Lauren told FEMAIL it took around two months to carry out the transformation. She painted the rooms in the property's bleak and depressing rooms and added new furniture including a table and chest of drawers in the living room.
Blue LED lights were added to the staircase (Facebook)Blue LED lighting was added to the staircase, which had its banisters repainted, and to the bathroom which also had new laminated floors installed.
Lauren replaced the dirty carpet in her bedroom with a new grey one and soft furnishing additions such as new cushions, curtains and rugs to complete the new look.
The scruffy bedroom before it was done up (Facebook)
Lauren also bought new carpet for her bedroom (Facebook)She said at the time: "There's still a long way to go and far from perfect, but today I am proud of how far I have come on a tight budget. Doing all of the work just myself and my mum.
"Finally feeling less depressed and more like this is our home. Have done all three bedrooms now and almost finished the living area, kitchen and bathroom just been far too busy to take anymore pictures so far."
Her talents have not gone unnoticed by members in the group. One commented: "You are amazing!! What am incredible turn around! I'm sure your family is proud of you and you be proud of your work as well! Looking forward to seeing more pics."
A second wrote: "Wow what an Amazing transformation. Your home is beautiful. Wishing you and your lads a very happy life in your gorgeous home. You must be very proud of your achievements."