We’re heading towards that time of year again that makes most of us get all fluffy and soppy – Christmas and the new year period.  This year it’s been even nicer for me as I’ve been involved in helping a chum with a sprawling country house to run her b & b business, more along the Air bnb lines.  She’s had the most wonderful selection of house guests too and they all willingly pay up the very reasonably priced fee.  The building itself dates back to 1730s and has only had one or two building additions since.     She consults a property maintenance agency for all matters – they don’t overcharge and always check with authorities over every project.  The major works have to passed  by the local planning office that deals with Grade I properties – they are experts of course and know exactly what is permitted and what is not.