In the early days of their relationship, Derek and Kirsty managed their finances well.

With a reasonably good joint income they were able to save as well as pay a fairly hefty mortgage.

Their house needed a fair amount of work on it so they spent most weekends ripping out walls or patching up existing ones.

The cost, not only to their finances but also to their relationship, was becoming a burden.

After spending so much time and money on the house there was little room left for leisure.

Rows, mostly over small things, became more and more frequent.

When communication suffered because money was becoming an obstacle, they went to get financial advice and eventually reduced their monthly payments.

They also started to do things at a more leisurely pace, making time for each other.

Surviving this difficult patch has made them appreciate that their most valuable asset is not bricks and mortar, but each other.