Thinking of Renovating

I have recently been made redundant after 18 years in the IT industry. Although this was a huge shock, I am looking on the bright side and seeing it as an opportunity to do something different with my life. The idea of returning to a permanent office job has no appeal to me at all.

I have been thinking that now might be a great time to buy, renovate and sell/hold properties as I certainly have the time. I would appreciate your opinions on
whether you think this is wise, without a job
what my chances of obtaining a loan would be, without a job.

I would love to hear from anyone who is renovating full time especially on how they got started.

Thanks,

Brad