Your home is likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make. Take home maintenance seriously. With regular upkeep, you’ll keep your home in great shape and even boost property value. Let’s look at a few ways you can be a better homeowner.
Create a Budget
You can be a better homeowner by budgeting for household repairs, maintenance, and improvement projects. Part of homeownership is being prepared for the unexpected. Look at your spending habits and find ways to save for home maintenance costs and emergency repairs.
Be a Better Homeowner: Use Water Efficiently
If you’re trying to budget, take steps to cut down on how much water your home consumes. Here are a few ideas:
- Install low-flow showerheads.
- Turn off the tap while you brush your teeth.
- Use soaker hoses instead of sprinklers to save water in the garden.
- Use a rainwater collection tank.
Clean the Gutters
Don’t let the gutters get filled with debris. Be a better homeowner by cleaning them out twice each year. Clean and well-maintained gutters allow water to flow away from your home.
Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency
Look for ways to save on utility costs and reduce your home’s carbon footprint. Caulk around windows and doors and inspect the insulation in the attic to make sure it is adequate for your climate.
Inspect for Termites to Be a Better Homeowner
Termites cause major problems in houses. Look for signs of termites or other wood-destroying pests that damage the structural integrity of your home. You’ll know you have a problem if you notice pinholes in the drywall, mud tubes appearing along your foundation, or piles of insect droppings.
Have Your HVAC System Serviced
Get the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system serviced each year. It’s far less expensive to maintain the system than to wait until major repairs become necessary. Your HVAC unit will run more efficiently and you’ll be helping to extend its lifespan.
Be a Better Homeowner by Learning to Make Repairs Yourself
It’s not necessary to call a professional every time there is an issue around the house. Learn a few DIY skills and fix it on your own. You can learn to install shelving, replace faucets, and refinish your floors.
Paint the Interior
Freshen up your rooms with a new coat of paint. This simple project goes a long way in improving your home’s appearance. Painting a room is an easy weekend task to tackle alone or with the help of family members.
Professional Inspection Network provides home inspections in Southern California. Contact us to request an appointment.