Get Rid of Clutter to Be a Smarter Homeowner
You’ll enjoy your home more if you get rid of clutter. Outdoor clutter attracts pests. Rodents, spiders, and insects are drawn to lawn debris and piles of wood. Overgrown tree branches and shrubbery make it easier for pests to enter your home, so keep these trimmed. Indoors, clutter makes it harder to clean your home. You’ll have less trouble finding things you are looking for and will be missing out on valuable living space.
Make the Right Home Improvements
Improving your home for resale may be different from remodeling a home you plan to keep. However, it never hurts to keep in mind the return on investment. If you’re having a hard time deciding where to start, consider the kitchen. Whether you want to completely remodel or just spend a few hundred dollars, improving this room creates a major impact. From changing out cabinet doors and fixtures to a complete overhaul, you’ll enjoy your beautiful new kitchen while improving the value of the home. Combining savings with comfort is an excellent way to be a smarter homeowner.
Boost Energy Efficiency to Be a Smarter Homeowner
Improving the efficiency of your home’s systems will save you money while keeping your living space comfortable. You may know that you should change your furnace’s filter monthly, but did you realize that scheduling routine maintenance for your HVAC system can help it run more efficiently? By making minor repairs and inspecting your furnace and air conditioner, a heating and cooling company can keep your system in top condition and help prevent breakdowns. Try these additional ways from the U.S. Department of Energy to improve energy efficiency:
- Install high-quality insulation
- Inspect for, and seal off, energy leaks
- Control moisture with proper ventilation
- Take advantage of free energy audits from your utility provider
When the time comes to replace them, shop for energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances to easily shave money from your gas and electric bills.
Maintain an Emergency Fund
Although this may seem like more of a personal finance tip than a way to be a smarter homeowner, an emergency fund helps you take care of your home instead of putting off repairs. Stashing away at least three months of living expenses can help you be a smarter homeowner. You’ll be glad you made the effort if your roof needs repairs, your septic tank must be replaced, or your furnace breaks down in the middle of January.
Whatever your situation, these tips will help you be a smarter homeowner. Make the most of your house, condo, or other living space by making improvements as your budget allows. From tiny changes to major renovations, these projects will help you make the most of your home and protect your finances at the same time.
Cal Home Inspection provides inspection services to Sacramento and the surrounding areas of California. Contact us to schedule an appointment.