The New Year is here bringing with it great anticipation for all that’s to come. Many of us have already made resolutions to meet personal goals or career aspirations, but it is also important to give some attention to our homes.
Longtime homeowners, new nesters and even those planning a spring home sale will benefit from this list of easy-to-execute home resolutions.
Declutter your rooms
It’s time to get rid of all that extra stuff—the overflowing closets, the crammed crawlspace, the various junk drawers throughout your home. Reclaim your space. Spend a weekend (or two) decluttering your home. Seek out the items you no longer use or want and donate or toss them. A good purge will free up space and allow for better home organization.
Make the most of indoor and outdoor space
Would your master closet hold more with new shelving? Should you consider a new furniture configuration in the family room? Would you use your deck more if it were cleaned and stained? Take an honest look at your home. Are there rooms you aren’t using? Ask yourself why. There may be simple fixes that you can implement to maximize on all that your home currently offers.
Manage maintenance
Routine maintenance checks may help you avoid more costly repairs in the long run. Consider having your HVAC serviced seasonally. Test your toilets for leaks. Check your windows and doors for drafts. Head up to the attic to make sure it is dry and free of leaks.
Stay safe and sound
The saying “safety first” also applies to your home. Test your smoke alarms; do they need new batteries? Do you have gas heat or appliances? Consider getting carbon monoxide detectors for your house. Go around to each room to check electrical sockets as defective sockets may be cause for concern.
Focus on energy efficiency
Will you purchase new appliances this year? Energy-efficient products are the way to go. You’ll conserve electricity and score tax credits. Replace old incandescent light bulbs with LED lighting. Add weather stripping to drafty doors and windows. The effort will be worth it when you see savings on your utility bill.
Pay more attention to the mortgage
Are you hoping for a pay raise in 2016? Consider putting some of that extra income towards your mortgage. Making additional payments throughout the year will help pay off your mortgage more quickly and reduce the interest you will pay.
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