If you’re a new parent and have just bought your first home or are planning on buying one anytime soon, there are a few things that can ensure the longevity of your home while also protecting your investment. Some of the best financial decisions are made with the future in mind.
To help you get the most out of your new home owning experience, consider our 5 top homeowner tips so that you avoid mistakes and keep your home in the best condition for any future decisions you may make regarding it. Take a look:
1. Keep your documents in a safe place
While this may seem like a simple tip, it’s easy to haphazardly store your paperwork for insurance and mortgage documents. Create a binder that includes everything you may want to have on hand in the future, from when you first asked “what is VA entitlement?” to the papers where you signed on your new home. In the same vein, you also want to keep all the documents related to home repairs you do after you’ve moved in, from warranties to guides. All of this paperwork can benefit you in the future, should you choose to sell your home, contact your contractors down the road, and need proof for your taxes.
2. Don’t just jump into any project
Some homes need some fixing up, at least if you have personal preferences and want the home to be exactly the way you want it. With this in mind, you may rush to get all the remodeling projects done. However, it may be best to slow down with remodeling projects. While some things may help with the resale value of your home, other things may not and you don’t want to make a change you could later regret. Additionally, there are a lot of costs involved with buying a home and you may find yourself in debt when trying to make changes. Plan your projects carefully, especially if you’re hoping to do them yourself.
3. Regularly maintain your home
Whether you plan on staying in your home for years to come or want to sell it in the future, there is one thing that we will always suggest: maintenance. From pipes to gutters and simply keeping it clean, maintaining your home can go far in its longevity and how much you can get if you decide to sell it down the road. Maintenance also means keeping an eye on air filters and valves, as well as avoiding broken pipes and plumbing should an unexpected freeze happen, etc.
4. Consider how any remodeling you do can improve the resale value
You may buy your home and be fine with how it is. Or, maybe those kitchen cabinets are an eye-sore but you simply couldn’t pass up on the price. If that’s the case, consider how remodeling your kitchen can actually be a very worthwhile investment down the road. Most everyone who looks to buy a home will keep an eye out for the quality of things like kitchens or bathrooms. Additionally, if you’ve bought an older home, there may be some minor issues that could use some tending to, if left untouched could lead to some serious issues down the road, and no one wants that.
5. Don’t worry about rushing to set up your home
New homeowners often want to rush to decorate their home and buy all of their furniture at once. Yet, some often forget how many things they’ll already be paying for when buying their new home. If you want to be sure that you end up with the great interior and home décor you want, take your time. This way you can invest in quality furniture and belongings that can last and that you’ll love.
In Conclusion
Whether you plan on living in your home for a few years and then selling it or want to stay in it long-term, these tips can help ensure your home stays top-value for years to come and you don’t end up throwing money down the drain. Best of luck in your new life as a homeowner.
