Home Improvements You Will Be Happy You Made

Homeownership is a rite of passage. When you buy your first home you join new ranks of adulthood. You are making long term investments in your future and putting down roots. However, it is one of your biggest investments. It's imperative that you take care of it. You want its value to grow. For many, that feels intimidating, but it doesn't have to. There are many ways you can be an excellent homeowner and care for your investment.

Look into upgrades to lower your utility bills

As a homeowner, you have the freedom to upgrade the home to lower your bills. These initial investments will save you lots of money down the line.

Insulation maintenance

How does the insulation in your home look? If it's thin and sparse your throwing money away. You want to keep your heat and cool air in your home you are paying for it. Consider installing more insulation. In the walls and in the attic. This will keep heat and cool inside the house. This will save you money down the line. Money that can go toward additional improvements on your home.

Put in ceiling fans

Keeping the air circulating in the house keeps the house cooler in the summer. It uses less energy than the air conditioner too.

Schedule air filter replacements

Your furnace and air conditioner can last a while. But only if you properly care for them. The best thing you can do is to replace the filter regularly. Typically every two to three months. This lengthens the life span of the appliances which adds to the value of your home.

Look into tax benefits

Look at your state guidelines. There may be tax benefits if you make energy efficient upgrades to your home. For example, if you live in the southwest, see what tax breaks there are for installing solar panels.  

Have a budget

When you buy your home it is so tempting to redecorate. You would probably love new furniture and appliances that are perfect for your new home. But you need to have a budget. If your AC kicks the bucket the cost is on you. If your water heater breaks, you must fix it. Create a budget so you can personalize your home. But keep a sinking fund in case something happens.

Keep home improvement receipts

This is important when you are ready to sell your home. Home improvements are tax deductible in a home sale. It may not seem like a big deal at the time. But it can save you thousands of dollars. The home improvement costs lower your taxable income from the sale of your home.

Don't neglect repairs

Ignoring maintenance on your home is like ignoring car repairs. The problem gets worse and more expensive. If your roof is leaking it will continue to deteriorate. You don't want a huge gaping hole in your roof. If you have a pipe leak it can damage the surrounding area. The same goes for your water heater. If it starts to leak and needs to be replaced don't let it go. Otherwise, you will have a flooded home to worry about too. Don't forget about mold. It can make you sick and mold remediation is expensive. Many of these costs are avoidable if you are on top of your maintenance.

Make easy security enhancements

Everyone wants to feel safe in their own home. Making your home more secure is not expensive and it adds to the value. Criminals don't want to work hard to burglarize a home. You don't have to break the bank to discourage a home invasion.

Motion detector lights

Motion sensor lights are a proven crime deterrent. You can purchase solar-powered lights, so you aren't pulling from your electricity.

Reinforce your entry doors

Burglars don't typically pick a lock anymore. They just use brute force and break down your door. That's why reinforcing your entry doors is so important. You can buy door jamb reinforcement kits at the hardware store. While you at it be sure to reinforce your strike plate too. Luckily, it's easy and inexpensive to install.

Window alarms

You can hire a contractor to install alarms throughout your home. But if that's not in your budget consider simple window alarms. The shrill sound of the alarm will get your attention and send a burglar running.

Being a homeowner is so rewarding. It also gives you the opportunity to flex those DIY muscles. By using these tips you can be a great homeowner. Your investment will be an asset to you not a burden.

Are you thinking about making some bigger home improvements or considering refinancing? Contact us today to get started, click here to visit our application page or call us toll-free at (877) 255-3554