5 Home Maintenance Tips To Help Save You Money Later
Wednesday, September 21, 2016, 6:00 AM | Leave Comment
Home maintenance results in upfront costs, which scare many homeowners into actually committing resources to it.
Done right, however, you can maintain your home’s pristine condition without burning a hole through your wallet.
Here are five tips to helping you achieve that and more.
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Check the Gutters and Downspouts
These parts of the house are often neglected since, let’s face it, nobody really looks at the gutter and downspouts.
At the backdrop of any household, however, these two components work day and night to ensure proper water flow.
Obstructed gutters and downspouts can flood the basement and weaken the property’s foundation.
Exposed to water, surrounding parts of the home that are wood-based can also rot away and be a conducive home for pests and insects.
The overall damage can cost as much as $5,000 or more, depending on the housing material and property valuation.
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Inspect Your Plumbing System
Water leakage is a costly problem for many homeowners. Luckily, albeit, early diagnosis and prompt repairs can significantly trim costs.
Left unabated, leaking water can cause mold and mildew growth. Inspect your toilet and cabinet sink for any leaking or cracked pipelines.
Companies, like Rapid Rooter, can help you identify and maintain residential plumbing systems for minimal costs.
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Follow the One Percent Rule
As a general rule of thumb, save at least one percent of the purchase price of the property.
For instance, if your property costs $500,000, you should allocate at least $5,000 as budget for yearly maintenance.
This doesn’t mean you have to consume that $5,000 every year, but have the budget as cushion for any expenses incurred throughout the year.
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Consider Factors that Raise Price
The age of the house will play a key factor when getting billed for maintenance and repairs.
Older homes will naturally require more frequent and more costly repairs and replacement of rusty and worn-out parts.
Weather in the area and location are also related factors that contribute to the rise/drop of home maintenance and repair services.
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Clean Out HVAC Systems
HVAC systems encompass a variety of sub-components including air conditioners, heaters, dryers, and septic tanks.
When one of these sub-components malfunction, your entire family’s routine can fall apart.
Not only that, but a neglected HVAC system can cost as much as $100,000 in repairs and replacement parts.
Maintaining your home will require time, effort, and money, but the resources spent are only a fraction of what you could end up spending when damages start popping left and right. It really is amazing how much money you can save down the road through proper home maintenance.
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Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.
