Last updated on February 27th, 2023 at 03:59 pm
They say home is where the heart is, and it’s true! Our homes are our safe havens, where we spend time with our families, rest, relax, and recharge.
If we want to be safe, comfortable, and happy in our homes, there are a few things we need to do. These include creating inviting living spaces, and just as importantly, keeping up on regular home maintenance, and even renovations periodically.
Here, we’re going to talk about how you can maintain your home on a budget. Read on for some pointers.
Remember Your Home is an Investment
Before you do anything when it comes to maintenance or renovation, it’s important to get into the right mindset.
You might be worried about the cost of home repairs, maintenance, and upgrades. And, yes, many home projects don’t come cheap. This is especially true if you need a new roof, have major plumbing issues, or need to do other large projects.
But home renovations are an investment. It’s vital to keep this in mind.
If you don’t maintain your home, you’re going to spend a lot more on repairs down the line. But, when you’re proactive, you’ll save money in the long term, even if that means spending some money now.
Know What Needs to be Done
Home maintenance is a broad category. Just for starters, it can include:
- Cleaning air vents
- Kitchen and bathroom faucet maintenance and/or replacement
- Checking plumbing for signs of leaks
- Getting your roof replaced or repaired
- Cleaning out your gutters
- Getting new siding
- Painting interior walls
- Replacing flooring
- Repairing or updating your HVAC
- Window and door repair or replacement
- Maintaining your attic/basement/crawl space
Some of these, like painting interior rooms, are easy DIY projects. Others will require professional assistance.
And, some jobs are high priority since they can affect the safety and livability of your home–think heating or plumbing issues, for example.
Knowing which tasks are due to be taken care of, which require expert help, and which you can tackle on your own will help you create a list of priorities and set a budget.
Know How Much You Have to Spend
When you’re on a strict budget, it’s important to understand exactly how much you’ll be able to spend. You don’t want to overspend and then find yourself without cash for other necessities.
Take some time to research the costs of the home maintenance projects you’re considering. For example, if you need your roof replaced, you can Google ‘how much does a new roof cost?’ The internet is a great place to start as you begin to research your options, look for contractors, and learn about costs.
Create a list or spreadsheet including the prices for the various maintenance projects you’re considering, and prioritize them.
Many experts recommend spending about 1% to 4% of your home’s purchase price annually on maintenance. Of course, this varies depending on the age and condition of your home.
And, this is just an estimate, since in some years you’ll spend much less, and in others, more, depending on what needs to be done. Consider setting aside money for these types of expenses, so they don’t eat into your household budget.
Look for Discounts
Some companies and contractors offer discounts, so use them when you can!
Window companies might offer a buy one window, get one free promotion. You can often buy carpet or flooring and have it installed free, or get money off certain construction jobs in the off-season.
As, always, just make sure to check references and read reviews before hiring any contractor or company.
Another upside to saving money in one area is that you have more money for other needed repairs or maintenance.
Maintain Your Plumbing to Head Off Expensive Repairs
Working plumbing is, of course, a necessity, so save yourself money on plumbing costs by maintaining your faucets, drains, bathtubs, and toilets properly.
For example, it’s a good idea to preventatively clear the drains in your sinks. Periodically, pour a baking soda/vinegar mixture down every drain. This will get rid of any gunk inside and keep them from clogging. This is an inexpensive way to do a little preventative maintenance.
You’ll also want to immediately address any leaks, since water seeping into your walls or floors could mean repairs costing well into the thousands of dollars.
Don’t Neglect the Exterior
Don’t forget your home’s curb appeal! A house’s exterior has to be kept up too. A poorly-maintained exterior can have a seriously negative effect on your home’s value. So, make sure that your house looks great on the outside as well as on the inside.
You’ll want to make sure that your driveway, sidewalks, stairs, and concrete are in good condition. Be sure to maintain decking, railings, and retaining walls.
Mow the lawn and shovel the snow whenever it’s needed, and think about landscaping that will bring out the best features of your home and yard.
Have your trees and hedges pruned periodically, getting rid of dead trees or branches. They’re not only an eyesore, but can also fall onto your home or car.
Be Flexible
Home maintenance on a budget can be challenging, so try to be prepared for the unexpected. Emergency expenses are a fact of life for all of us, so set aside some extra money in case your furnace needs repair, or you have a serious plumbing or electrical problem.
There are many advantages to being a homeowner, but don’t forget that with homeownership comes the responsiblity of maintaining your house. And, even with preventative maintenance, unexpected issues can crop up.
More Ideas for Maintaining (and Enjoying) Your Home
Home maintenance isn’t always as much fun to think about as home decor, but it’s often much more important. A safe, cozy home that’s all yours is what many people dream of, and maintaining it is crucial.
We’ve give you just a few ideas to help you maintain your home on a budget. If you want to read more about making your home into the perfect space for your family, you can head here for ideas about home improvement, renovation, and more.
Also read:
Give Your House a Facelift: 6 Smart Ways to Update the Exterior of Your Home
Bathroom Renovation on a Budget: 6 Ways to Save
How to Create a Cozy Patio Space: 9 of Our Best Tips
Can you Renovate Your Kitchen on a Budget? 9 Tips for an Affordable Revamp
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