Owning a home is a wise and costly investment that needs to be looked after to maintain its value and avoid expensive repairs and replacements later on. Starting on the right foot will help you have a successful first homeownership experience. Here are the key tips for new homeowners to ensure you enjoy your homeownership journey.
Enhance security
If you’re moving into a previously occupied home, re-key your door locks to avoid intrusions from unauthorized people. Get the services of a professional locksmith in Lynchburg Virginia, for proper re-keying. Consider installing a monitored home security system that can automatically notify you in case of an intrusion. Smart lighting ensures that your compound is sufficiently lit, keeping burglars and vandals at bay. In addition, smart home automation enhances home security using motion sensors that detect movement then alert homeowners to act in case of any impending danger.
Conduct regular energy audits
Energy audits determine your home’s energy efficiency. Get a utility company to assess your home’s energy consumption rate and advise how you can improve accordingly. You may consider changing your lighting into energy-efficient LED or take advantage of smart home technology that regulates energy usage as conditioned. Additionally, lowering your water heater’s thermostat will ensure efficient energy usage.
Learn how to turn off your water shut-off valve
Once you move into your new home, locate the water shut-off valve and learn how to turn it off. This will help you stop water flow into your home if a pipe bursts or begins to leak, protecting your property from damage. According to Insurance Journal, non-weather-related water damage accounts for 19% of homeownership insurance claims. Finding and learning how to turn off your shut-off valve is the preventive measure you should consider.
Regularly inspect your home
Regular home inspections allow you to detect minor problems and get them fixed before they get out of hand. Look out for signs of roof leakage, any foundation issues, and basement leaks, and flooding possibilities. If you have no knowledge that enables you to identify such problems, seek the services of an expert to have them examine your home and advise you accordingly.
Create a maintenance checklist
Having a maintenance checklist that you strictly follow will guarantee a fully functional home at all times. Look around your home and identify the things that need regular maintenance and make a schedule. Some of the items to include in your program are smoke and carbon dioxide detector testing, HVAC system maintenance, routine drainage system inspection, roof examination, water heater maintenance, and others. Setting reminders will ensure that you don’t carry forward any maintenance tasks, ensuring smooth home operation.
Consider regular deep cleanings
Deep cleaning leaves every corner of your home clean and refreshed, and since it’s pretty involving, hiring a professional cleaning service will get your home spotlessly clean in no time. This will improve indoor air quality, get rid of germs and viruses, and get your home decluttered.
Endnote
New homeownership can be challenging, especially if you don’t know what to care for and when. These tips will help ease your struggles while ensuring the best homeownership experience.
Leave a Reply