14 Things You Need to Check Around Your Home to Maintain Its Value
Your home is likely your most valuable asset. Not only does it provide you and your family with a roof over your head, but it also represents a significant investment. Unfortunately, many things can cause your home’s value to decrease, from deferred maintenance to poor curb appeal. But you can also do simple things to make sure your home retains its value (or even value increases) over time. In this blog post, we’ll discuss 14 things you need to check around your home to maintain its value.
1. The Roof
The roof is one of the most important things to maintain in your home. A well-maintained roof can last for 20-30 years, but a neglected roof will start to show signs of wear and tear after just ten years. You can avoid costly repairs down the road by keeping an eye on your top and fixing any issues as they arise. Unfortunately, depending on which type of roof you have, there are a lot of things that can deteriorate over time. If you are unsure how to check your roof correctly, you can hire a professional to come and inspect it for you.
2. The Gutters
Your gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage. Clogged drains can cause water to back up and seep into your home, damaging the foundation, siding, and trim. To avoid this, clean your gutters regularly and repair any leaks or damage as soon as possible. Checking the gutters, especially After the fall season, to make sure that they are clean from all the dead leaves is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your home’s value.
3. The Foundation
The foundation is one of your home’s most critical structural elements, so it’s essential to keep it in good condition. Check for cracks or other damage regularly and have any repairs made by a qualified professional as soon as possible. Subsidence, or the sinking of your foundation, is a severe problem that can lead to costly repairs. Also, if you live in an area with a high water table, check your foundation for signs of water damage. Read more on what is subsidence and measures you can take if it occurs in your home.
4. The Siding
Siding protects your home from the elements and helps it retain heat in the winter and cool air in the summer. That’s why it’s essential to regularly inspect your siding for damage and have any repairs made promptly. In addition, you should also power wash your siding and check for any pests at least once a year to keep it looking its best.
5. The Windows
Windows play a critical role in your home’s appearance and energy efficiency. That’s why checking them regularly for cracks, or other damage is essential. If you notice any problems, have them repaired by a qualified professional as soon as possible. It would help if you also cleaned your windows regularly (at least once a month) to keep them looking their best. In addition, ensure your windows are sealed and caulked to prevent drafts and energy loss. You can also consider installing energy-efficient windows, and this will significantly improve the value of your home and save you costs of your utility bills.
6. The Doors
Like windows, doors play an essential role in your home’s appearance and energy efficiency. Inspect all entries regularly, looking for signs of damage such as cracks or gaps. Have any repairs made promptly by a qualified professional—and don’t forget to clean your doors periodically!
7. The Appliances
If you have any major appliances in your home (such as a refrigerator or oven), be sure to include them in your regular maintenance routine. Clean them regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions and have any necessary repairs made right away—before they become more extensive (and more expensive) problems.
8. The Plumbing
Another crucial element of your home is the plumbing system. To keep it in good working order, regularly inspect all pipes and fixtures for leaks or other damage. If you notice anything amiss, have it fixed promptly by a qualified professional. In addition, it’s a good idea to have your drains cleaned every one to two years to prevent clogs.
9. The Electrical System
The electrical system is another vital part of your home, so it’s essential to keep it maintained. Regularly check all outlets, switches, and cords for signs of wear or damage. If you notice anything unsafe, shut off the power immediately and call an electrician. In addition to cords and outlets, you should also check your lighting fixtures, smoke detectors, and home security system. These are all essential parts of your home’s electrical system and should be regularly checked and maintained.
10. The HVAC System
Your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC) are responsible for keeping you comfortable year-round, so keeping it in good working order is essential. Have your HVAC system serviced by a professional at least once a year, and be sure to change the air filter monthly.
11. Your Home’s Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is essential for two reasons. First, it’s the first thing buyers will see when they drive up to your home. Second, it can be a significant factor in determining your home’s worth. If you’re considering selling your home, it’s essential to improve your home’s curb appeal. This may include power washing the exterior, painting the trim, and planting flowers.
12. Outdated Kitchens And Bathrooms
It is time for a renovation if your home has an outdated kitchen or bathroom. Outdated kitchens and bathrooms can turn potential buyers away and lower your home’s value. When updating these rooms in your home, be sure to stay within the style of the rest of your house. You do not want to update one room in your home and have it stand out like a sore thumb.
13. The Backyard
Your backyard is often the first thing potential buyers will see when they come to your home – make sure it looks neat. Keep the lawn mowed, the edges trimmed, and the garden free of weeds. If you have a pool, ensure it is clean and well-maintained. If you have any outdoor furniture, ensure it is in good condition. The same goes for outdoor amenities such as a fire pit or pergola.
14. Floors
Your floors take a lot of abuse. Over time, they can become stained, scratched, and scuffed. You may not think these cosmetic problems affect your home’s value, but they do.
Prospective buyers will notice if your floors are in disrepair, and it will reflect poorly on the rest of your home. So if you have hardwood floors, clean them regularly and refinish them every few years.
Tile and linoleum floors can also become stained and scratched over time. You may not be able to refinish them, but you can replace damaged tiles or have the entire floor resurfaced.
Carpets are another flooring surface that can take a beating over time. They can become stained, matted, and just plain old. Like hardwood floors, carpets should be cleaned regularly and replaced every few years.
Ensure your home is well-maintained if you want to protect its value. Investing in minor repairs and improvements now can save you money down the road. You can also create a maintenance plan to make sure you stay on top of things and ensure your home maintains its value for potential buyers down the road.
