Home repairs can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. You can do many of these repairs yourself instead of hiring a contractor, and you can shop around to find the best prices on materials.
It’s also important to plan ahead and protect yourself with homeowner’s insurance. And don’t skimp on maintenance, as ignoring problems can often backfire (a little bit of dry rot can become a collapsed deck).
1. Do It Yourself
Learning how to do simple repairs yourself can save you money on service fees. Try checking out DIY workshops hosted by stores that are experienced in selling home maintenance supplies and community resources.
Creating savings accounts specifically for home repair and renovation costs can help you budget for them. Some experts recommend setting aside 1% of your home’s value each year. However, this may not be a good rule of thumb for everyone.
2. Shop Around
Homeownership is expensive, especially with mortgages, insurance, taxes, utilities and renovation costs. However, you can save money by shopping around for contractors and materials, doing some of the work yourself and buying used items.
Experts generally recommend saving 1% to 4% of your home's purchase price annually for repairs and maintenance. But how much should you really be saving? Here are 10 of the best tips to help you save money on home repairs.
3. Hire Multiple Contractors
Home repairs can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. By shopping around, doing the work yourself, and waiting for sales, you can cut your costs significantly.
It is always a good idea to get multiple estimates before hiring someone for home improvement. This will give you perspective on appropriate costs and help you compare the quality of work.
4. Use Coupons and Discounts
Home repairs can be costly, especially if you don’t plan ahead. That’s why it’s important to take advantage of discounts and coupons when possible.
There are also several different financing options for homeowners who need to make surprise repairs. These include credit cards, personal loans, and home equity lines of credit. Choosing the right one depends on your specific situation.
5. Look for Cheaper Alternatives
Home repairs can cost thousands of dollars. It is essential to save money for these expenses. Many experts recommend budgeting 2% of your home’s value each year.
You can find rough estimates for costs online or ask neighbors who have completed similar projects what they spent. You can also consider a home warranty for better coverage of repair and replacement costs. Sites like cinchhomeservices.com/faq-library/-/faq/home-warranty-montana/ have information on home warranties and can further educate you on home service options.
6. Hire a Contractor Only When Necessary
Home repairs can be costly, but they are often necessary to keep your home in good condition. However, there are some ways to save money on home repair costs.
Make sure to shop around and get multiple estimates from contractors before hiring one. Also, always look for contractors with positive references and experience. Moreover, ask about financing options that suit your budget and financial needs.
7. Hire a Contractor Only When Necessary
Home repair contractors can be expensive, but they’re often necessary to make sure the work is done correctly. If you’re in the market for a contractor, consider shopping around to find the best price and asking about financing options.
Also, try to avoid major renovations like removing walls and moving sinks, bathtubs and stoves. These changes can be costly, especially if you have to install load bearing beams and other expensive materials.
8. Use a Credit Card Only When Necessary
No one enjoys paying for home repairs, but they are an inevitable part of homeownership. Luckily, there are many ways to save money on these costs.
The best way to do this is to take care of problems as soon as you notice them. This will help you avoid more expensive fixes down the road. Also, remember to shop around and look for cheaper alternatives.
9. Take Care of Problems as Soon as You Notice Them
Home repairs can be expensive, but you can save money by taking care of them as soon as you notice them. This way, you will avoid bigger problems and costly repairs later on.
It is also a good idea to negotiate prices with contractors and suppliers when buying materials for home improvement projects. Many will be willing to work with you if they know you are serious about the job.
10. Compromise
Sometimes, it may be necessary to compromise in order to save money on home repairs. This could include choosing a less expensive brand of paint or painting over a discolored wall instead of replacing it.
A professional can help guide you through the negotiation process and may have contractor connections or knowledge of local assistance programs. They can also help you find a compromise that works for everyone.
Resources:
Being a homeowner is a big job. But there’s an art to staying on top of your home maintenance tasks without hiring a contractor.
The key is to know which tasks are urgent and which aren’t. Luckily, many home maintenance tasks require little time or money to do. Here are 10 that you should tackle first.
1. Replace Your Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors can help keep your family safe from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure they're functioning properly by replacing the batteries and locating them in areas they should be.
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause headaches, dizziness, weakness and death. It comes from burning fuel in cars and trucks, kerosene heaters, propane and natural gas stoves and fireplaces.
2. Change Your HVAC Filters
A dirty filter is a major cause of system downtime. Make sure to keep up with this simple maintenance task to save on energy bills.
Once you find the filter, remove it and carefully replace it with a new one. You should note the direction of air flow arrows on the filter frame so you can install it correctly. Then, restore power to the HVAC unit. Look into your home warranty to see what you can replace under your warranty. Many people do not realize that cinch home services can provide you with services that will cover systems in your home that may need updating.
3. Check Your Gutters
Gutters perform an incredibly important function for homes by diverting water away from the foundation, minimizing the risk of soil erosion, mildew, and structural damage. Make sure your gutters are clog-free and in good condition.
Check for standing or slow-moving water; inadequate slope and downspout direction; loose spikes or hangers, rust or peeling paint; and staining of adjacent surfaces. Work a section at a time when it is not raining.
4. Change Your Light Bulbs
Changing light bulbs is one of the easiest tasks in the home, but it is a job that often gets overlooked. It is important to always remember to turn off the power source before you change the bulb.
For a screw fitting, simply insert the new bulb into place and twist. Make sure to dispose of the old bulb responsibly.
5. Clean Your Windows
If you have white spots on your windows, which can be difficult to remove, a few simple steps can have them looking like a professional cleaning them. First, dust the window frames and sills.
Then, clean the glass with a squeegee and lint-free towels. Lynsey recommends using Casabella microfiber cloths, which have a honeycomb texture that nabs water spots, smudges and dirt without scratching.
6. Clean Your Garage
Keep a regular garage cleaning schedule to prevent messes and keep the space clean for longer. Mop floors regularly, wipe down walls with a mixture of water and detergent to break down oil spills, and air out your garage monthly.
Be sure to get behind workbenches and other items you can’t move to the side (wear a mask). Sweep out the crevices between the floor and walls.
7. Clean Your Gutters
Gutters are designed to direct rainwater from the roof down to the ground, preventing it from seeping into your house, which can cause foundation problems. However, they can become clogged with leaves and other debris.
Cleaning your gutters isn't the easiest chore, but neglecting it can lead to bigger (and more expensive) home repairs later on. Make sure you use a sturdy ladder, wear appropriate work gloves and never over-extend your reach.
8. Clean Your Gutters
Gutters are a key part of your home’s drainage system. But they can become clogged with leaves, twigs, and debris. This can cause water to splash back onto your walls and damage your house.
Cleaning your gutters can be a messy job, but it’s essential for protecting your home. Make sure to wear work gloves and use a sturdy ladder. You’ll also need a garden trowel and something to scoop the muck into.
9. Clean Your Gutters and Soffits
Gutters should be cleaned regularly and soffits should be inspected. They protect the fascia and roof and if they are not properly ventilated, moisture can cause wood rot and mold.
Fortunately, professionals can remove dirt and stains from these structures safely from the ground without having to climb on a ladder. They first apply a detergent solution with a low-pressure nozzle to avoid damaging the surrounding foliage.
10. Clean Your Gutters
Clogged gutters prevent rainwater from flowing down and cause rot on the roof and water damage to the house. They also attract pests and critters.
Cleaning your gutters can be a messy, time-consuming job, but it's essential to do. Make sure you're wearing safety equipment and using a ladder that's secure. Also, consider getting a gutter-cleaning wand that attaches to a hose to avoid climbing a ladder at all.
Resources:
After years of saving, sacrificing and paying down debt, you’ve finally purchased your first home. But now what?
Budgeting is essential for new homeowners. You’ll now face bills like property taxes and homeowners insurance, as well as monthly utility payments and possible repairs. Luckily, there are some simple tips for budgeting as a first time homeowner.
1. Track Your Expenses
The first step in budgeting is to take a look at what money is coming in and going out. This can be done in a spreadsheet or by using a budgeting app that will automatically track and categorize your spending habits.
Start by listing your recurring monthly expenses, such as your rent/mortgage, utilities, transportation and debt payments. Then add in the estimated costs of homeownership such as property taxes and homeowners insurance.
You can also include a savings category for unanticipated costs such as new roof, replacement appliances or major home repairs. Once you’ve tallied up your estimated monthly expenses, subtract your total household income from that number to determine the percentage of your net income that should go toward necessities, wants and debt repayment/savings.
2. Set Goals
Having a set budget doesn’t have to be restrictive and can help you find ways to save money. Using a budgeting app or creating an expense tracking spreadsheet can help you categorize your expenses so that you’re aware of what’s coming in and going out each month.
The biggest expense as a homeowner is your mortgage, but other costs like property taxes and homeowners insurance may add up. In addition, new homeowners may also incur other fixed fees, such as homeowners association dues or home security.
Once you know your new expenses, create savings goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound (SMART). Check in on these goals at the end of each month or even each week to keep track of your progress.
3. Create a Budget
After paying your mortgage payment, property taxes and insurance, it's time to start creating a budget. This is the first step in ensuring you have enough money to pay your nonnegotiable expenses and build savings and debt repayment.
Start by adding up your income, including your salary and any side hustles you do. Then subtract your household expenses to see how much you have left over each month. We recommend using the 50/30/20 budgeting rule, which allocates 50% of
your income toward needs, 30% to wants and 20% to debt repayment and savings.
Don't forget to include homeowners association fees (if applicable) and an emergency fund. Remember, Murphy's Law is always in play, so having a slush fund will help protect your investment in the event something unexpected breaks down.
4. Set Aside Money for Extras
Homeownership comes with a lot of hidden expenses. In addition to the mortgage payment, homeowners need to budget for insurance, property taxes, homeowner’s association fees and utility bills.
The key to successful homeownership is ensuring that your total household income is sufficient to cover all of the monthly costs and leave room for savings and fun stuff. The first step is reviewing all of your expenses and finding places where you can cut back. For example, do you need a cable subscription or could you reduce your grocery spending?
Once you’ve trimmed your excess spending, you can use that money to build up a savings account or even put it toward future repairs. It’s a good idea to set aside 1 – 4 percent of your home’s purchase price each year for maintenance-related expenses. You may be needing some replacement in your house and you want to be able to cover everything you can. Educate yourself on home services and what other homeowners are talking about when they first buy their homes. Cinch Home Services: does home warranty cover electrical panel replacement: a post like this is a good reference to learn more about what is and isn’t covered under a home warranty. Over time, appliances and things that you frequently use will go through a lot of wear and tear and will need repair or replacing.
5. Keep a Checklist
Creating a checklist helps keep you on track. The best checklists include all relative tasks and are constructed in small measurable goals that are attainable and easy to remember.
The list may seem endless, but you can begin by setting priorities based on need or affordability. For example, you might plan to plant rose bushes or buy a new couch but realize that these non-essential purchases can wait while you’re still working on getting your finances in order.
It’s also important to budget for additional expenses unique to homeownership, such as property taxes and homeowners insurance. Adding these expenses to your monthly budget will help you avoid “payment shock,” the transition from renting to paying a mortgage. Having this extra cushion can make the difference between financial comfort and stress.
Resources:
Homeownership is one of the most significant financial decisions many Americans will make. It also offers a sense of pride and security for families and communities.
Buying a home requires a lot of savings to meet upfront costs like a down payment and closing expenses. If you’re already saving for retirement in a 401(k) or IRA, consider temporarily diverting some of that money to down payment savings.
1. Keep an eye on your mortgage
Owning a home is one of the most expensive purchases an individual can make. However, the benefits are many including tax deductions and equity building. Moreover, mortgage payments help boost credit scores and are considered “good debt.”
When you’re saving for a down payment, it’s tempting to put your money into investment vehicles that could potentially supercharge returns. But that’s not the best use of your cash.
Instead, reexamine your budget. It might be possible to set aside a little more each month toward your mortgage. This will require a thorough review of your spending habits, and may also mean negotiating a pay raise or taking on a side gig to increase income. This might seem like a hassle, but consider the benefits of homeownership that will accrue if you can pay down your mortgage faster. The extra cash you’ll save each month will add up over time.
2. Pay off your credit cards
One common financial goal for new homeowners is to pay off credit card debt. This is a great idea, but it’s important to also save for both short and long-term expenses. Try to make saving and paying off debt a monthly priority in your budget. This way, these payments will be as routine as your rent, utilities and other bills. Also, make sure you are depositing your savings in a high-interest account so that it grows faster.
If you are carrying multiple credit cards with varying interest rates, consider paying off the one that charges the highest rate first. This method, called the snowball or avalanche methods, will help you eliminate your debts faster and save money on interest payments in the process. However, before you begin to aggressively pay down your debts, Ariely recommends saving up at least three to six months’ worth of expenses in an emergency savings account. This will prevent you from having to turn to credit card debt if a surprise expense pops up.
3. Set a budget
A budget is one of the best tools to help you save money and reach your financial goals. Start by calculating how much you’re actually making each month (check your bank account, credit card statements, and receipts from the grocery store) and subtracting any standard expenses from your income.
You’ll want to also track any variable expenses that may differ from month to month, such as gas, entertainment, and food. Using a budget app or spreadsheet can help you categorize and itemize these costs to see where there are opportunities to cut back.
Once you’ve figured out where your money is going, you can create a plan that prioritizes your needs, wants, and savings. Then you can work towards your larger financial goals, like saving for a new car or paying down debt. Remember to keep a close eye on your budget and make shifts as needed, especially after major life changes. For example, if you receive a promotion with a raise and you want to put more toward savings or debt repayment, you’ll need to adjust your limits accordingly.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Homeownership provides significant financial benefits compared to renting. But to keep homeownership rewarding it is essential that homeowners are willing to work at maintaining their property and be able to handle basic tasks like trimming bushes, mowing the lawn, shoveling snow and replacing worn out appliances.
Many people may not enjoy these maintenance duties but it is important for a new homeowner to be able to perform these simple tasks in order to save money and avoid having to pay for the services of a professional. Some DIY projects like painting a room or customizing a game room can also be a lot of fun while others may need more of a professional’s help. You may be finding yourself asking, “Does a home warranty cover your microwave?” | Cinch Home Services can provide you with a lot of information on home services.
To help boost savings, new homeowners should transfer tax refunds, bonuses and raises into their savings account before they have a chance to spend them. This will also help to keep mortgage payments and other costs low.
Resources:
Whether you’re a new homeowner or buying a gift for someone else, stocking their toolbox with these essential do-it-yourself tools is a smart move. Having the right tools on hand can help with home renovations or repairs at the ready. Keep in mind that even with the right tools, home appliances can be expensive to repair and having a home warranty can save you a lot of time and money. If you are unfamiliar with it, sites like https://www.cinchhomeservices.com/faq-library/-/faq/home-warranty-new-mexico can provide you with more information regarding home services.
Start by investing in a large toolbox that has removable trays for storing tools. Then add the following tools to complete your basic tool kit:
1. Hammer
A hammer is an essential tool for many hand-powered tasks, from hanging pictures to striking metal car parts. There are also specialty hammers for specific jobs:
For example, a tack hammer has a head designed to drive or remove small shoe tacks without damaging the surface they're struck on. You can also use it to pin fabric for upholstery repair. There are even electrically insulated hammers for working around energized components.
2. Screwdriver Set
Whether you're a professional repairer or just doing a few DIY projects, having the right screwdriver set in your toolkit is important. Look for sets with a variety of driver bits, including Phillips and flat heads and hex-shaped shaft bases that can take a wrench.
Hex screwdrivers are best for loosening or tightening screws with a hexagonal notch, such as those used in furniture assembly. You can also find magnetic screwdrivers that have small magnets that attract screws.
3. Adjustable Wrench
A high-quality adjustable wrench will help you loosen and tighten a variety of fasteners. You'll need it to reattach pipes, adjust door hinges and tap picture hanging hooks into walls.
Also get a set of Allen wrenches, which work like screwdrivers but have hexagon shaped tips. They're handy for assembling some furniture or working with set screws on power tools or bikes.
4. Pliers
Pliers are an invaluable tool that come in a variety of sizes and designs. They are incredibly useful for various projects and home repairs around the house.
There are many types of pliers, including combination pliers that have sections for gripping and stripping wires as well as concave sections for gripping nuts or round pipes. Others like nail puller pliers have standard-looking jaws with serrated teeth to
grip the shanks of nails.
5. Utility Knife
A utility knife is a must-have tool for many jobs. Similar to a box cutter, it features one or two interchangeable blades that slide into the handle. When dull, these blades can be broken off or snapped to expose a fresh edge.
Look for a utility knife with safety features, like manual or smart retraction, to reduce the risk of injuries when handling it. Other helpful details include a wire stripper and onboard storage for multiple blades.
6. Tape Measure
A tape measure is an indispensable tool that brings accuracy and efficiency to home improvement projects. A tape measure is flexible, portable and has markings that allow for easy reading.
The end of the tape has a hook (also known as a tab, tang, or lip). You should never bend a tape measure because it will damage it. The hook can also be used to hold nails and screws when putting up wall panels.
7. Flashlight
A good toolbox can make you or a new homeowner feel empowered to take on DIY home repairs. Stock it with a hammer, screwdriver set (with both flathead and Phillips heads), adjustable wrench, pliers, tape measure, utility knife, level, flashlight and drill.
Duct tape is a jack-of-all trades and a recurring item on lists of essential tools. Use it to patch a hole, tighten a loose handle or get dog hair off your couch.
8. Drill
A battery-powered drill is a must for screwing hangers into wall studs for heavy pictures and assembling furniture. Opt for one with a set of tips that include hex head, star head and flathead screwdriver bits to tackle most repairs.
It’s also helpful to have a staple gun for tack-ups and carpeting, per Design Love. Store your tools in a tool kit or crate or even a heavy-duty canvas bag.
9. Screwdriver Bits
A power tool is useless without the right bits. Those bits must fit in the power tool to drive or remove screws.
The type of bit also matters. Some bits are specifically designed to prevent cam-out, which can damage workpieces. Other types are rated for impact. These can withstand the short, hammer-like impacts generated by impact power tools. They're usually stiffer and harder than ordinary bits.
10. Hammer Bits
A hammer is essential, but look for one with a curved claw and a steel or fiberglass handle to withstand repeated use. Also consider an allen wrench, which looks like a screwdriver but works in fastener heads.
A basic tool kit can help you hang pictures, assemble furniture or manage minor repairs until professional help arrives.
Resources:
Owning a home is one of the most significant investments many people ever make. So, it's natural to want to increase your property's value as much as possible.
Major remodels like adding a room can boost your home's value, but minor improvements also add up. Here are simple ways to add value to your house without spending a fortune.
Another quick upgrade that can help to increase your home’s value is adding a fresh coat of paint. This can make a home look bright and modern, which is appealing to most buyers.
Most Americans consider their homes to be their biggest asset. While there are many factors that affect home values, you can make upgrades to increase your home's value, and get a good return on your investment.
One of the best and easiest ways to boost your home's value is to clean and declutter. This simple upgrade can make a huge impact on potential buyers. Clutter is a major turn-off for potential buyers so clean and organize your home to increase its value. A fresh coat of paint is a cost-effective way to refresh the look of your house.
If you’re looking to add value to your home this spring, consider adding a patio or deck. These outdoor additions are popular with buyers and offer a relaxing place to enjoy food, drinks, scenery and company. And best of all, unlike a room addition, porches and decks typically don’t count towards taxable square footage or raise property taxes. That means you’ll likely recoup the cost when it comes time to sell.
A deck or patio is a great way to add value to your home. It can also provide extra living space that can be used for entertaining and relaxing. A deck or patio can add value to your home. It provides an outdoor space for entertaining and relaxing. A deck also adds curb appeal. While patios are less expensive to build, they tend to have lower resale values than decks. However, many homeowners find the return on investment is still worth it. A deck or patio is a great addition to your home, and it can also increase its value. Many potential buyers are looking for outdoor space, and a deck can be a great selling point.
A deck or patio adds living space that is attractive to buyers. They provide a relaxing area to enjoy the view or entertain friends and family. A well-designed deck or patio will seamlessly blend with the architecture of your home and will be a focal point in listing photos. It may also raise your property tax assessment but not significantly.
A fresh coat of paint can make your home look new and more attractive to potential buyers. A new coat of paint can make a home look fresh and clean. It's inexpensive and easy to do, making it one of the easiest ways to increase your home's value
While not as expensive as a kitchen or bathroom remodel, decks can still increase resale value significantly. However, it's important to keep in mind that a patio is not as valuable as a deck.
Although top real estate professionals who price dozens of homes each year say that a new fence can increase home value, this depends on many factors, such as the materials used and local buyers’ preferences.
Still, most people see fences as a desirable feature, especially those with children and pets. They can provide privacy and boundaries while adding curb appeal. However, they don’t make a significant impact on home value.
A deck or patio is an affordable way to increase your home's value. While it may take longer to recoup your initial investment, it adds a lot of curb appeal.
Home buyers are looking for outdoor living spaces, and these structures provide the perfect spot for eating, lounging, and relaxing. Additionally, they are ideal for uneven terrain.
A professionally built deck can boost a home's value. It also makes a beautiful outdoor space for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors. While patios are less expensive to build, they tend to have lower resale values than decks. However, many homeowners find the return on investment is still worth it.
A smarter home with features like voice-controlled assistants, doorbell cameras and smart locks is appealing to potential buyers. It's a convenient and affordable upgrade that will help increase your home's value. Cinch Home Services can provide you with the necessary information regarding home warranty services. Smart home services and other home services are great to have especially if they are covered under a warranty.
While it’s rare for upgrades to recoup 100% of their costs, small changes can still be worthwhile. For example, a new coat of paint or adding manufactured stone veneer can boost curb appeal and raise your home’s value.
Resources: