A new house is a significant investment. You want to be sure that your investment lasts for many years to come. Especially if you plan on selling the home in the future, you’ll want to ensure that it holds its value. Most importantly, you want to ensure your family is safe and comfortable in the home.
Here are some practical tips to ensure your new house lasts for as long as possible.
1. Get a good home warranty.
A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home appliances, such as the HVAC system, water heater, washer, dryer, etc. Most home warranties are valid for one year and are renewable annually. You can purchase a home warranty when you buy your house or anytime afterward.
When buying a new home, ask the builder about what type of warranty they offer. Many builders include a one-year warranty with the purchase of a new home. If your builder does not offer a warranty or if you are buying a previously-owned home, you can purchase a home warranty from a third-party provider. This may be a good idea, even if your home is brand new, as it will give you peace of mind knowing that you’re covered in case something goes wrong.
2. Do regular maintenance.
It is essential to do regular maintenance on your home to keep everything in good working order. This includes cleaning gutters and downspouts, trimming trees and shrubs, and power washing the exterior of your home. You can do much of this maintenance yourself, but you may want to hire a professional for larger tasks, such as tree trimming.
It’s also essential to do regular maintenance on your home’s systems and appliances, such as changing the furnace filter, checking the smoke detectors, and flushing the water heater. Regular maintenance can prevent minor problems from becoming big ones. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks in the foundation or water stains on the ceiling, and take care of them immediately.
3. Make updates and repairs as needed.
As things start to wear out or break, make the necessary repairs or replacements immediately. This will help to prevent further damage and extend the life of your home. Many homeowners wait until something breaks completely before they fix it, but this is often more costly and disruptive than making repairs as needed. Pay more attention to areas exposed to the weather.
For example, your deck or patio may need to be updated every few years. Consider waterproofing your deck or patio to protect it from the elements. It would be best if you also replaced worn-out windows and doors as needed. You can keep your home in good condition for many years to come by making updates and repairs.
4. Use high-quality materials.
When making any updates or repairs to your home, be sure to use high-quality materials. This may cost a bit more upfront, but it will save you money in the long run because you won’t have to replace things as often. Opt for durable materials that will stand up to wear and tear, such as solid wood doors and windows, ceramic tile, and stone countertops. These materials will last longer and look better than their cheaper counterparts.
You should also use high-quality materials when building an addition to your home, such as a deck, patio, or gazebo. This way, you can be sure that the addition will last many years. Many homeowners make the mistake of using cheap materials for their additions, only to replace them after a few years.
5. Hire a professional when needed.
Some things are best left to the professionals, such as roofing repairs or electrical work. Hiring a professional will cost more than doing it yourself, but it will likely be done correctly and last longer as a result. They will also have the necessary tools and equipment to do the job right.
Some of the more common problems that homeowners face are roof leaks, water damage, foundation cracks, and electrical issues. If you’re unsure how to fix these problems, or if they seem beyond your scope of knowledge, it’s best to hire a professional. Ask around for recommendations, or get bids from several contractors before you make your decision.
These tips will help you make your new house last for many years. A little bit of effort on your part now will save you time and money down the road. So don’t put off those maintenance tasks or necessary repairs. You want your home to be a comfortable and safe place for you and your family. By taking care of your home, you’ll be able to enjoy it longer.
