For many people, their homes are their largest asset. Homeowners pay hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars a month on a mortgage, utilities, insurance, and other home-related expenses.
Protecting that asset will pay off in the long run. And it’s easy to do with just a little time, knowledge, and money.
Here are nine things you can do to preserve the value of your biggest investment:
1. Give your AC some TLC
Your furnace and/or air conditioning unit will perform longer and more efficiently if you show it some occasional attention.
Change filters regularly and always use the correct size.
Have the units serviced on a schedule recommended by the manufacturer. Most people opt for service calls twice a year — just in time for the winter cold or summer heat.
Want to reduce your heating and/or cooling costs? Install a programmable thermostat.
If you own an older home, it can pay to have your air ducts inspected. The tape and adhesive used to seal the ductwork can deteriorate over time, causing leaks. The inside of the ducts can accumulate dust. Cleaning up the ductwork can save you money.
2. Trim up
Keep tree limbs pruned off of roofs to prevent rubbing the shingles. Cut bushes too so that they don’t rub against wood or vinyl siding.
On brick homes, keep plants trimmed away from the exterior so you can see the mortar and bricks. Watch for cracks and repair them quickly. Contractors who specialize in brick repair are the ones to call.
3.Check the roof
One little water leak from the roof can lead to big problems. If you notice even a tiny water spot on any of your home’s ceilings, get a reputable roofer to inspect your roof, identify the problem, and fix it — fast.
4. Watch for water
Water can be a home’s worst enemy. But the problem doesn’t always come from outside. Sometimes water leaks start inside the home. Common culprits include:
- Sink drains
- Washing machine hoses
- Frozen water pipes
Most leaky water problems can be prevented with a little planning and a small budget.
Inspect all sink drains monthly. Just open your cabinets and look for any water drips or puddles.
For your washing machine, replace the rubber water hoses (which have a tendency to burst) with stainless steel hoses (which are much sturdier than plastic). They’re inexpensive and available at most home improvement stores. Plus, they’re easy to install so you can do it yourself.
To prevent frozen water pipes, wrap outdoor spigots and pipes with pipe insulation. But don’t stop there. If you have exposed cold water or hot water pipes in your basement, slip some insulation on those, too.
5. Look at your windows
Old windows can cause condensation. And water constantly dripping on your window sills can lead to wood rot. If that’s a problem in your home, evaluate the possibility of installing replacement windows.
There are many kinds and colors to choose from, and many reputable companies that sell and install replacements. Even the big-box home improvement stores now stock replacement windows, so it’s easy to check pricing and availability in your area.
Plus, new windows will help save energy, which in turn saves you money. And they can increase the value of your home if you decide to sell.
6. Sweep the chimney
This is a messy job, but someone has to do it. Call a professional chimney sweep for this dirty chore.
In addition to cleaning the chimney, the service usually includes checking for loose mortar, inspecting your damper, and making sure your chimney cap is secure. Schedule a chimney sweep every one to two years.
7. Spruce up
A fresh coat of paint not only makes your house look spiffy, but also protects the wood from the weather. Particularly watch for any areas of paint that are chipping or flaking. Repaint them pronto.
8. Hire the right help
You can probably handle many of your home’s maintenance needs on your own. But some home maintenance chores are just too big or too complicated (or both) to perform yourself. That’s why you need to know how to find reputable contractors. Try these ideas:
- Subscribe to Angie’s List
The list gives you detailed reviews on service providers such as plumbers, roofers, electricians, and even handymen. The reviews come from homeowners just like you, and companies can’t pay to be on the list. Use Angie’s List before you hire a contractor to find one suited to your needs, budget, and neighborhood. Subscription fees vary based on your location, length of subscription, and the types of reviews you want to access.
- Check online review sites
At online review sites, such as
Kudzu and
Yelp, you can search for home service providers for free. You’ll find reviews from fellow homeowners.
- Your neighborhood organization
Neighborhood organizations and homeowners’ associations often maintain lists of service providers that your neighbors use and trust.
- Ask for a friendly referral
Ask your family, friends, and business colleagues for names of trusted contractors. Be sure to look for contractors who have completed jobs similar to the one you need done.
- Ask for a professional referral
When you find service contractors you like, ask if they know other professionals that they would recommend. For instance, your favorite plumber might know a terrific fence installer. Or your go-to handyman may be able to recommend a top-notch roofer.
9. Use your Alliance benefits
Using just a few of your Alliance benefits can help you save money on a variety of home expenses. Check out these:
- Real Estate Transactions
Every penny counts when you’re buying or selling a home — especially in this real estate market.
With Member Benefit Services through Coldwell Banker, Alliance Members can now potentially save thousands of dollars on their real estate transactions.
Whether you’re buying or selling a property, Alliance Members can receive a 20-percent rebate on the selling or listing side of the real estate commission. This includes residential property, investment property, and land. And you’ll be matched with a participating agent who has expertise in your local market.
- Members Only Real Estate (MORE)
This national relocation program offers Alliance Members access to savings on real estate commissions for buying or selling property. Plus, you have access to:
- Discounted closing costs
- Mortgage savings
- Home insurance and warranty programs
- Savings on title services
- Home Insurance
Alliance Members may qualify for special program rates on home insurance from Travelers. The program offers:
- Low, competitive rates
- Convenient payment options
- No down payments
- A 24-hour claim reporting hotline
You can get a quick quote on program rates with a simple 15-minute telephone call. It’s fast, easy, and requires no obligation.
- North American Van Lines
If your family is preparing for an interstate move, take advantage of a special offer from North American Van Lines.
Alliance Members enjoy a discount of at least 50 percent on interstate moves. You’ll save money and avoid stress with these affordable moving services.
Benefits are updated periodically and Members should check the Web site at www.AffordableServices.org or call Alliance Member Services (800-733-2242) for the latest information. Benefit availability dependent upon membership level, package option and member’s state of residence, and may be subject to change. The benefits explained herein are offered at the sole discretion of the Alliance. If you have a question regarding benefit availability and details, please call Alliance Member Services at 800-733-2242.