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New Year’s resolutions for your home


Blog by Kim Twohey | December 29th, 2015


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Forget dieting or heading to the gym.  This year, try something different and set a few New Year’s resolutions for your home.  For many of us, our home is one of our biggest investments and it makes sense to protect that investment.  Here are some resolutions to consider for the upcoming year. 

Safety first

This year, resolve to make safety a priority.  Check and replace batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every 6 months.  Test them regularly to ensure they are working properly.  Have your gas appliances checked this year, as well.  Use your calendar to remind you to change your furnace filter on a regular basis. 

Stay on top of home repairs

We all have things around the house that need some TLC.  Stop procrastinating and make a plan to repair one thing every month in your home.  I guarantee you will be pleasantly surprised at how good it feels to get these things off your to-do list. 

Pay a little extra on your mortgage

If you can, make extra mortgage payments throughout the year.  Additional payments come directly off the principle amount.  Check with your bank to find out how much you can pay without penalty.  Even just $20 per month makes a difference.

Go green

Find areas around your home where you can go green.  Here are just a few ideas:

-  Use a programmable thermostat,

-  Install a low flow toilet or shower head,

-  Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs,

-  Hang dry more clothes,

-  Reuse and upcycle,

-  Recycle and compost,

-  Turn off or unplug appliances when not in use, or

-  Use a rain barrel to collect water for your garden.

Review your home insurance policy

Take a little time to review your home insurance policy to make sure that it accurately reflects the value of your home and contents.  You need to confirm that you are covered for common causes of loss such as natural disasters, theft, and fire.  Talk to your insurance agent to find out what type of coverage you need for the interior of your home, the exterior of your home, and personal property.  Ask about coverage for general liability that will protect you if a person is injured while they are on your property. 

Do you have any resolutions for your home?  Share them with me on Twitter!