NEW CONSTRUCTION WEEK
Avoiding Depreciation – Maintaining Your Home’s Value
Congratulations on your new home! Owning a new construction is an exciting milestone, but it’s important to understand that without proper maintenance, your investment may not appreciate as it should. Many new homeowners are unaware of the recommended maintenance costs, which typically range from 1% to 3% of the home’s value per year. While this may seem like a significant amount, it is essential to allocate funds for maintenance to address potential repairs and ensure your home retains its value.
As the years pass, several significant expenses can arise, particularly as the 15-20 year mark approaches. By planning ahead and setting aside funds for these future repairs and replacements, you’ll be better prepared and avoid financial surprises. Proper maintenance is the key to preserving your home’s value and avoiding unnecessary depreciation.
Determining which maintenance tasks you can handle on your own versus those that require professional assistance is crucial. Some tasks, such as changing the furnace filter every 3-6 months, can be easily done by most homeowners. However, more complex tasks like HVAC system servicing or gutter cleaning may require professional expertise and equipment. Make a list of the maintenance requirements for your home’s various systems and decide whether to tackle the work yourself or schedule appointments with qualified professionals.
While every home is unique, here are some general maintenance items that should be on your radar:
Gutters and Downspouts: Regularly check and clean gutters to ensure they are free from debris and functioning properly. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and affect the integrity of your home’s foundation.
Roof Inspection: Regularly inspect your roof for any signs of damage, wear, or missing shingles. Consider giving me a call for a professional inspection every few years to catch potential issues early. I always use my drone and also try to walk the roof to give the most complete information.
Exterior Maintenance: Check the exterior of your home for cracks, holes, or other damage. Promptly repair any issues to prevent further damage from the elements or intruding critters.
HVAC System: Schedule professional servicing and cleaning of your HVAC system to ensure optimal performance, energy efficiency, and safety.
Windows and Doors: Inspect and clean all windows and doors, including weather stripping and caulking, to improve energy efficiency and prevent air leaks.
Safety Devices: Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors regularly to ensure they are in proper working condition and replace batteries as needed. Test GFCIs monthly.
Foundation and Basement: Check for signs of moisture or water damage in the foundation and basement areas. Address any issues promptly to prevent structural damage.
Landscape Maintenance: Trim trees and shrubs that are touching the house or interfering with power lines to prevent potential damage and maintain the aesthetic appeal of your property. Ensure that water is draining away from the home and re-grade if necessary.
Furnace Filters: Regularly replace furnace filters to ensure efficient operation and optimal indoor air quality.
Dryer Vent Cleaning: Clear out dryer vent openings and consider having long dryer runs professionally cleaned to reduce the risk of fire hazards and maintain dryer efficiency.
Carpet Cleaning: Consider having carpets professionally cleaned on a yearly basis to keep them fresh, extend their lifespan, and maintain a healthy living environment.
Chimney Cleaning and Inspection: Have chimneys professionally cleaned and inspected yearly to prevent chimney fires and ensure proper functioning.
Pest Inspection: Schedule a yearly pest inspection to detect and address any potential pest infestations before they cause significant damage.
By incorporating these maintenance tasks and many more that are specifically relevant to your home into your calendar or to-do list, you’ll stay on track and prevent issues from escalating. Neglecting maintenance can result in costly repairs and decrease the overall value of your home. Remember, caring for your new home is a long-term investment, and by proactively maintaining it, you’ll enjoy its benefits for years to come.
Ready to add a few more important tasks to your list? Check this out.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Please schedule an inspection so we can talk maintenance any time!
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