You’ve likely heard that your house is an investment. However, you may not think about how this goes past the initial purchase. Now, you need to think about your future in this property. This helps you feel safe and comfortable while your family resides there and helps maintain or increase the value of the property for when you’re ready to sell. Here are some suggestions on investing in your house now when preparing for the future.
Maintain the HVAC System
The HVAC system is a critical component of your home. It does more than keep your residence warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It also prevents issues like mold from occurring in basements and other areas prone to humidity.
You never want to run your heating system or air conditioner without twice-a-year checkups. The original price you pay for a maintenance contract has an immense return on investment . For instance, a problem that would have caused severe damage to your AC could be detected and repaired ahead of time.
Take Care of Your Roof
Your roof is another vital but often overlooked part of the house. In addition to protecting you and your family from the elements and from pests, it insulates your home to keep it at a comfortable temperature all year long.
The standard asphalt roof can last a couple decades, which seems like a long time. However, it will only last that long if you take proper care of it. Keep an eye on your roof for torn or curling shingles, cracked or bent flashing, or other signs of roof damage, and have them repaired as soon as possible
Eventually, even the best cared for roof will wear out and need to be replaced. When you’re getting a roof replacement, choose the right material for your roof. Asphalt shingles have one of the shortest lifespans, and they’re not the best option if you’re prioritizing the environment. Metal and tile roofs often last longer, though they may be more expensive. Consider all of your options when you’re choosing a new roof.
Check Your Foundation
Another investment to look into is your foundation. Although it should remain stable throughout your time in the house, poor construction, ground shifts, and water damage cause potential and dangerous issues.
You know if foundation repair is needed when large cracks start to appear on its surface or you see water damage in the basement. Cracks in the corners of living spaces and an inability to close doors and windows are also signs of a foundation issue.
Xeriscape Your Property
In addition to maintenance, you also need to look at the carbon impact of your home when preparing for the future. Adding solar panels and composting are good ways to reduce your environmental imprint. Another way is to xeriscape your property.
This form of landscaping doesn’t require a great deal of irrigation. In fact, the rock gardens and succulent plants that replace portions of grass require little water to survive in any condition. Furthermore, xeriscaping adds an interesting aspect to your property.
Redo the Bathrooms
One of the home renovations with the highest return on investment is bathroom renovations. While you don’t need to gut every bathroom in the house, making some minor updates can go a long way in increasing your home’s value. Start updating the hardware on the vanity, update the backsplash, and replace the showerhead. These minor upgrades can literally pay for themselves when you’re ready to sell. They also make the home more enjoyable for you and your family while you live there.
While these investments in your house are important, don’t panic. There’s no need to take care of them at once. You’re preparing for the future, so thoroughly examine each one and prioritize according to your home’s needs and your budget.
