5 Easy Ways to Update Your Home
Buying a home is an exciting time. Even if you have years of experience in homeownership, it’s easy to get caught up in the possibilities of your new living space. As you consider your different renovation options, look for some easy wins to update your home without spending a lot. Here are a few projects you can take on as soon as you move in.
1. Service your HVAC system
Does your HVAC system feel sluggish? Do some rooms have poor air flow causing you to run the unit more frequently? A poorly-running HVAC system will have to run longer to cool your home. This drives up your electric bills while increasing the chances that something needs to be repaired.
One of the easiest ways to update your home is to call a technician to service your HVAC system. They will clean your indoor and outdoor unit while checking for any potential issues. Regular maintenance is a great way to protect your HVAC system and feel comfortable in your home.
2. Upgrade your water heater
Is there anything better than stepping into a hot shower after a long day? As a homeowner, you likely have dozens of design and improvement projects on your to-do list. The last thing you want is for your faucet to sputter with a weak stream or only deliver cold water.
A broken water heater is a liability. If you aren’t careful, it can flood your home. Consider replacing an old unit if it is starting to wear out. You can look into a tankless option to save space and energy. For example, if you’re located in New Mexico, there are plenty of companies that offer plumbing in Albuquerque that may specialize in tankless models.
3. Build a fire pit
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of the home. You likely spend most of your time in your living space and want to safely entertain friends and family that visit. Consider making modifications to turn your house into a party pad. A fire pit is a great option to do this. Everyone can huddle around the fire for warmth during the cold months or cook s’mores during the summer.
While you might be able to build a fire pit yourself, you can also find contractors that offer great service at reasonable rates. Ask for a free estimate to build a stylish and safe social area in your backyard.
4. Replace old appliances
You open your refrigerator every day—and likely use it multiple times a day. This means it’s a good idea to have an appliance that works well and won’t break down on you. Look at your common household appliances to see what needs to be updated. A larger refrigerator is ideal for families or homeowners who entertain. Similarly, a new washer or dryer can make doing laundry much more enjoyable. Replacing appliances is pretty easy and won’t break the bank.
5. Review your home inspection notes
Your home inspector likely marked down any broken parts or critical repairs in your home. If you aren’t sure where to start on your home upgrades, turn to their report. It’s a good idea to address any high-priority issues first and then move on to smaller problems. Making these repairs now can prevent them from becoming bigger issues in the future.
If this is your first time owning a home, you might feel overwhelmed by the amount of work that needs to be done to update your home. However, you need to take your time. Only work on one project at a time and know when to call a professional instead of trying to do it all yourself.
