It’s that time of year where we all make lists and resolutions with the best of intentions. Here are a few simple resolutions you can make (and keep) to maintain and enhance the value of your home. Maintaining the value of your home is essential in the current real estate market. By doing a few simple things on your own and engaging a qualified contractor when needed, you can be sure to receive the maximum value for your home if and when you decide to put it on the market.

Keep a record of what you have done to your home.

Time slips away from us far too quickly. If you don’t file your receipts away in a central location, it’s hard to remember how many years it has been since you made those important home repairs. Things like receipts are particularly important when a warranty issue comes up. Since items like a roof are usually guaranteed for 20 to 30 years, it’s important to know when you replaced it. Create a filing system that works for you and use it. Keep a log of maintenance and keep receipts. If you feel keeping all that paper will bog you down, invest in a scanner and scan all contracts, documents, and receipts. Just be sure to keep a back up copy.

Make a list! (or two!) of items that need to be addressed.

Make a list of all the critical home improvement items that need to be tackled first. These items might include things like a toilet that is hard to flush, a leaky roof or exposed electrical wiring. Number this list in order of importance and then decide if this project requires the services of a contractor or trade professional or if this is something you can do yourself. Next, make a list of the less critical items or wish list items. Things like fixing a squeaky step or replacing the carpet are items that don’t pose a safety risk to you or your home and can go on a different list. Tackle the high priority items first and then set goals to tackle the less important items.

Before you tackle any job yourself, know your limits! Be sure this is something you are comfortable doing and make sure to know what codes and rules your municipality or home owners association have regarding the work. You will spend more money hiring a contractor to fix your mistakes than hiring one at the beginning of a project.

Do Regular Maintenance

Create a schedule of items that need attention and stick to it. Pick one weekend a month to dedicate to things like replacing air filters, cleaning dryer vents, checking gutters, and inspecting weather stripping. You should schedule and prioritize items seasonally. For example, checking weather stripping on windows and doors isn’t a huge priority during the spring months when they are open anyway, but by the end of September, you will want to make sure those items are checked and repaired/replaced. Creating a calendar of scheduled maintenance and sacrificing one Saturday afternoon a month for small repairs could save you lots of time and money in the future.

Go Green!

Investigate ways that you can become more energy efficient and start a plan to implement those items. While upgrading appliances, windows, doors and insulation will save major dollars, things like swapping out light bulbs and caulking air leaks are quick ways to start saving money on your energy bill.

By keeping these four simple resolutions, you can easily maintain your home and enjoy the New Year! Happy 2012 from Highlander Construction and Development!