As the new year kicks off, many people make resolutions centered around actions to take, such as increasing exercise, saving more money, or finally completing that lingering home improvement project. However, it is equally crucial to focus on actions to avoid, especially for homeowners. Steering clear of certain common mistakes can be as significant as setting ambitious goals for your household.
This article provides a list of "Six Reverse Resolutions" for 2025, aiming to help homeowners—both new and experienced—avoid potential missteps that could result in unnecessary stress, time, and financial loss.
1. Don't Put Off Routine Maintenance
The Maintenance Trap
Your home is likely your most significant investment, and neglecting basic maintenance tasks can lead to expensive issues later. You know how putting off oil changes can wreck your car? Your house works the same way. Those small maintenance tasks you're tempted to ignore - like cleaning gutters or changing HVAC filters - can lead to expensive problems later. Think of it like preventive medicine for your home. A $10 filter change now beats a $500 repair bill later.
Essential Maintenance Tasks:
- Gutter cleaning and inspection: Prevent water damage to your roof and foundation.
- Keep a routine to replace HVAC filters every 1-3 months - do it sooner if you have pets to optimize efficiency and improve indoor air quality.
- Check and seal cracks or gaps around doors and windows to prevent drafts and leaking.
Tending to these minor issues promptly is far more economical and helps keep your home both aesthetically pleasing and fully functional. This upkeep is especially vital if you plan to sell your home in the future.
There are a couple of other inspections you should consider which are more of a major issue:
Check Your Roof
Take some steps back on all sides of your house to visually check your roof. Check your ceilings for any small leaks you might not have noticed. If you have clay tiles you should try to see if any are cracked. We don't recommend walking your roof. We have a drone but we can see most of our roof tiles with just a visual inspection on the ground since we have a single-level home.
If you notice any ceiling leaks, tackle them while they're small. Get a roofer out there ASAP. A good roofer will offer to do small repairs if the entire roof doesn't need to be replaced. You might feel a small patch isn't worth what they charge, but keep in mind that a small leak can turn into a bigger, more costlier one.
Maintain Your Furnace and A/C
I feel this was more important when we lived in Illinois with our harsh winters and we had gas heat. HVAC companies offered annual furnace maintenance checks in IL. We don't have any services in Arizona and we don't have gas heat.
Don't Neglect Your 2nd Home
There are many people that own second homes in Scottsdale and other Phoenix areas. When we sold our second home, which was a Scottsdale townhouse, we had super high vaulted ceilings. We never noticed a water spot - we found out from the buyer's inspection. Our HOA took care of roof repairs so we contacted the management company to get our unit on the list. The buyer then had to wait for them to get to her unit.
When we sold a single-family home prior to that one we replaced the roof before putting it on the market. We didn't see any obvious leakage but we knew the roof was very old and something would have most likely come up in a home inspection.
We recently had one of our listings sold that was a second home and the buyers wanted the roof to be repaired. It was a clay tile roof and there were some issues. The buyers wanted it corrected but accepted a credit from the sellers since the sellers had moved all of their furniture out and had no intention of returning.
My brother owns a 2nd home in Scottsdale and hasn't been there in a long time. We will stop by once in a while if we're in his neighborhood just to do a quick walk-through. We found a broken-off clay roof tile that was on the roof's edge. On other visits we have found other issues.
The Phoenix area and other Arizona towns are popular for 2nd home ownership. Florida is another state, but they're not the only ones. When you own a 2nd home, especially in an area like Phoenix where temps get so hot, you need to make an effort to have your home checked for any issues. If you can, have a neighbor or handyman check the home once in a while and have them turn on faucets and flush toilets. With non-use, any rubber parts can disintegrate.
2. Don’t Procrastinate on Small Repairs
Leaving small issues unresolved can lead to bigger, more costly problems later.
Common Repairs to Address Immediately:
- Faucets that are leaking and tiles that are cracked.
- Cabinet handles that are loose or broken
- Doors that are squeaking (so annoying!).
- Areas where the paint needs to be touched up, interior or exterior.
- Minor grout repairs.
Even minor flaws can impact a buyer’s perception of how well the property has been maintained and can create a negative impression. Regular upkeep preserves your home’s appearance and protects your investment.
We're having guests next month and I noticed a dark spot on a small section of the grout in the basement bathroom. My husband Jimmy fixed it and you can't even see the repair. It looks so much better for my friends and if we were thinking of selling our home potential buyers wouldn't be questioning what caused the stain. However, we are going to replace the tub/shower with a nice, new walk-in shower at some point.
Consider setting aside a day each month to tackle these repairs and keep your property in excellent condition. For more complex tasks, such as electrical or plumbing work, do not hesitate to hire a professional. Trust me, future you will be grateful.
3. Don't Ignore Energy Efficiency
Energy Efficiency Matters
With utility costs climbing, ignoring your home's energy efficiency is like throwing money out of those drafty windows. Simple upgrades can make a significant difference in your monthly bills and overall comfort. Neglecting the energy efficiency of your home can result in higher utility bills and a less comfortable environment for living. Drafty windows, insufficient insulation, and outdated appliances can substantially reduce your home's efficiency, costing you hundreds each year. Additionally, homebuyers today often prioritize energy-efficient properties.
Simple Energy Efficiency Improvements:
- Swap old bulbs for LEDs to significantly reduce energy consumption.
- Install a smart thermostat to optimize heating and cooling schedules for maximum efficiency.
- Seal obvious air leaks.
- Energy Star appliances: Prioritize energy-efficient models when replacing appliances.
Depending on where your windows face in Arizona you might want to consider black-out curtain liners, blinds, or exterior window sun shields if you notice a room that gets hot from the sun.
Check with your utility company to see if there are off-peak hours. In the Phoenix area, our off-peak hours for electric use are prior to 4:00 pm and after 7:00 pm Monday through Friday. Weekends are off-peak the entire day and so are 12 holidays. We try to time when we wash clothes and run the dishwasher so it's during off-peak hours.
These energy-efficient changes not only lower utility bills but also reduce your carbon footprint and may qualify you for tax credits or rebates.
3. Don't Overcustomize Your Home If You Plan on Selling In the Near Future
The Personalization Paradox
While expressing your personal style is important, excessive personalization can hinder your home's marketability. Bold design choices, like a bright orange kitchen or a custom indoor slide, might not appeal to all buyers. Many prefer neutral spaces that allow them to project their own preferences and style.
When personalizing your home, consider temporary or easily reversible changes such as colorful throw pillows, rugs that make a statement, or unique artwork. These elements can express your personality without permanently altering the home.
But keep in mind, it's probably not best to create permanent artwork or structures in your home. If you're thinking of selling, listen to your agent if they suggest removing or replacing wall art that some buyers might find offensive. You will eventually have to pack these items up anyway, so if it is suggested that you remove them now, you'll be a step ahead when packing.
I had a cute cottage-style home with knotty pine windows and trim, knotty pine kitchen cabinets (it was my favorite kitchen) and a walk-in pantry with knotty pine paneling. It truly had a cottage vibe in a Chicago suburb. I had a lot of wall decor and when it came time to sell I removed some of it while de-cluttering. I liked it before but I realized how much "cleaner" it looked with the removal of some things.
With that said, if you aren't planning on selling your home anytime soon, do what makes you happy. If you love walls with color or carpet color choices that aren't neutral, just keep in mind that when you are ready to sell your agent might suggest that you repaint and possibly change your floor coverings. Enjoy it while you're living there but be prepared to change it when you're ready to sell.
4. Don’t Forget About Curb Appeal
Curb Appeal Isn't Just for Sellers
Your home's exterior is like its handshake - it makes the first impression. Regular maintenance doesn't just look good; it prevents costly repairs. Simple updates like fresh mulch, clean windows, and well-maintained landscaping keep your property looking sharp and protected.
Focus on maintaining your home’s exterior year-round. During colder months, keep walkways free of snow and ice (something we don't have to worry about in Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix area), add evergreen or other planters suitable for your climate, and ensure all outdoor lighting is working and is nice and bright.
In the warmer months, prioritize lawn care, fresh mulch, and planting seasonal flowers. Minor updates, like painting the front door or replacing house numbers, can significantly increase your property's value and appeal. In a prior house, we painted the front door (it needed it) and it made a big difference.
I've heard stories from friends recently and have personally experienced broken sprinkler system heads. My friend gave up and had a new system put in. Luckily, my husband can fix each issue individually. But there have been a lot of broken heads recently and it might be time for us to get a new system put in at some point.
The exterior of your home creates the first impression for guests or potential buyers if you're planning to sell soon. A neglected exterior can give the impression of a poorly maintained home, even if the interior is immaculate.
6. Don’t Wait Until Spring for Home Project Planning
Planning Ahead Pays Off
For homeowners not living in the Greater Phoenix area, many of them defer renovations to warmer months. No matter where you live, planning in advance can save both money and stress. In areas with four seasons, contractors and materials tend to be in higher demand during spring and summer, potentially increasing costs and leading to project delays. By scheduling professionals and ordering supplies in winter, you can often secure better pricing and availability. That is unless your furnace goes out...
If you have some major remodeling plans like a kitchen or bathroom renovation, do your research in advance. The same goes for refreshing and updating your landscaping. Early planning allows you to research and compare options thoroughly, minimizing the risk of project delays during busy seasons.
Avoid These Mistakes for a Smarter 2025
In addition to setting new goals, consider these crucial actions to avoid this year as a homeowner. Being a homeowner isn't just about making improvements - it's about avoiding these mistakes that can cost you time and money. By following these suggestions, you can ensure your home remains in optimal condition, minimize stress, and protect your investment for years to come. Proactive planning and regular maintenance are the cornerstones of successful homeownership.
Remember: Prevention is almost always cheaper than repair. Keep this guide handy as you navigate homeownership in 2025, and you'll thank yourself later.
This approach to home maintenance might seem overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into manageable tasks makes it much more doable. Start with the basics and build from there - your home (and wallet) will thank you.
Posted by Judy Orr on
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