How to Take the Stress Out of Being a Homeowner
There are certain benefits to buying a home instead of renting. Over time, your monthly mortgage payments will begin to build equity, turning your home into a valuable financial asset. Owning a home also gives you the freedom to decorate and renovate however you choose. Furthermore, it's a more stable form of housing when compared to renting a home or apartment. But owning a home doesn't come without caveats, including increased stress and anxiety. Thankfully, though, there are ways to take the stress out of being a homeowner.
Professional Home Inspection
While most banks don't require buyers to get a home inspection when applying for a mortgage, it's still a smart investment that can help you uncover defects or areas of concern in your home. According to a survey conducted by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), 72 percent of homeowners say a home inspection helped them to avoid problems, and 64 percent said the inspection saved them money in the long run.
Outsource Lawn Care
As a homeowner, you are responsible for mowing and maintaining your lawn. Depending on the region in which you live, rain levels and other factors, you'll typically need to mow your lawn once every one to two weeks. But when you're busy working, doing chores and performing the countless other tasks associated with owning a home, you may find it difficult to pull out the lawnmower on a weekly basis. So, consider outsourcing this task to a professional landscaper or landscaping company. Professional lawn services will take this burden off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
Maintain HVAC System
There's nothing more stressful than trying to turn on your home's air conditioning on a hot summer day, only to discover that it's low of refrigerant or otherwise not working correctly. While heating ventilation and cooling (HVAC) systems may fail for any number of reasons, you can keep your functioning correctly by maintaining it. The DIY Network recommends cleaning the compressor fins and evaporator coil, changing the air filter and unclogging the evaporator drain on a regular basis. If this sounds like too much work, though, you can always hire a professional HVAC technician to give your system a tuneup.
Review Homeowners Insurance Policy
Do you know what's covered in your homeowners insurance policy? To avoid the stress of being hit with huge bills, you should review your policy. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), a standard homeowners policy will pay to repair or rebuild your house if it's damaged by fire, hail, lightning, or a hurricane. However, they won't pay for damage caused by a flood or earthquake. If you live in an area that's prone to flooding or earthquake, contact your insurance provider to see how much additional coverage costs. Even if you never use it, it will provide peace of mind knowing that you and your family are financially protected from unforeseen natural disaster.
Meet Your Neighbors
If you haven't done so already, walk over and introduce yourself to your neighbors. Not only will they feel more comfortable knowing who moved in next door, but you'll feel more comfortable knowing who's living next door as well. And if you ever need help while you're away -- feeding pets, checking the mail, or watching over your house -- your neighbors are more likely to assist.
Owning a home can be stressful. You must maintain the property and make mortgage payments every month. However, it's also a great way to build a future for you and your family. And if you follow the tips listed here, you can take some of the stress out of home ownership.
