2018 Home Resolutions
Welcome 2018! I don’t know how you feel, but I’m feeling pretty good about 2018. I, like many people, set up New Year’s resolutions this time of year. So I know we’re all good at working on them for a few months & then life gets in the way so we stop. We then spend the end of the year kicking ourselves for not following through & resetting the same resolutions for the following year. Our blog this month will focus on ways to help get your home in shape & maybe help you achieve those resolutions this year.
Clear the clutter. Go through room by room periodically & clear out things that you don’t use, don’t love & don’t need. Filling your room can make you feel cramped & drained. Having open spaces allows you to breathe a little better. Try it & see.
Safety is most important. We’ve touched on this before but we’re going to again. Make sure you are checking your detectors once a month, replacing batteries if need be & replacing whole detectors. Consider upgrading to newer models, add a co2 if you have access to gas or fire in the home. Consider a timer for lights for when you are not at home. There are many new safety items now that last longer & can even send alerts to your phone. Don’t forget to check those dryer vents. Lint can accumulate & cause house fires so take some time to clean those out as well.
Costs cutting measures. We’re always looking for ways to cut cost or pay down debt but continue to enjoy the modern comforts. Consider getting a programmable thermostat, energy efficient bulbs &/or appliances. Seal those doors & windows or replace them to keep in the heat in the winter & out the heat in the summer. Use the dishwasher or washing machine before bed instead of after dinner. Use a wash line as opposed to your dryer. Turn off power to lights, electronics & appliances when not in use. All these things will help with your electric costs & put money back in your pocket.
Work a weekly cleaning system. Clean your home throughout the week instead of one day this will help you to feel less stressed. It also opens up more free time during your days off to enjoy time to yourself. Enlisting the help of others who live in your home will make the work go faster. Taking care of things immediately like dirty wash in the hamper, washing dishes, etc. will keep the home neat & tidy.
A lot of us vow to see friends & family more every year. One low cost way is to have them over. Before doing so rearrange to have a nice flow to your home for guests. This is a low cost update that will make it inviting so they hang out for a while. You can also finish little remodels or create a new space with outside living. Just do what’s in your budget & not only will they enjoy the space but so will you.
We wish you all the best in working on those New Year’s resolutions! Until next month…
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