Home Maintenance -How to keep your homes value
Don’t wait till it breaks!
Don’t procrastinate when it comes to your biggest investment, your home. Failing to perform home maintenance chores might require a call to your handyman or lead to more drastic (and expensive) repairs down the road. Ignoring signs of deterioration often causes permanent damage that will degrade the value of your home. Below are some must-do regular maintenance chores to ensure you keep its value and save money:
Fix water leaks promptly
The smallest plumbing leak can compound over time and lead to a costly repair – not to mention penalties for over-consumption on your municipal bill. Water damage can cause hardwood and laminate floors to warp, create a breeding ground for mould and mildew, and stain walls and ceilings.
Sometimes it’s as easy as changing a washer. But if you suspect your pipes are leaking, you need to call a plumber to get the problem fixed before it gets worse.
The same is true for roof leaks. If you notice any water dripping or stains on your ceiling, call a roofer to assess the situation.
Clean out your gutters
With Autumn upon us, this should be a priority. Gutters clogged with leaves can lead to roof leaks, foundation problems and rotten fascia boards.
Check Electrical Outlets
It’s important to check over all electrical outlets in your home once a year. You’ll want to be on the lookout for plugs that fit loosely, frayed wires, faceplates that feel hot, and outlets that don’t work, as these can all be potential fire hazards or indicate that your wiring may need to be updated. If you find any issues with your electrical outlets, call an electrician for help in repairing any damage
Suggested for you:
Check appliances
Any appliances with water lines, gas lines, or attached hoses should be inspected at least once a year. This helps you to discover leakages, tears, or other damage that may need to be repaired or parts that need to be replaced.
Inspect Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are vital to have in a home. Each year, make it a point to check the expiration date on any and all extinguishers in your home. If any are past their expiration dates, replace them with new ones.
Treat your wood
Manufacturers recommend that you treat your wooden windows and doors annually, however, for our harsh South African climate, experts recommend that you treat them just before the rainy season and again before the sunny season.
Inspect walls and foundations
Is any paint chipping? Are there any holes in your brick or plaster? Take a close look around your house and make any repairs as needed. Remember to check the foundation for cracks.
Be sure not to ignore these home maintenance chores.
Latest…
General, Lifestyle
Showing off on show day
Although many prospective buyers test the market online these days, most want to physically visit and experience a property before making one of the biggest investment decisions of their lives. This means that show houses are just as important as ever, says Tyson Properties CEO,...
Read MoreGeneral, Lifestyle
An expert guide to purchasing property from a deceased estate
Purchasing a property from a deceased estate is no ordinary property transaction. While there might be a great opportunity to buy a home at an attractive price, it’s essential to understand the complexities involved, including the possibility of prolonged waiting periods, says Andrea Tucker, Director...
Read MoreGeneral, Lifestyle
How financial institutions can assist with easing the burden of bond repayments
Purchasing a home is a significant financial commitment that requires careful planning and long-term dedication. When taking out a bond or mortgage, potential homeowners agree to repay the borrowed amount with interest over a specific period. Managing bond repayments is crucial for maintaining a good...
Read MoreGeneral, Lifestyle
Designing the ultimate backyard entertainment area
Summertime is synonymous with outdoor gatherings, garden parties and the national South African pastime, the ubiquitous braai and creating the ultimate backyard space for these occasions not only enhances your enjoyment of your home, but also its value. “We’re blessed with the perfect climate for outdoor...
Read MoreGeneral, Lifestyle
Experts unpack residential rental challenges
While the demand for residential rentals in South Africa is rising, so is the number of defaulting tenants. The depressed economy, interest rate hikes, and the pandemic’s lingering impact on jobs and income, are contributing to an increasing number of South Africans failing to pay...
Read MoreGeneral, Lifestyle
How load shedding is impacting the property market in South Africa
Load shedding continues to significantly reshape the attitudes of homeowners, and the expectations of buyers and sellers, in the South African property market. This is according to Renier Kriek, Managing Director at Sentinel Homes. “Enjoying one’s home to the greatest extent possible during blackouts and...
Read More
No Comments