Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Time to make a reservation at that fancy restaurant where the portions are small and the prices high, and buy a dozen roses that will inevitably die the next day, along with chocolates that deceitfully have a walnut hiding under a layer of unassuming fudge and caramel.
You could buy into the Hallmark holiday or you can invest in something more long-lasting, like your home. This Valentine’s Day, show your home some love in ways that will boost its value or just make it a better place to live. Here are a few ways you can do that.
Clean It Up
Don’t wait until spring guilts you into giving your house a good clean. Break out the rubber gloves and deep clean your home now.
Take the extra time to address the areas you usually don’t clean, like your washing machine, microwave and other appliances. It might take a few hours out of your day, but the results will speak for themselves.
Organize a Problem Area
The entryway, the forgotten coat closet, the junk drawer – every home has a dirty little secret, an area where we throw miscellaneous items we don’t know how to organize (or let’s be honest, we don’t want to organize).
Cut the clutter and organize a problem area of your home. You don’t have to go full Marie Kondo to get your home neat and tidy. Just pick one area that you use often and needs a little pick me up.
Fix Something That’s Broken
Maybe you’ve been making it work until now, but if something is broken in your home, take time to fix it. Leaky faucet in your bathroom? Cut the dripping with this guide. Drafty attic? Maybe it’s time to replace your insulation.
Most minor repairs you can do DIY-style, but if you have the budget to tackle a larger fix, call a professional.
Give It an Upgrade
Is your home stuck in the 1970s with popcorn ceilings, shag carpet or wood-paneled walls? Maybe it’s time to bring your home into the 21st century by giving it an update.
Are your appliances on their last leg? When’s the last time you checked their birthdate? Consider upgrading your home appliances. New appliances will work more efficiently and might even save you money in energy costs.
These upgrades will not only make your home a more comfortable place to live but will yield a high return on investment (ROI) should you decide to sell.
Redecorate a Room
Style is always evolving. We’ve seen a change in interior home décor trends just in the last few years. If you’re looking to show your home some love, consider redecorating a room.
Or if you’re still stuck on last year’s trend, consider decorating your room with timeless home décor that will look good no matter the season or style.
Increase Its Curb Appeal
If you live in a state with a colder climate in February, it might seem like a bad time to address your home’s curb appeal, but it’s just as important as in any other season. Try adding a wreath and doormat to your front porch or entryway to dress it up.
If you live in a warmer climate, a low-effort, but high-impact project could be giving your garage or front door a fresh coat of paint. You’ll be surprised how it can change the look of your home.
Add Smart Technology
If you haven’t been checking out the latest in smart home technology, you’ll be surprised how much automation you can put into your home. Smart thermometers, home security systems and indoor lighting automation have all improved over the last few years.
Adding a smart device to your home could also make your home more energy efficient, saving you money and eliminating your carbon footprint.
Refinance the Mortgage
Rates have been holding at steady lows since the beginning of 2019. If you were waiting to refinance your mortgage to get or keep a low interest rate, now could be a good time.
Make sure you contact your lender to see if this would actually be a good option for you.
Make Sure It’s Protected
Have you looked at your home insurance policy lately? If you haven’t, the beginning of the year is a great time to reevaluate the needs of your home.
Winter can bring a lot of hazards. From frozen or burst pipes to roof damage from snow and ice, make sure your home is protected from dangers by contacting your home insurace carrier.
Show It Off
Last, but not least, show off your home to friends and family. You’ve put the work in, now take time to celebrate your efforts by hosting a Valentine’s Day-themed party.
Don’t get us wrong – you can still buy flowers and chocolates for that special someone, but on top of the holiday spectacle, look for ways you can show your home love this Valentine’s Day. You’ll be surprised how just a little work can go a long way.
How do you plan to show your home love? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
The post 10 Ways to Show Your Home Some Love this Valentine’s Day appeared first on ZING Blog by Quicken Loans.
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