It’s not really a secret that being a homeowner comes with a lot of responsibilities; it’s something so exciting, especially nowadays when it feels more like an impossible feat. But in this joyous-yet semi-stress journey, you need to keep in mind there are limits. There’s always the journey of adding value to your home. Sure, with it just standing there, that technically adds value; maybe not constant, but it does add some value.
But generally speaking, you’re still going to have to keep your home in a constant good state (and even better) so the value goes up. In fact, in some neighborhoods and HOA areas, you have no choice but to do this. On top of that, you need to keep in mind that being a homeowner, especially a new one, means there will be mistakes.
While yes mistakes are completely common, there are some that are harmless; however, not all of them are. In fact, some mistakes can have long-term consequences that affect the value and integrity of your home. But you’re not always going to realise that you’re doing something wrong; you’re not always going to realise that you’re actually causing some potential damage. So, with that said, here are some common mistakes that new homeowners make that they totally don’t realise!
Neglecting Regular Maintenance
This one probably doesn’t come as a surprise because new and old homeowners seem to be guilty of this. But this is still one of the most common mistakes new homeowners make: neglecting regular maintenance tasks. At first glance, a lot of them don’t seem like a big deal, right? A lot of them seem like they’re more for aesthetics than anything else- but that’s where you’d be wrong!
Failing to perform routine maintenance, such as gutter cleaning, servicing HVAC systems, and inspecting for leaks, can lead to costly repairs and decreased property value over time. Basically, neglecting any of these will only make the problem worse, and some of these can just flat-out be dangerous, too, if they’re not done (and especially not done correctly). Regular upkeep is essential for preserving the condition of your home and protecting its long-term value; plus, it’s cheaper doing it if you have a regular maintenance schedule anyway.
Overlooking Water Damage
If you’re a new homeowner, you absolutely need to pay close attention to this one! Water damage is a silent threat that can wreak havoc on your home if left unchecked. Seriously, this one can cause immense damage to the point that your home might even be too dangerous to live in (if this isn’t taken care of in time).
Unfortunately, so many new homeowners often overlook signs of water damage, such as dampness, discoloration, or mold growth, assuming it’s a minor issue. But this isn’t a minor issue; this isn’t something that you can easily clean up and go about your life. Seriously, water damage can cause structural damage, rot, and mold infestations, significantly reducing your home’s value and making it unlivable too.
Making DIY Repairs
While tackling DIY repairs can be tempting to save money, it’s essential to proceed with caution, especially if you lack the necessary knowledge and skills. In all honesty, making amateur repairs or modifications without proper guidance can cause more harm than good, leading to safety hazards or code violations that lower your home’s value. Is this something that’s actually worth it at the end of the day? Probably not!
