Making a New Year’s resolution stick each year is one of life’s rituals and some of us are better at the challenge of them than others.
Commonly, we make resolutions for our own benefit. But it’s easy to then treat them as disposable because they’re only for us. So, for 2023, why not adopt a different strategy and declare a New Year resolution for your home?
Well-maintained properties retain value in the down times and are the fastest to appreciate when the market strikes more positive notes.
And one bonus is that most maintenance will ensure you stay active – so maybe your health resolutions will also be met!
Replace filters
There are a handful of tasks most of us do our best to avoid. So, for 2023, let’s tackle these head-on: Replace the filters in your HVAC system, scrub clean or replace grease filters in your kitchen range hood, dig out lint in your washing machine and dryer, clean the bathroom exhaust fan, and remove dirt and dust from ceiling fans.
A few touch-ups
Walk around the exterior of your property and check the state of the paintwork. Fix up any areas that have started to flake or peel. For the small jobs, a light sanding and two coats of paint will be sufficient.
Mulch and mow
Put specific times in your diary for garden maintenance. By scheduling this task, it won’t feel like you have an unending list of minor jobs that wipe out your weekends. Once a quarter, chop back trees or bushes encroaching on the property and weed the paths.
Cut the clutter
Even if you’re not personally trying to shed a few pounds, you can still rid your home of some unwanted weight. Clean out the garage, purging old bikes the kids no longer ride, scooters, unused sporting equipment and furniture no one wants to inherit and donate it to charity. Indoors, focus on your wardrobes, kitchen cupboards for appliances you never use and old toys that can go to a new home.
Make cleaning easy
It’s crazy how the laundry becomes increasingly disorganized as the year passes by. In most homes, they’re a magnet for clutter, which is ironic given it’s a room dedicated to cleaning. Also, assess whether you should update the washing machine and dryer. If you’re feeling ambitious, install modern cupboards that you can self-assemble.
Kitchen capers
Check the surface of your non-stick pots and pans. If the Teflon or aluminium is worn or flaking, you’ve got a potentially toxic hazard on your hands. Send them to the trash now! Purge old plastic containers, too, as these can retain chemicals, stains and smells from old food. Glass is best for food storage.
Cold, hard fact
Your fridge doesn’t look after itself. Schedule time to clean it monthly, throwing out jars of untold substances and nasty-looking veggies at the bottom of the crispers. Wipe it down using a vanilla-scented cleaning spray. Pull it away from the wall every six months and wipe down the coils to ensure it operates efficiently.
I would like to wish you and your family a safe and Happy Holidays. If I can help you with your property needs, please do not hesitate to contact me.