Becoming a homeowner is an exciting milestone, but owning your own home also involves a number of responsibilities. One priority for many homeowners, especially those who may choose to sell in the future, is keeping their homes updated and modern. What that means can look different though, depending on where you live, what your design budget is, and what types of changes you’re hoping to make.
There’s a lot you can do without needing to spend much at all, and doing some of your design work yourself can have the dual benefit of saving you time and creating a unique look that you put together from the ground up. If you’re looking to make some home improvements, read on to learn more about some easy DIY home and garden projects that will keep your house up to date.
Why should you keep your house up to date?
You might find yourself asking what the point of investing so much into your home is, especially if you don’t have plans to sell. First, maintaining your home well is essential if you want to avoid unexpected bills for repairs. Your home systems, especially your HVAC, require attention in order to continue to operate at peak efficiency. Your HVAC should be inspected at least once annually, and have the filter changed every 90 days. A dirty air filter can let in all kinds of pollution and contaminants, and inefficient operation can increase the cost of your utility bills. If it’s been more than 10 years since your system was replaced, it may be time for a new one.
It’s also worth noting that if you ever choose to sell, it’s much more affordable to only need a few select upgrades, rather than trying to modernize a home that hasn’t been improved or renovated in over a decade. You don’t need to have a move on the horizon to understand that it’s better to be prepared for a future sale.
What projects should you prioritize for your home?
Major home systems like your HVAC should always be at the top of your list, especially due to the outsize impact they have on your health and comfort. Look for any indications that you have an inefficient AC, including higher utility bills, unpleasant odors in your home, and inconsistent indoor temperature. If you notice any of these problems, it’s a good idea to have an HVAC technician inspect your system as soon as possible. Repairs on things like your heating and cooling system are one of the things you should never “DIY”, as the results can be dangerous and expensive to fix if something goes wrong.
Now, when it comes to projects that you can participate in, it’s a great idea to start with your garden. Glasshouses can be a beautiful investment for those who love greenery, and building a garden is the perfect DIY project for any family to work on together.
Indoor décor can also be fun to create yourself. There are a variety of craft kits you can buy to help you design everything from custom tiling to wall art, though you don’t need a kit to come up with some projects your whole household can do together. If there’s a room in your home that’s unfinished, empty, or dull, brainstorm a way to liven things up. The only limit you have is your imagination.
There are many routes you can take when it comes to home design and maintaining a modern home, though it’s a good idea to balance projects that improve your quality of life with projects that add value to your home’s equity. Repairs on expensive technology, like your plumbing or your HVAC system, should always be left to trusted professionals, but there are ways to improve your home that you can handle yourself. Design projects like gardens and wall décor present a perfect opportunity to get everyone involved. With a combination of professional expertise and DIY creativity, you can make smart and inventive additions to your home that will provide benefits both immediately and in the future.
