Stocks, bonds, 401k, Roth IRA, and retirement plans. Planning for your financial future is important. However, let's not forget that your home is an asset too. Like a stock, your home can appreciate in value. As a homeowner, here are two things I have done...
Clean, clean, and clean
Cleaning is a chore that most people avoid. However, it should be done weekly to ensure things don't spiral out of control. One thing you can do is create a weekly calendar notice to do certain tasks. For example, you can dust weekly, vacuum every other week, clean the windows once a quarter, and professionally shampoo the carpets yearly. Doing things is small tasks makes it easier and less overwhelming.
On a side note, cleaning is easier if your home is decluttered. If you see something that you aren't using, donate it or throw it away. This can be clothes, furniture, kitchen items, to old shoe boxes. Think of it this way. If you wanted to sell your house, it's best to show it clean and tidy. Likewise, if you were looking to buy a house, you might be turned off if a home is dirty and cluttered.
Remodel
Since being a homeowner, I've budgeted small remodel parts. Rather than being scattered brain, I've decided to tackle all things relating to water. This includes replacing my main shutoff valve, all the angle vales, installing a new toilet, bathroom counter top, new faucets, and a new p-trap, and purchasing a new washer-dryer. In the next few years, I'll be looking to replace my water heater too.
For some reason, most homeowners don't understand the risks of water damage. When was the last time you checked if your angle valves actually work? When a leak happens, you want to stop the flood immediately (especially if you live in a condo).
Doing practical repairs like this can give you peace of mind. In addition, when you eventually sell, you'll have to disclose all the repairs you have done. This is a positive thing since it shows how proactive you were.
-Roda