The Homeowner Checklist for the New Year
January 1st will bring in a new year, a new decade and a ton of opportunity for homeowners. While the first month of the year is typically cold, wet and filled with sunsets that come too soon, even in Huntersville, NC, it’s also a good time to focus on your home. That’s why we’ve created a helpful homeowner checklist to help you ring in the new year.
1. Say goodbye to the tree respectfully
Sooner or later, your Christmas tree is going to have to go to greener pastures. How you dispose of it matters, though. There are several eco-friendly ways to dispose of that beautiful pine that you should consider.
2. Pack away the holiday décor
There’s a part of you that may be looking forward to packing away the tinsel, ribbon and ornaments and return to the ordinary days. Always pack fragile keepsakes delicately and store them in a cool, dry location.
3. (Re)winterize your home
By this point, most homeowners have done their due diligence and done the usual winterizing tasks including attic insulation, reversing the ceiling fans, etc. However, January is a great time to take some extra steps including replacing door weather stripping, installing a cost-saving thermostat and more.
4. Asses your exterior
Winter can be hard on your home. Take the time to walk around the outside of your house to check on its exterior. There may be some important areas that need attention including cracked siding, frozen faucets and more.
5. Check out your internal hardware
Since you’re spending time inside, it’s a great time to do an audit of your home’s hardware, including lighting fixtures, door handles and more. Make a list and determine which areas need the most attention.
6. Declutter and destress
While homeowners in Huntersville have plenty of events to enjoy in January, you’ll most likely spend a lot of time with your family indoors. While this is an opportunity for great memories, clutter happens quickly. Keep stress down by decluttering when possible.
7. Donate your duplicate gifts
Another thing that clutters a home quickly are “duplicate” gifts and those gifts that, while were nice, aren’t your style. You might as well donate them to a good cause so they can bring a smile to someone else!
8. Change out the filters
New year, new filters! Change out those air filters, furnace filters and everything in between. It’s a great chance to start fresh and bring clean air into your home.
9. Clear and clean the bathrooms
Don’t forget about the room where everyone visits. Clear out any old items and give it a good cleaning. Don’t wait for spring cleaning, do it while colds and flus are still running amok to promote a healthy home.
10. Boost the brightness
Last but not least, get some sunshine! No, we didn’t forget that it’s the dreary month of January. You can get a sunlight lamp or sunlight-replicating bulbs to add a bit of brightness (and, as some studies suggest, happiness) to your home.
It won’t be long until the sun is shining, the flowers are blooming and the Bryton pool is open once more! Until then, bundle up, get a cup of hot chocolate and complete this checklist!
