New Year, New Home: 5 Resolutions for Homeowners in 2025

Dec 31, 2024Home Hacks, Seasonal

Whether you’re settling into your first home or you’ve been a proud homeowner for years, 2025 is the perfect time to give your home some extra TLC. From enhancing safety to sprucing up your space, these resolutions are all about starting the year on the right foot—and keeping your home in great shape all year long. 

    1. Get Ahead on Maintenance  

    Let’s face it—something always breaks at the worst time. In 2025, stay ahead of potential headaches: 

    • Tackle the Basics: Check for drafts around windows and doors, clean out dryer vents, and inspect your roof for any loose shingles. These quick fixes can save you money in the long run.
    • Inspect and Detect: Check your roof for loose shingles, clean out those gutters, and make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order. Bonus if you test them with those exciting fire drill practice runs for the family. 
    • Plan for Big Expenses: Set aside some funds for inevitable home repairs. Trust us, future-you will be grateful when the water heater decides to quit unexpectedly.
    • Set Reminders: Use your phone or calendar to schedule simple tasks like replacing HVAC filters, cleaning gutters, and testing smoke alarms. 

    2. Make Your Home Safer 

    Your home should be your safe place, and the start of the year is the perfect time to give it a safety upgrade. 

    • Upgrade Your Locks: Upgrade to smart locks that let you control access from your phone, track who comes and goes, and avoid worrying about lost keys. 
    • Light it Up: Add outdoor motion-sensor lights to keep burglars away and prevent you (or guests) from tripping on the porch steps. Brighten up dark corners of your yard with solar-powered lights. They’re eco-friendly, and perfect for enhancing security. 
    • Consider a Security System: If you don’t already have one, invest in a modern security system with cameras, motion detectors, and app-based monitoring. It’s like having peace of mind at your fingertips.  
    • Backup Power: Invest in a generator or battery backup system to keep essentials running if the grid goes down.

    3. Refresh Your Space

    Make your home your happy place. Even a few small updates can make a big difference! 

    • DIY on a Budget: A fresh coat of paint, swapping out cabinet hardware, or adding a fun backsplash can completely transform a room without draining your wallet. 
    • Bring the Outdoors In: Add a few low-maintenance houseplants (hello, pothos and snake plants) to improve air quality and brighten up any room. Plus, they’re way easier to keep alive than sourdough starters. 
    • Rearrange and Refresh: Move your furniture around for a fresh perspective or invest in some cozy throws and pillows to up the comfort factor.  

    4. Go Green and Save

    Want to help the planet and save some cash? Here’s how: :

    • Start with an Energy Audit: An energy audit helps identify where your home is losing energy (and money). Drafty windows, leaky doors, or poorly insulated attics might be sneaky culprits.  
    • Switch to LEDs: LED bulbs use less energy and last longer than traditional ones. Bonus—they make your electric bill happier too. 
    • Reduce Water Usage: Opt for low-flow showerheads and faucets to reduce water waste – without sacrificing water pressure. Make sure to check your plumbing pipes for any leaks, and take care of any leaky faucets as soon as they pop up.  

    Your home is more than just four walls; it’s where memories are made, and it deserves a little TLC. Whether you’re upgrading, organizing, or securing it, these resolutions will set you up for a happy, safe, and efficient year ahead.

    Happy New Year!