The quiet cost of putting off home repairs
THE HOME GUIDE · 06
The quiet cost of putting off home repairs
The biggest home costs are not always easy to see. A little care today can help you plan for tomorrow.
ABOUT 3 MINUTES TO READ
A QUICK LOOK · THREE THINGS TO KNOW
01 / START HERE
Look past the fresh paint
New paint can make a home look great.
02 / START HERE
Save for repairs
Most homes need work at some point.
03 / START HERE
Know when to call for help
A home check can find many signs of trouble.
A fresh coat of paint is easy to notice. An old roof or a slow leak is not. Some small home jobs can grow if they sit for too long. It helps to know which ones to watch, even if you have no plans to move.
PART 01
Look past the fresh paint
New paint can make a home look great. It will not fix a worn roof or a wet basement. Ask about the parts you cannot see on a short tour.
PART 02
Save for repairs
Most homes need work at some point. Set aside money for big jobs, even when nothing is wrong today. The right amount will depend on the home.
PART 03
Know when to call for help
A home check can find many signs of trouble. But some problems need a roofer, plumber or other expert. Ask for more help when a problem could be large.
A SMALL STEP YOU CAN TAKE
One thing to check today
List the age of your roof, heating system and windows. Add the last date each one was checked.
HOW TO USE THIS
If you are buying or selling
If you are buying
Ask about repair dates and the age of major parts. Plan for future work.
If you are selling
Keep bills and service records. Share what you know about work done on the home.
SAVE THIS LIST
Three questions worth asking
- What are the next three likely major expenses?
- Which systems have been serviced or replaced?
- What does a qualified inspector recommend checking further?
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