No one wants to see their hard-earned money go down the drain OR waste valuable time with home repairs. Check out the 2nd half of our TOP 10 Home Maintenance Myths to see how you can SAVE MONEY AND TIME!
Myth #6: We Don’t Need a Stinkin’ Permit!
Fact: UUMM … Yes, You Do!
Let’s say your neighbor’s brother-in-law, Charlie, works for an HVAC company during the week. Over a weekend, he says he can install a new unit to save you money and the inconvenience of having to get a permit. Should you hire Charlie?? Getting a permit means a qualified inspector will check the overall installation and the components used to be sure they are compatible to the home’s existing system. Non-permitted installations in a home can also get in the way of a successful sale if your home is currently on the market. Check with your local planning or building department to find out if your next project requires a permit. If it does … GET ONE!
Myth #7: Save Money by Turning Your Air-Conditioner OFF When You’re Away from Home
Fact: Turning your air-conditioner OFF when you leave will probably COST you money
Think about it … When you turn the AC back on, all your savings will be lost as the HVAC unit works overtime to cool your hot house! A better way to save on utilities is to turn the thermostat slightly up or down (depending on the season) by 5 or 10 degrees when you leave. The best option would be to install a programmable thermostat that adjusts automatically. Better yet, purchase one that can be controlled remotely and adjust the temperature before you get home.
Myth #8: A Trendy Kitchen Remodel Will Increase My Home’s Value
Fact: Design trends “come and go” and can actually make a home look “dated”
Remember those Tuscan-style kitchens with mustard gold walls, ornate cabinets and medieval-looking light fixtures? Well today, they’re as dated as flip phones. Instead of completely remodeling the entire kitchen in the “latest trendy look”, consider re-painting the walls using your favorite trendy color and add coordinating accessories. If you do opt for a full kitchen remodel, choose timeless elements like shaker cabinets, wood floors and subway tile for your backsplash. That way, you’ll LOVE your kitchen 10 years from now.
Myth #9: Contractor Recommendations from a Friend Is Good Enough
Fact: Good contractors will gladly share references for past customers
Your friend’s recommendation is a good start but it’s always a great idea to talk to a couple of vendors before you hire anyone. Ask the contractor for the contact info of past customers, how many other projects they have going, how long they’ve worked with the subcontractors and if they routinely do projects the size of yours. Check with your local planning or building department to verify the contractor’s license status and qualifications.
Myth #10: Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) Cost Way Too Much Money
Fact: CFLs will SAVE you money over time
CFLs use 90% less energy, emit very little heat and last about 10x longer than incandescent bulbs. That all equates to dollar-savings to you and your family!
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Until then… it’s all about YOU!