As your trusted local home inspector in RI, MA, and CT, I’ve inspected hundreds of homes and uncovered a myriad of issues in the process. As a homeowner, it’s essential to consider the long-term well-being of your investment. Home maintenance plays a pivotal role in preserving your property’s value and preventing costly issues down the road. As your trusted local home inspector, I’ve seen my share of issues in homes. That’s why I’ve put together this list of 14 top tips to keep your home in great shape. I hope you’ll find this list useful for your own home, and, if you suspect any issues, CMS Home Inspection is here to help inspect your home for any potential problems.

The Importance of Home Maintenance

Regular home maintenance isn’t just a task; it’s a commitment to the longevity and value of your property. Here’s why it matters:

Preserve Property Value: Well-maintained homes retain their value and often appreciate over time. Neglecting maintenance can lead to a decline in your property’s worth.
Prevent Costly Repairs: Small issues can escalate into expensive problems if left unaddressed. Routine maintenance helps you catch and fix problems early, saving you money in the long run.
Ensure Safety and Comfort: Maintenance isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about safety and comfort. Regular inspections and upkeep can identify and resolve potential hazards and discomforts.

Essential Home Maintenance Checklist

For new homeowners, getting started with home maintenance can be overwhelming. After hundreds of inspections, we’ve come up with a list of 14 essential tips that can help you with regular home maintenance.

Here’s our checklist of essential tasks to help you stay on top of it all:

Inspect the Roof: Regularly check for loose or damaged shingles. Repair any issues to prevent leaks and water damage.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and foundation problems. Clean them at least twice a year.
Service HVAC Systems: Schedule annual maintenance for your heating and cooling systems. Clean or replace filters regularly.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test these life-saving devices monthly and replace batteries annually.
Seal Gaps and Cracks: Check for gaps or cracks in doors, windows, and walls. Seal them to improve energy efficiency and prevent drafts.
Inspect Plumbing: Look for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in the basement. Fix any leaks promptly to avoid water damage.
Clean Dryer Vents: Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct annually to prevent fire hazards and improve dryer efficiency.
Maintain the Lawn: Regularly mow the lawn, trim bushes, and remove debris. Consider seasonal fertilization and pest control.
Check Electrical Systems: Inspect outlets and switches for damage. Update outdated wiring if needed.
Clean and Inspect Chimneys: Have your chimney cleaned and inspected annually to prevent chimney fires and carbon monoxide leaks.
Service Appliances: Follow manufacturer recommendations for servicing appliances like the refrigerator, dishwasher, and oven.
Pest Control: Keep an eye out for signs of pests and schedule professional pest control as needed.
Inspect Attic and Basement: Check for signs of leaks or moisture in these areas, as they can lead to mold and structural issues.
Paint and Seal: Exterior paint and sealant protect your home from the elements. Touch up or repaint as needed.

Conclusion

Investing in a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make, and responsible home maintenance is your insurance policy for that investment. By following this checklist and staying vigilant, you can ensure your property retains its value, remains safe and comfortable, and avoids costly surprises down the road.

When considering a new home purchase, booking an inspection with CMS Home Inspection should be an essential step in the home-buying process. At CMS Home Inspection, we’re here to help you make informed decisions about your home. If you have questions or need guidance on your home’s condition, reach out to us anytime. Your home’s future starts with responsible maintenance today.

If you’re planning to buy a home, getting an appraisal and a home inspection are essential steps in the process. While both are similar – and arguably necessary – there are key differences between an appraisal and a home inspection. Here’s the breakdown of each and why they’re both important when buying a home.

Key Differences Between an Appraisal and a Home Inspection

An appraisal is a professional evaluation of the market value of the home you’d like to buy. In most cases, an appraisal is ordered by the lender to confirm or verify the value of the house prior to lending a buyer money for the purchase. It’s also a different step in the process from a home inspection, which assesses the condition of the home before you finalize the transaction.

Home Appraisal

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains:

“A home purchase is typically the largest investment someone will make. Protect yourself by getting your investment appraised! An appraiser will observe the property, analyze the data, and report their findings to their client. For the typical home purchase transaction, the lender usually orders the appraisal to assist in the lender’s decision to provide funds for a mortgage.”

When you apply for a mortgage, an unbiased appraisal (which is required by the lender) is the best way to confirm the value of the home based on the sale price. Regardless of what you’re willing to pay for a house, if you’ll be using a mortgage to fund your purchase, the appraisal will help make sure the bank doesn’t loan you more than what the home is worth.

This is especially critical in today’s market where low inventory has been driving an increase in bidding wars, which can push home prices upward. When sellers are in a strong position like this, they tend to believe they can set whatever price they want for their house under the assumption that competing buyers will be willing to pay more.

However, the lender will only allow the buyer to borrow based on the home’s value. This is what helps keep home prices in check. If there’s ever any confusion or discrepancy between the appraisal and the sale price, your trusted real estate professional will help you navigate any additional negotiations in the buying process.

Home Inspection

Here’s the key difference between an appraisal and a home inspection. MSN explains:

“In simplest terms, a home appraisal determines the value of a home, while a home inspection determines the condition of a home.”

The home inspection is a way to determine the home’s current state, safety, and condition before you finalize the sale. If anything is questionable in the inspection process – like the age of the roof, the state of the HVAC system, or just about anything else – you as a buyer have the option to discuss and negotiate any potential issues or repairs with the seller before the transaction is final. Your real estate agent is a crucial expert to help you through this part of the process.

Bottom Line

An appraisal and a home inspection are critical steps when buying a home, and you don’t need to manage them by yourself. At CMS Home Inspection, we have years of experience and understand the concerns regarding owning a home in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut.

Our thorough home inspections provide the tools necessary for you to understand the structure behind any potential property, as well as the necessary repairs for you to move forward with your purchase. A quality inspection report can mean the difference between owning your dream home and buying a house that falls short.

Let’s connect today so you have expert guidance to navigate the entire home inspection process!

Long-Term Home Maintenance: 14 Tips for Future-Proofing Your Investment

The Importance of Home Maintenance

Essential Home Maintenance Checklist

Conclusion

Key Differences Between an Appraisal and a Home Inspection

Key Differences Between an Appraisal and a Home Inspection

Home Appraisal

Home Inspection

Bottom Line

Make an Informed Decision for Your Future

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