The Perks of Buying over Renting

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  The Perks of Buying over Renting Thinking about buying a home? While today’s  mortgage rates  might seem a bit intimidating, here are two solid reasons why, if you’re ready and able, it could still be a smart move to get  your own place . 1. Home Values Typically Go Up Over Time There’s been some confusion over the past year or so about which way  home prices  are headed. Make no mistake, nationally they’re still going up. In fact, over the long-term,  home prices  almost always go up ( see graph below ): Using  data  from the  Federal Reserve  (the Fed), you can see the overall trend is home prices have climbed steadily for the past 60 years. There was an exception during the 2008 housing crash when prices didn't follow the normal pattern, but generally, home values kept rising. This is a big reason why  buying a home  can be better than  renting . As prices go up and you pay down your mortgage, you build  equity . Over time, this growing equity can really increase your net wort
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February Home Maintenance Checklist: Preparing Your Home for a Smooth Transition

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February serves as a pivotal time to ready your home for the shift from winter's grasp to the budding promise of spring. It's an opportune moment to conduct thorough inspections, address lingering winter issues, and prepare your home for the upcoming season. Here's a comprehensive checklist to guide your February home maintenance routine:

1. HVAC Systems:

Inspect Heating Systems: Ensure your heating system is in top condition. Replace filters, check vents, and consider scheduling professional maintenance to optimize efficiency.

2. Exterior Check-Up:

Roof and Gutters: Examine the roof for any damage or loose shingles. Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages and ice buildup.

Seal Drafts: Check for drafts around windows and doors, sealing any gaps to conserve energy and keep your home cozy.

3. Plumbing Review:

Check for Leaks: Inspect pipes for leaks or signs of water damage. Repair leaks promptly and insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing.

Sump Pump Testing: Test your sump pump (if applicable) to ensure it's working properly, especially in preparation for potential spring rains.

4. Fire Safety:

Test Alarms: Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries if needed, to ensure they're in working order.

5. Outdoor and Garden Prep:

Pruning: Trim dead branches from trees and shrubs to encourage healthy growth in the coming season.

Prepare Garden Beds: Clear garden beds of debris and add compost to prepare for spring planting.

6. Interior Maintenance:

Deep Cleaning: Dedicate time to a thorough cleaning session, focusing on overlooked areas like baseboards, vents, and behind appliances.

Appliance Check: Inspect and clean appliances such as refrigerator coils, dryer vents, and dishwasher filters for optimal performance.

7. Safety Checks:

Emergency Kit Review: Take inventory of emergency supplies and review household emergency plans with all family members.

8. Seasonal Precautions:

Snow and Ice Removal: Keep walkways and driveways clear of snow and ice to prevent accidents.

Outdoor Lighting: Check and replace any burnt-out bulbs in outdoor lights for safety and security.

9. General Inspections:

Attic and Basement: Inspect these areas for signs of pests, water leaks, or insulation issues.

Adhering to this February home maintenance checklist will equip your home to transition seamlessly from the winter cold to the blossoming spring. By addressing these tasks now, you'll ensure a comfortable, safe, and well-prepared living space for the months ahead.

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