It’s been said that purchasing a home is the largest investment most families will ever make. And in today’s market, prices of new and existing homes are skyrocketing. Research by Motley Fool shows that the median existing-home price in the United States last June was $295,300, up 3.5 percent from the previous year. And homes are being snapped up often within hours of hitting the market. Buyers many times are offering more than the listing price and waiving typical contingencies in order to make a successful bid. Regardless of where in the United States a family lives, a mortgage payment can take up to 28 percent of a household’s pre-tax income. And depending on the mortgage terms, that payment can stretch to as long as 30 years. No matter how you look at it, it’s a huge bite out of the budget.
In addition, a house is more than a building. It’s Home Sweet Home. It’s where families grow and bond. Home is where memories that will last a lifetime are made. A home is as much a part of the family as their pets or other things that are close to the heart. Most of all, home is where a family establishes roots and feels grounded.
That’s why it is so important to protect a house so it can serve families for generations. Here are some tips to keep it in good repair:
- Have the electrical system checked regularly, particularly if lights flicker or there are any burning smells from electrical outlets. Also regularly review electrical cords for frays or breaks. Don’t run cords under carpets or in drop ceilings.
- Change the HVAC filters as required to keep the unit running efficiently and ensuring a long life span.
- Have the roof inspected every 10-15 years.
- Keep the gutters clean to prevent leaves and other debris from clogging the downspouts.
- Remove dead or decaying trees that could fall during a strong storm and damage the house.
- Keep drains clear of debris and running smoothly.
- Keep plumbing in good repair and clean mineral deposits from showerheads and faucets. Get any leaks, even small ones, addressed immediately.
The most important thing your association can do to help your members protect their homes is working with IMAC in developing and offering a home insurance package. We have the experience to create a program that will serve your members’ needs while generating an additional revenue stream for your organization. Home is where the heart is. Help your members keep theirs safe.