Break bad habits now to live a happier life and have a better bank account.

Long, steamy showers are a good idea. While 20 minutes spent in steam can be beneficial for your pores, it is also good for mold. While you sing in the shower, turn on the exhaust fan and squeeze your walls. Scrub the grout every few months. Grungy grout can be a turnoff to buyers. It is also difficult and costly to redo.

Keep out the sun. It might be smart to close your shades during winter. You want more insulation against the cold weather. Your energy bill is different. A sunny window can heat your home and reduce your heating bills. You may also notice a decrease of seasonal depression.

Obsessively looking for bargains. Although it feels great to find a bargain, cheaper is not always better. Budget purchases might end up costing you more long-term. Dollar paintbrushes can leave streaky marks that will require a costly re-do. When it comes to appliances, you should be willing to spend a little more, especially if you are thinking of selling your home. There are noticeable differences between the most affordable and the next-cheapest model. Buyers want to see stainless-steel.

A half-full dishwasher is a waste of water. If your dishwasher is full, it will waste water. Although dishwashers are more efficient than washing dishes by hand, they use less water than washing them by hand. However, most dishwashers still require the same amount of water, regardless of how many plates were used. This makes half-empty cycles significantly less efficient. A household with one or two people can wash their dishes once per day.

Mega mulching. Mulch too dense can cause root rot and invite invasive insects. Mulch should be loosely packed to protect your trees.

You are going on a remodeling spree. If your home is in dire need of serious, obvious work, don’t go on a remodeling spree three weeks after you move in. Before renovating, take the time to get to know your home. When you move in to a house, you don’t necessarily know what your needs will be. To find the right space, you should stay there at least six months. You’ll regret doing too much too quickly.

Pack-ratting. You understand clutter is bad but you can’t help but to do it. You were forced to keep the unused exercise bike in your spare room, even though it’s a space you don’t get to enjoy. One small task. You will feel satisfied when you have done one small thing. You will find it easier to do the next little thing.

Original Blog:  https://www.houselogic.com/save-money-add-value/money-saving-diy/preventive-home-maintenance/?cid=eo_em_ws_touch4