October 22, 2015

VHDA’s Guiding Principles of Homeownership Offers Tips to Maintain Your Property [Part 3]

Now that you have bought your new home, you might be wondering, “What’s next?” VHDA’s Guiding Principles of Homeownership provides important information about maintaining your property. This information is aimed at keeping you on the right track. Here are a few tips about routine upkeep.

Routine upkeep of your home can identify and correct small problems that reduce the chance of developing bigger issues later. Don’t make the costly mistake of thinking, “Out of sight, out of mind.”

As a new homeowner, you should perform the following inspections annually (or more frequently, if needed):

  1. Basement or crawl space – Can produce moisture problems. Look for signs of stained walls or a white powder on the lower section. This could indicate moisture penetration.
  2. Doors and windows – Check from both inside and outside. Make sure weather stripping is present and in good condition to prevent moisture build-up. Also, check your locks to ensure that they are working properly.
  3. Floors – Take a lot of wear and tear. Proper cleaning, and placing area rugs inside every entrance, will catch water and debris, keeping your floors in better condition.
  4. Foundation – Be aware of water penetration created by improper grading. Water penetration should be corrected to prevent damage to the foundation. It is also important to check for cracks that mean the house is settling and could allow water to penetrate. 
To help homeowners learn more about home maintenance and saving money on minor repairs, the Virginia Cooperative Extension offers excellent home maintenance classes, free of charge. Check the VCE office nearest you for listings.
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