As the New Year beckons, it's common for resolutions to fill our hearts and minds. Yet, statistics suggest that only a mere nine to twelve percent of individuals actually see these resolutions through, as per recent surveys. As a homeowner, it's imperative to consider some essential tasks that could positively transform your living space in the coming year. With this article, we offer valuable resources and advice that will assist you in maintaining a practical cleaning routine, minimizing energy usage in your home, and performing crucial winter home maintenance tasks with support from CrossCountry Mortgage.
Crafting a Practical Cleaning Regimen Establishing a sensible cleaning routine is a significant stride towards maintaining a tidy home throughout the year. It’s even more critical if you're planning on selling your home, as a clean living space is more inviting for potential buyers.
However, it's important to remember that setting unattainable goals and neglecting to track progress are primary reasons why people fail to adhere to their New Year's resolutions, as revealed by previous studies. This also rings true when it comes to maintaining a clean home. It's impractical to anticipate a perpetually pristine house. Instead, alleviate potential feelings of disappointment by setting feasible expectations from the outset.
So, what does an effective cleaning routine entail? Here are three steps to get you started:
Recognize Your Cleaning Patterns Creating a tidy home might seem daunting, especially after a long day when the last thing on your mind is cleaning. Invest time in cultivating cleaning habits that will streamline your daily tasks and significantly enhance your living conditions.
Daily cleaning tasks for an average household could involve making the bed, handling dishes, folding laundry, taking care of the pet, and sweeping the floors. By starting small, involving other household members, and rewarding yourself periodically, you'll find these activities become a normal part of your day, requiring little thought.
Devise a Feasible Cleaning Routine For those with a tight schedule, a practical cleaning routine can be a life-saver. By organizing your cleaning tasks into a schedule that fits your lifestyle, you can manage your cleaning tasks more efficiently. This could mean dividing chores into morning and evening tasks, daily responsibilities, and weekly duties. Remember, a clutter-free home alleviates stress and fosters a calm environment.
Involve Your Household Members Cleaning should not solely be your responsibility, especially if you live with others. Encourage your family members or roommates to lend a hand. This not only divides the workload but also instills essential life skills and boosts self-esteem, especially in children.
Involving others in cleaning can be accomplished by incorporating enjoyable elements, such as playing music or creating a fun game. In addition, setting clear guidelines regarding cleaning responsibilities can be beneficial.
Reducing Energy Consumption Reducing energy consumption is a triple win: saving money, enhancing energy security, and reducing pollution from non-renewable energy sources. To begin this process, scrutinize your utility bill. If your consumption exceeds the national average of 1000 kWh/month, you have ample opportunities for cost savings.
Some simple strategies include:
Purchasing energy-efficient appliances and electronics when replacements are needed. Using advanced power strips to minimize energy wastage when electronics are idle. Turning off lights when exiting a room. Shortening your shower time. Keeping doors and windows shut to prevent temperature fluctuations. Running your washing and drying machines with full loads only.
Prioritizing Seasonal Home Maintenance Consistently performing simple home maintenance tasks can save you considerable sums in the future, besides providing health benefits and improving energy efficiency. Here are some easily achievable home maintenance resolutions:
Check your furnace filter regularly. Clean and inspect your gutters and downspouts. Clean your dryer duct and filter after each load. Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms monthly.
For all your New Year's home resolutions to succeed, you need a reliable partner. You may consider having someone hold you accountable or consulting with your neighborhood Mortgage Advisor from CrossCountry Mortgage for expert advice. Here's to a prosperous New Year full of successful resolutions and transformations!
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