You’ve packed your bags, checked your list twice, and you’re ready to head out for the holidays. But before you hit the road, that little voice in your head asks: “Did I lock the back door?”
We’ve all been there: the mix of excitement and worry that comes with leaving home during the busiest travel season of the year. The good news? A little planning goes a long way toward keeping your home safe, secure, and energy-efficient while you’re away.
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In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the essential steps for first-time homeowners. They cover the importance of understanding how to operate and maintain a home, the significance of regular maintenance, and how to prioritize home projects based on inspections. The conversation also delves into budgeting for homeownership, including the total cost of ownership and the balance between DIY projects and hiring professionals. The hosts emphasize the need for preparation and awareness to navigate the complexities of homeownership successfully.
Takeaways
Homeownership is a journey that requires understanding and preparation.
Knowing how your home operates is crucial for effective management.
Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs in the future.
Creating a maintenance calendar helps keep track of necessary tasks.
Prioritizing projects based on inspections can save time and money.
Understanding the total cost of ownership is essential for budgeting.
DIY projects can save money but require time and effort.
Home inspections provide a snapshot but do not replace ongoing maintenance.
Engaging with neighbors can provide support and resources for home care.
Planning and budgeting for home projects is key to successful homeownership.
Sound bites
“Knowing how your home operates is crucial.”
“Planning for home projects is key.”
“Everything is a trade-off in homeownership.”
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Homeownership
02:56 Understanding Your Home’s Operations
05:50 Maintenance and Care for Your Home
11:56 Prioritizing Home Projects
18:06 Managing Home Expenses
23:52 The Total Cost of Homeownership
29:59 Becoming a Smarter Homeowner
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