The beginning of the New Year is the perfect time to start planning for home projects. Maintenance projects are a great way to keep your space comfortable, functional and possibly add value to your home. Not all projects are boring chores. Adding new space to your kitchen or sprucing up your décor can be fun and rewarding.  Here are a few New Year’s resolutions for your home: 

Increase square footage. When it comes to increasing the value of your home, adding “livable” space such as a bedroom or bathroom can make a difference.. When you’re ready to expand your space, contact the Central WA Home Builders Association to find and consult with a builder. A residential construction professional can provide guidance on the feasibility of your project, estimates, zoning, building codes and the permitting process.

Refresh floors and décor. Worn floors or dated interior home features can make your home feel dreary. Not all flooring is expensive, and sustainable options are available. Aesthetics are important, but you should consider other factors when selecting new floors such as durability and moisture. If you’re happy with your current flooring and need to liven up your rooms, upgrade fixtures, lighting, or add greenery to make your home more inviting.

Energize your home’s exterior. A well-maintained yard is the first step in boosting curb appeal. A newly-painted home or new door with a bold color can also make your home more attractive. Other features to replace  can be your garage door or mailbox. New lighting features such as walkway or entryway light fixtures can make your home friendly and inviting. 

Take steps towards sustainability. There are many ways to reduce the energy consumption in your home. Replacing heating, cooling or water heaters with more energy-efficient units is one step. If your appliances are new or energy-efficient, make sure not to forget about regular maintenance so your units can run at an optimal level. Installing drapes and shades on windows are easy and low-cost ways to regulate the temperatures in your home. Another option for making your home more sustainable is to conserve water. Be mindful of taking shorter showers, turning off the water when brushing teeth, and only use the dishwater when it is full. If you already recycle, consider reducing the amount of garbage you generate by buying and using products wisely.

Clean, clear and declutter. Cleaning and clearing your home may seem like a daunting task. You don’t have to put off organizing your home until the spring. An easy way to tackle a whole home decluttering project is to organize room by room and sort items by type: toss, keep, reuse/repair, recycle and donate. 

For more information about home repairs or renovations contact the CWHBA.