10 New Year’s Resolutions for Homeowners

It’s that time of year again when we set our intentions for the year ahead. Whether 2025 will be your first or your 20th year as a homeowner, it’s always helpful to have a plan in place for any changes you might want to make around the house. That’s why we’ve created a list of ten suggestions you should consider adding to your list of New Year’s resolutions.

Reduce your carbon footprint.
There are many ways to reduce energy use at home, from small changes like upgrading to a Nest thermostat, to larger changes such as adding solar panels. This year, take the time to review how much energy your household is consuming—making improvements could save you money in the long run.

Round up your mortgage payments.
This one can be tough, but if you have the means and want to make a dent in your mortgage, now is the time to start creating a realistic budget for the coming year. Even rounding up your monthly payments by a few extra dollars can make a big difference over time.

Fix your pet peeves.
Whether it’s a leaky faucet in the kitchen or cracked tile in your powder room, there are always little things around the house that bug you. This is the year to take action and make those small changes that will help you feel at peace in your home.

Safety first.
Security systems aren’t the most exciting home purchase, so they can be easy to put off. However, there’s a wide range of home security systems to choose from, at various price points. Take the time this year to do some research and find what’s right for you and your property. You can even start small with something like a Ring doorbell camera.

Do a serious declutter.
Don’t wait until spring cleaning to get rid of unnecessary items around the house. This year, take a full survey of what you do and don’t use, and donate unwanted items on a regular basis.

Determine your home’s value.
If you’re thinking about putting your home on the market, a great first step is to get your home appraised to find out how much it’s worth. Online tools, such as the Zillow Zestimate, are often inaccurate when estimating your home’s value. Instead, work directly with a Senné associate who can guide you through the process and provide a detailed analysis.

Create a chore chart.
When’s the last time you cleaned your baseboards? You don’t need to wait until spring for a deep clean. It’s easy to forget the small details when doing regular cleaning. Schedule time this year to deep-clean those often-overlooked spots in your home.

Add a fresh coat of paint.
Are your white walls starting to look a little dingy? It happens to the best of us. If you can’t remember the last time your house was painted, it might be time to refresh some of your rooms. This is also a great opportunity to try out a new color palette or experiment with one of the “colors of the year.”

Shop around.
Don’t pay more than you need to for home insurance, utilities, or cable. Take some time this year to browse other plans and ensure you’re getting the best deal on the services you need at your property. For example, some home improvements could even qualify you for discounts on insurance, and internet companies are constantly running sales on services.

Boost your curb appeal.
After spending more time in our private outdoor spaces, this could be the perfect time to tackle those landscaping projects you’ve been putting off. If it’s snowing, a good snowblower can help ensure the path leading up to your house stays neat and clear. In the spring and summer, consider starting a garden or giving your shrubs a trim, so you can enjoy the view from your lawn chair.

No matter how big or small your goals are for this new year, you can always turn to Senné’s real estate professionals. Our team of experts is here to help make your dreams a reality. Give us a call at 617.314.9400 or email us at [email protected] to get started today!