Congratulations on becoming a homeowner! Embarking on this journey marks a significant milestone in your life. As you step into your new abode, it’s essential to lay down the groundwork for a smooth transition and a happy home. To help you navigate this exciting time, we’ve curated a comprehensive checklist of essential first steps for settling into your new home.
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Change the Locks
Your home’s security should be a top priority. Change all exterior door locks and consider installing a smart lock system for added convenience and peace of mind.
Update Address and Utilities
Notify relevant parties, including the post office, banks, subscription services, and utility companies, of your new address. Set up new accounts or transfer existing ones for essential utilities like electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable. Make sure to receive the key to your community mailbox to access your mail if needed.
Inspect and Clean
Before moving in your belongings, conduct a thorough inspection of your new home. Look for any damages or issues that need immediate attention. Plan a deep cleaning session to ensure a fresh start in your new space.
Familiarize Yourself with Safety Features
Locate fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and emergency exits. Test each device to ensure they are in proper working condition. If your home lacks these safety features, consider installing them as soon as possible.
Organize Important Documents
Keep all essential documents, including mortgage papers, insurance policies, warranties, and home improvement receipts, in a safe and easily accessible place. This ensures that they don’t get lost during your move-in and that they are always there when you need them.
Set Up Home Maintenance Schedule
Create a schedule for routine home maintenance tasks such as HVAC servicing, gutter cleaning, and lawn care. Staying on top of maintenance will help prevent costly repairs down the line.
Get to Know Your Neighborhood
Take some time to explore your new neighbourhood. Locate nearby amenities such as grocery stores, schools, hospitals, and recreational facilities. Introduce yourself to your neighbours and start building connections within the community.
Make It Your Own
Personalize your space by unpacking and arranging your belongings to reflect your style and preferences. Consider adding a fresh coat of paint, hanging artwork, or incorporating decorative elements to make your house feel like home.
Plan for Emergency Preparedness
Develop an emergency plan for your household, including evacuation routes and designated meeting points. Stock up on emergency supplies such as non-perishable food, water, first aid kits, and flashlights.
Celebrate Your New Home
Finally, take a moment to celebrate this significant milestone in your life. Host a housewarming party to share the joy with friends and family, or simply enjoy a quiet evening in your new home, savouring the sense of accomplishment and the beginning of a new chapter.
Are you looking to own a home this spring? Give us a call today! Our real estate agents are more than happy to help you move into your new home!
Home renovation is rarely straightforward and always carries the risk of additional costs—and that’s particularly true for those who need accessible home modifications. Whether you need to build an entry ramp or adapt a bathroom, it helps to be aware of funding options that can help homeowners.
About 27% of the U.S. adult population has a disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And 12% of people with disabilities face a mobility issue that may impact walking, climbing stairs, or getting around the house. The good news: There’s help for millions of people to pay for renovations that make their homes more accessible, whether they have physical disabilities that impact mobility, are deaf or hard of hearing, are blind or have diminished vision, are neurodivergent, or have other disabilities that may require a home modification.
Funding resources can come from federal, state, and local government grants. Other options include private loans and nonprofit funding. This guide can make it easy to find the right funding source to help offset (and potentially cover) the cost of home modifications for accessibility.
Home modification costs at a glance
Starting a home repair project can seem daunting. “Home modifications for accessibility can range from simple changes like installing grab bars in bathrooms to more extensive renovations like widening doorways or installing ramps,” says Ladina Schöpf, founder of a Zurich-based architecture planning firm. “The costs can vary, depending on the scope of the modifications and the specific needs of the individual,” Schöpf says.
From minor modifications (some of which you may be able to handle yourself) to major structural changes, the cost of home remodeling for individuals with motor disabilities can range from less than $100 to more than $60,000.
Here are a few examples of common home modifications for people with disabilities and the average price, according to a disability remodeling cost guide from Fixr, an online resource center focused on home improvement and repair projects.
Install a chairlift: $3,000–$5,000
Build a wheelchair ramp: $1,700–$5,000
Widen a doorway: $300–$2,500
Add grab bars: $85–$300
Install a specialized doorbell (for people with hearing impairments): $50–$500
Add auditory smoke detectors (for people with vision impairments): $70–$150
One of the top sources for grants for home modifications for people with disabilities is the U.S. government, which has several programs to help homeowners cover the cost of their accessible home modifications.
U.S. Department of Agriculture
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides loans and grants for low-income rural residents through its Rural Development program. The maximum loan amount is $40,000, and the maximum grant allowance is $10,000. Loans and grants from this USDA program may be combined for up to $50,000 in assistance for home repairs.
To qualify for the program, applicants must own their home and live in the house. Additionally, homeowners must prove they can’t obtain affordable credit elsewhere if they apply for the Rural Development program, also known as the Section 504 Home Repair program.
Further, this program only applies to single-family homes in select areas. Applicants should first check if their home is in an eligible area on the USDA website. For grants, applicants must be age 62 or older.
U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
There are also grants available from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. As you might’ve guessed, applications for these grants are limited to veterans and service members with certain service-connected disabilities. Beyond those qualifiers, the grants vary depending on whether the applicant owns (or plans to own) the home being modified. Veterans who don’t own their home but need help modifying it for their disability can still apply for specific grants.
Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant. It’s the most significant grant available, as successful applicants can receive up to $117,014 in 2024. This type of grant requires that applicants own or plan to own the home being modified.
Special Home Adaptation (SHA) grant. This grant is designed for veterans with qualifying service-connected disabilities who live in their own home or one owned by a family member. The grant provides up to $23,444 (as of 2024) and doesn’t need to be used within a single calendar year. This flexibility is nice in case future modifications are required.
Temporary Residence Adaptation (TRA) grant. This type of grant caters to veterans and service members in temporary housing arrangements. Veterans need to qualify for either the SAH or SHA grant to apply for the TRA, which differs in that it doesn’t require the grant applicant to own the home and instead covers changes needed when the veteran is temporarily living with a family member. The amount of this grant depends on whether the applicant would qualify for an SAH or an SHA grant: if SAH, then the grant provides up to $47,130 in 2024; if SHA, then the grant provides up to $8,415.
Home Improvements/Structural Alterations grant. This grant provides up to $6,800 to pay for modifications for service-related disabilities and up to $2,000 for other disabilities.
State and local home modification grants
The federal government isn’t the sole funding source for costs associated with home modifications for individuals with disabilities. There are also state and local programs that provide financial assistance when modifying a home for accessibility.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website has a state-by-state breakdown of homeowner assistance programs. Loan amounts and qualifying criteria will vary by state, so it’s best to research your home state to determine how much money is available for homeowners making repairs or modifications for accessibility.
The Independent Living Research Utilization program was started in the late 1970s and, in the decades since, has provided a comprehensive list of resources for people with disabilities who strive to live independently. Like the HUD resource list, this is organized by state and includes local funding options.
The National Directory of Home Modification and Repair Resources has an interactive map with many resources that homeowners can explore while researching funding options.
Nonprofit resources for home modifications
Homeowners can apply for funding from nonprofits as they modify their homes and make them more accessible.
Habitat for Humanity
This nonprofit is well known for building homes for low-income families. The Habitat approach relies on both volunteer workers and the homeowners themselves taking an active role in building for their future through a process known as “sweat equity.” Even though a prospective homeowner’s disability may limit their ability to participate in construction work, Habitat for Humanity has ways for all future homeowners to take an active role through means like homeowner education courses or volunteering at Habitat’s storefronts.
The National Disability Institute
The National Disability Institute is another nonprofit group, and its Assistive Technology Loan Program provides loans up to $45,000 to help pay for hearing and vision aids, communication devices, environmental adaptations, wheelchairs, and home or vehicle modifications for New York and New Jersey residents.
Other financing options for home modifications
Many homebuyers may face headwinds from high interest rates and limited supply, and the added cost of home remodeling for disability modifications compounds the pressures that disabled homebuyers face.
Brady Bridges is a real estate broker/owner in the Fort Worth, Texas area, and he encourages homebuyers to think outside the box if they need additional funding options for home modifications. “In the current housing market climate, the Fannie Mae HomeReady loan program is a viable financing option for home modification for individuals with disabilities,” Bridges says. “Disabled homebuyers who earn less than area median income and with a credit score of 620 or higher can benefit from a low down-payment requirement, as low as 3%,” Bridges says, “with the option to use grants or assistance funds for the entire down payment.”
Every extra bit of financial wiggle room helps in purchasing a new home, and it’s especially useful when budgeting for accessible home remodeling projects that may be required after the home purchase.
Putting it all together
Once you research the price ranges of common accessibility modifications and clarify how much your projects will cost, you can effectively and realistically start to budget for these updates. But you’re not necessarily on your own when it comes to paying for these modifications. There are many funding options for accessible home modifications out there that can lessen the financial burden of making a home comfortable for a differently abled person.
Make a plan to start your project on the right foot and proceed confidently. To kick-start your savings, consider a Discover® savings account, which offers a competitive savings rate with no account fees.
Articles may contain information from third parties. The inclusion of such information does not imply an affiliation with the bank or bank sponsorship, endorsement, or verification regarding the third party or information.
In today’s volatile housing market, ensuring your home is protected against unexpected repairs and replacements is more crucial than ever. As homeowners seek peace of mind amidst the unpredictability of homeownership, home warranty companies have stepped up to offer a buffer against unforeseen expenses.
5 Best Home Warranty Companies
With so many options available, pinpointing the most reliable and value-packed home warranty company can be daunting. To help you choose, we’ve curated a list of the best home warranty companies to ensure your home’s systems and appliances receive the top-tier coverage they deserve. Take the time to discover which provider aligns best with your needs.
#1 Choice Home Warranty
There are plenty of reasons to go with Choice Home Warranty. First, they are a top-rated business according to ConsumerAffairs.com and have an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
They have a five-star rating from Trust Pilot, and Inc. 5000 has recognized them as one of America’s fastest-growing private companies.
Choice has customer service available 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So if you’ve got a problem, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and call them.
They are more than happy to answer any questions about your home warranty plan or, if need be, put in a request for a repair. A licensed, pre-screened, and continuously monitored technician will come to your house, usually within one or two business days.
The age of your home, its systems, and appliances is not relevant to Choice Home Warranty. They always cover items that have been properly maintained and were in well-working order when coverage was initiated.
If the item in question needs to be replaced but is no longer available on the market, they will give you a cash payment of the item’s replacement cost.
Another plus is that you don’t even have to get your home inspected before Choice Home Warranty will begin offering you coverage.
Choice also has a very reasonable $85 dollar service call, which makes them among the most competitive warranty providers for service calls.
Plan Options
1. Total Plan ($450 a year)
Includes coverage on the following —
AC
Heating
Electrical
Plumbing
Water Heater
Whirlpool
Refrigerator
Oven
Dishwasher
Microwave
Garbage Disposal
Washer and Dryer
Ductwork
Garage Door Opener
Ceiling and Exhaust Fans
2. Basic Plan ($378 a year)
Includes coverage on everything mentioned above, EXCEPT:
AC
Refrigerator
Washer and Dryer
Items that can be added at additional cost include:
Pool
Central Vacuum
Well and Sump Pump
Limited Roof Leak
Stand Alone Freezer
Second Refrigerator
Septic System
Septic Pumping
Read our full review of Choice Home Warranty
#2 Advanced Home Warranty
Advanced Home Warranty offers comprehensive coverage and a 24/7 claims hotline, making it a strong choice for anyone considering a home warranty.
Home warranties are available nationwide, so you can qualify for a plan, no matter where you live in the U.S. Plus, you can try it out without any risk by signing up to get your first month completely free of charge.
Trade service fees are reasonable at $60. If the cost of the repair is less, you’ll pay the smaller amount. This is one of the lowest service fees available among the providers on our list.
While they don’t offer a wide range of plans, you can get coverage on some of the big-ticket items associated with homeownership.
A low monthly fee can be much more manageable than paying for replacements outright every time an appliance breaks. There are also parts of even larger systems that are included in their coverage.
Here’s a breakdown of the two home warranty plans available from Advanced Home Warranty, how much you’ll pay, and what exactly they include.
1. Basic Plan ($370 a year, plus one month free)
Includes coverage on the following:
Heating System
Electrical System
Plumbing System
Dishwasher
Microwave
Garage Door Opener
2. Total Plan ($450 a year, plus one month free)
Includes coverage on everything above, PLUS:
Air Conditioning
Refrigerator
Washer/Dryers
Do read each home warranty plan for details on exactly how each specific item on the list is covered.
Read our full review of Advanced Home Warranty
#3 Liberty Home Guard
Liberty Home Guard offers a high degree of personalization for your home warranty coverage. For example, you can pick the plan and also how often you want to be billed.
You can choose monthly payments, annual payments, or for the most savings, multi-year home warranty plans.
Liberty Home Guard offers a service call fee of $60, which is a competitive service fee. You can also expect your service call to be delivered within 48 hours of making a claim.
You don’t need a home inspection to qualify for coverage with Liberty Home Guard. There’s also no limit to how many claims you can file within a year.
You can file your claims online for your ease and convenience. And with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee on service, you’re sure to be satisfied with the repair or replacement process.
If for some reason, you want to cancel your plan early, it’s entirely possible because there’s no annual contract. You’ll receive a prorated refund for any time you’ve paid for, except for a small administrative fee.
With Liberty Home Guard, there are three different coverage options you can choose from. You can also include optional add-ons in any plan.
1. Appliance Warranty for $39.99 Monthly or $399.99 Annually
Clothes washer
Clothes dryer
Refrigerator with ice maker dispenser
Built-in microwave oven
Dishwasher
Garbage disposal
Range/ oven/ cooktop
Ceiling and exhaust fans
Garage door opener
2. Systems Guard for $49.99 Monthly or $499.99 Annually
Air conditioning
Heating
Ductwork
Plumbing
Electrical
Water heaters
3. Total Home Guard for $59.99 Monthly or $599.99 Annually
This choice offers the most protection of all the plans and includes everything listed in the two plans above.
4. Optional Add-ons
Pool and spa: $17.00 monthly; $195.00 annually
Sump and pump: $3.00 monthly; $36.00 annually
Central vacuum: $3.00 monthly; $36.00 annually
Well pump: $9.00 monthly; $101.00 annually
Additional spa: $16.00 monthly; $188.00 annually
Septic system and septic sewage ejector pump: $11.00 monthly; $123.00 annually
Stand alone freezer: $4.00 monthly; $44.00 annually
Second refrigerator: $4.00 monthly; $44.00 annually
Read our full review of Liberty Home Guard
#4 Complete Protection
Complete Protection is another excellent home warranty company. Servicing all but nine states, this A+ Accredited Business is open 24/7.
Only slightly more expensive, this once small-scale, family-owned business offers some of the most comprehensive home warranties available in North America.
One of the many benefits offered by Complete Protection is their no-fee service call policy. With most quality providers charging at least $50 per service call, having no service call fee at all is a major perk.
They have five plans you can choose from:
Kitchen/Laundry: $32 a month/ $384 a year — covers your dishwasher, oven, refrigerator, and washer and dryer.
Heating/Cooling: $34 a month/ $408 a year — covers your furnace, AC, and water heater.
Basic Built-ins: $40 a month/ $400 a year — Furnace, AC, water heater, dishwasher, and oven.
Full House: $50 a month/ $600 a year — Furnace, AC, water heater, dishwasher, oven, refrigerator, and washer and dryer.
Full House Plus: $60 a month/ $720 a year — Includes everything mentioned in the first four plans, but also includes electrical wiring and in-bound water pipes.
What makes Complete Protection stand out even more:
There are a few other things that make Complete Protection stand out from its competitors. For one, their home warranties don’t have a deductible. As a result, you don’t have to pay any approved repair costs when something happens — this includes the initial service call, parts, and labor.
Secondly, CP pays for all preventative maintenance. Other home warranty companies mandate that their customers undergo preventative maintenance on items such as HVAC systems, but they won’t even pay for it. Instead, they force their customers to do so!
Thirdly, CP home warranties cover all the parts within an appliance. Most home warranty companies exclude parts like ice makers or washing racks within dishwashers. CP does not pick and choose which parts it will cover.
Lastly, Complete Protection allows you to choose your own service contract provider. So, if you have a certified contractor with whom you work, you can go to them whenever home repairs are needed.
They do this because they feel that their customers should always be comfortable with the person working in their house.
Read our full review of Complete Protection
#5: American Home Shield
The accolades American Home Shield has received are many. In addition to being a Better Business Bureau Accredited Business, they also received the Women’s Choice Award from 2014 to 2016.
On top of that, Home Warranty Reviews gave American Home Shield the Best in Service award in 2014 and ranked them as Top Rated from 2015-2017. Last but not least, they are Consumer Affairs Accredited.
Why so much recognition from the industry? For starters, they’re always open. You can always reach them regardless of what day or time it is. And, when you do, expect a local contractor to be at your home within no more than 24 hours. You don’t even have to get on the phone. You can request home repairs directly from their website.
Another reason American Home Shield is recognized as the best among the best is its versatility with its home warranty plans. They have four to choose from:
Systems Plan: Covers the replacement or repair of your home’s key systems, such as: plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning, and smoke detectors.
Appliances Plan: Includes coverage on common, everyday household appliances, such as refrigerators, built-in food processors, dishwashers, and washer and dryers.
Combo Plan: Get coverage on all of your primary home systems and appliances. Saves you $14 a month if you were to rather purchase the systems and appliances plans separately.
Build your own plan: Choose only what you want to be covered by selecting 10 or more items from their list of covered items. This way you get the coverage that you care about the most.
Another element of their customized service is their service fees. American Home Shield allows customers to choose from a service fees range of $75, $100 or $125 per service request. This allows you to get the plan you want without having to account for a high service call fee.
The ability to choose your own service call fee regardless of the plan you’re on separates American Home Shield from most other home warranty companies which carry a standard service call fee.
Additionally, American Home Shield can provide coverage for your pool, spa, well pump, and septic system (at additional costs) and can assist you during the moving process by covering your home while it’s listed. If the new owner decides they would like to upgrade service afterward, it’s an easy switch to do so at closing.
Read our full review of American Home Shield
Methodology: How We Chose The Best Home Warranty Companies
When researching the best home warranty companies, we analyzed over 20 of the most popular home warranty companies. Our team spent hours reviewing each home warranty company. We examined many factors, but mainly focused on the following:
Home warranty plans and options
Pricing
Reputation and trustworthiness
Customer reviews
Pros of Home Warranties
Peace of Mind
One of the major benefits of a good home warranty is peace of mind. A home warranty can bring some real financial security against unexpected home repairs. While getting your home in ideal shape can be tough, maintaining that level can be even more stressful. A good warranty coverage can cut away a big chunk of that worry.
Convenience
One of the biggest problems people can encounter when faced with unexpected breakdown at home is finding good help. But a home warranty also reduces some of that stress, as your provider can provide you with a relevant licensed expert within their network.
Potential Savings
In many cases, standard home repairs – such as a new boiler, for example – can be a lot cheaper if replaced under warranty. While home warranties can’t guarantee savings, chances are you will see the benefits speak for themselves over time.
Transferable
Many home warranties are transferable, meaning you could carry your plan to a new home if you decide to move. Be sure to check whether transferability is a feature of any warranty before signing if that’s important to you.
Cons of Home Warranties
Wait Times
Unfortunately, wait times for claims can sometimes keep you waiting. If you need a quick fix or emergency repairs at home, you may have to wait longer than you would like. One thing that can help here is looking for a provider that provides an online claims process. This is because online claims are often processed faster than those done over the phone.
Coverage Exclusions
Home warranties don’t cover everything, and it can be hard in an emergency to remember your exact coverage limits. It’s important to read the details carefully before signing up, and put a plan in place if you need work that falls outside your warranty coverage.
Cost
Home warranty coverage isn’t cheap, especially if you want to secure protection across your property. You won’t necessarily be covered by service fees, even if you choose a plan with a high service fee. And of course, some maintenance and repairs can come with further costs on top of your plan. These high costs can make it difficult to discern whether a home warranty is the right thing for you.
Other Home Warranty Companies to Consider
Here are a few other home warranty companies that didn’t make our top 5 that you may still want to look into.
Like so many things in our lives, a home warranty is something that we don’t often think about until we absolutely need it. Sure, you have home insurance, maybe even flood insurance, but that only covers certain situations.
Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners or renters insurance can cover damage to your home from things like fire, theft, storms, and some natural disasters. In addition to your homeowners insurance plan, you should choose to purchase a home warranty to protect your belongings in a way that insurance lacks.
If you’ve ever purchased a large appliance, a computer, or even a television from a retailer, then you’re probably familiar with the concept of a warranty.
However, those are warranties sold at the time of purchase and cover only one product. The benefit of home warranty protection is that it can cover every product in your home and more.
Choosing a Home Warranty Plan
What a home warranty plan covers will depend on the plan you choose, and there are many to choose from. A home warranty can cover anything from your microwave oven to your plumbing and your electrical systems.
Deciding which plan is right for you will determine what items and systems it covers and how much it will cost. Typically, home warranties charge either a small monthly or annual fee that can save you a lot of money in the long run.
How to Choose the Right Home Warranty
Choosing the right home warranty is key. Let’s run through all the details you need to consider before making your decision.
Determine Your Coverage Needs
At the very least, it’s important to get at least an idea of what sort of coverage you need. Take the time to decide which items in your home you want to protect before comparing offers. You’ll find plans that cover appliances, home systems, and plans that cover both.
Compare Quotes
It’s worthwhile to shop around. Try to acquire at least three different quotes from plans that you’re genuinely interested in. And use this time to also prioritize clearing up any questions you have about the policies you’ve been offered.
Don’t forget to pay close attention to the various prices you’ll see for service call fees. Some companies are much more competitive than others, and some even offer a service fees range which you can choose from depending on your needs and budget.
Review Sample Contracts & Liabilities
The next step is to review any sample contracts carefully. You’ll want to identify the limitations and exclusions in the contract, especially.
Furthermore, be sure to double-check cancellation policy just in case you decide your warranty isn’t working for you later on.
Check Reviews
Finding the best home warranty company for you will require some further research. You can read customer reviews online to find a company that provides great customer service as well as competitive plans.
Be sure to look out for any record of previous legal action taken against the company, too.
Home Warranty FAQ
What is a home warranty?
A home warranty is a type of service contract purchased to cover breakdowns, repairs, and replacements of home appliances and systems. Home warranties are designed to cover normal wear-and-tear damage on covered items and systems.
When a covered item breaks down or otherwise requires attention, you file a claim with your warranty provider. They then send a licensed technician to your home to assess the issue. Instead of paying for the full cost of the repair, being under warranty generally means paying only a small service fee for necessary repairs. The price of service fees varies between providers.
Home warranties are popular because they offer homeowners maintenance coverage and emergency repairs without having to rely on savings. The home warranty market today is huge and can provide terms for homes and budgets of many shapes and sizes.
What does a home warranty cover?
Home warranties can cover a whole range of systems and appliances within your home. You can decide how much you want to spend and determine what items will be covered by your home warranty.
Most home warranty companies break down their offerings into good, better, and best options. The good option, and least expensive, is one that covers most if not all of your appliances.
Major Home Systems
More expensive on an upfront basis are plans that cover major home systems. These home warranty plans cover the systems within your home. If you’re renting, this may not be of concern to you. However, if you own your home, you know that a plumber or electrician can cost a lot more than replacing your refrigerator.
If you’re less concerned with appliances and worried about what keeps your home humming along, then you may want to consider a system plan.
Appliances
Appliances like your microwave, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and often a lot more are covered by the best home warranty companies. These are great options for those who are renting or want to spend the least amount of money.
Systems & Appliances
The most expensive plans, of course, offer the most coverage. The best plans cover both systems and appliances. So while they’re the most expensive, they’re also the best value. Covering your systems and appliances together will typically save you around 20% to 30% of your total bill.
Basic plans from the best home warranty companies will cover the majority of systems and appliances in your home but don’t cover everything. If you have a pool, for instance, you may have to choose additional coverage.
Some home warranty companies even allow you to add coverage to cover your homeowners’ insurance deductible. Combining appliance and system coverage may also include these additions.
There are exclusions to what a home warranty will cover. Unfortunately, no plan is a blank check to have every item in your home replaced. These are repair plans and not replacement plans.
What is not covered by a home warranty?
The extent of your warranty coverage will vary greatly between companies and plans available. Having said that, however, here is a list of the ideas that are usually not covered by a home warranty:
Structural issues, paint and flooring
Commercial-grade equipment or systems
Pre-existing conditions
Rust, corrosion and sediment problems
Improper maintenance, installation, design, or manufacturer defect
Detection and removal of asbestos and mold
Building and zoning code violations
How much does a home warranty cost?
Home warranty pricing varies greatly depending on the coverage you choose, the home warranty company, and the area in which you live. In general, though, if you’re just covering appliances, expect to pay around $30 a month.
If you’re looking for only system coverage, you’ll probably pay around $35 a month. However, if you combine your coverage to include both systems and appliances, expect to pay around $45 per month.
Adding things not covered by a typical home warranty plan can also increase your monthly bill. If you have an atypical appliance or system, it’s possible that basic plans do not cover it. Not everyone has a swimming pool, a septic tank, a whirlpool tub, or a spa.
Check with your individual plan to ensure that all systems and appliances you want to have covered are actually included. If they aren’t, see if you can add them separately.
Service Fees
In addition to your monthly fee, you’ll also need to pay service fees for a service call. This cost can vary greatly.
The best home warranty companies offer plans that will cost you around $50 to $125 per repair. This is based on the home warranty company, the plan, and the item that needs to be fixed. While this may seem like a lot, consider the cost of the average repair without a warranty.
What can you expect to pay without a home warranty?
The average repair cost of a refrigerator is $275 to $325. The igniter on an oven or range may only cost $110 to $200 to repair, but a control board could cost you more than $260.
Replacing a rubber gasket on your washer will set you back between $200 to $300. These expenses can quickly add up compared to the fee home warranty companies charge for a visit.
Bottom line: They’ll address the issues with your current item but won’t give you a new one.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Pre-existing conditions are not covered either. Unfortunately, if one of your major appliances breaks, you can’t just sign up for coverage and expect to have it fixed.
Most home warranty companies will cover an unknown pre-existing condition. However, you can’t have an appliance covered if you or the home warranty provider knows that it’s already broken. This is why it’s a good idea to think about purchasing home warranty coverage before your appliances break.
Coverage Waiting Period
Most companies impose a 15 to 30 day waiting period before coverage can begin. There are, however, exceptions to this rule. For instance, if you have a home warranty that is ending soon, you may be able to begin on the date your coverage stops.
It’s important to read the fine print of your service contract. Each home warranty company will have very specific coverage details.
While all will most likely cover your refrigerator, not all of them will cover wear and tear on the gasket that seals it. Typically, the more expensive the plan, the more it covers, but this is not always the case.
What is the process for having an item repaired?
When something breaks, especially if you have a home warranty, you’ll want it fixed as quickly as possible.
Going without a microwave for a week or two may be acceptable, but if it’s your refrigerator, you may not be so patient. When an item malfunctions or breaks, you’ll need to contact your home warranty company’s customer service and explain the issue.
Make sure you report the problem as quickly as possible. The faster you make the call, the faster you’ll get an appointment and have your issue resolved.
Independent Contractors
The home warranty provider will most likely assign an independent contractor to inspect and repair the item. Obviously, system repairs can take longer and be more labor-intensive.
For example, replacing a part on your furnace will be a lot easier than repairing electrical wiring or plumbing inside your walls.
Depending on what is wrong, the contractor may have to order parts or return with specialized equipment. You’ll be required to pay a service fee for each item you wish to have repaired. However, the contractor should ensure that the item returns to working order.
Workmanship Guarantee
Once you’ve had an appliance or system repaired, that item is covered under a workmanship guarantee. Think of it as a warranty within your warranty.
The home warranty provider guarantees the parts and labor of that particular repair for a specified amount of time. This is usually around 90 to 180 days after the repair. So, even if you cancel your plan, they will still cover the repair during that time.
Who should pay for a home warranty?
Many times the seller will buy a home warranty to make the purchase of the home more appealing. Sometimes a real estate agent will even purchase a home warranty as a courtesy to the clients they’re representing. However, buyers, sellers, real estate agents, and current homeowners can all buy a home warranty. It’s also important to note that buying a home warranty can be done at any time, before or after closing.
What should you look for in a home warranty company?
A home warranty can save you a lot of hassle and headaches, not to mention money, down the road—as long as you do your homework and think it through.
A home warranty covers many things that homeowners insurance does not. Having peace of mind knowing that costly home repairs won’t spring up unexpectedly is a great feeling.
Choosing the right type of coverage for you is the next step. When you think about the type of coverage you want, think about the items you want to protect in your home.
Renters
If you’re just renting, then plumbing and electrical work is not a concern for you. Your homeowners insurance should cover things like theft and fire, but you still want to be covered when something breaks that you actually own. Choosing an appliance plan is probably the right option for you.
If you live in an older home that you own, a more comprehensive plan may be the right choice for you. It’s comforting to have your home inspected before purchasing, but things can still go wrong. You can avoid costly maintenance as long as you plan ahead.
Are home warranties worth it?
The answer to this question will depend largely on your unique circumstances. Two of the biggest factors are the age of your home and the quality of your appliances. In addition, your own ability and comfort with repair and maintenance is a factor.
Almost every home appliance and system will eventually require significant repair or even replacement. Depending on your own DIY skills, you might be comfortable taking responsibility for most repairs. Others might want more comprehensive coverage. But even still, there could be plenty of reasons why you would prefer to have a home warranty.
How do I cancel my home warranty?
Your first step should be to review your contract and make sure you understand the cancellation policy. Most companies will charge a cancellation fee that can range from 5% to 10% of the outstanding fee.
Thereafter, you can contact the company and tell them you’re considering cancelling your warranty. If possible, try to speak to a sales rep with whom you’re familiar.
Some companies require you to send a written notice of termination. Remember to cancel any automated payments from your credit card or bank account, if necessary. It might also be a good idea to request a written confirmation of the cancellation for your records.
Which home warranty company has the lowest service call fee?
Service call fees can vary widely between companies, but it’s important to try to find the most competitive service call fee available to you. Service fees generally range from $50 to $150 per service call.
The trick with finding a competitive service fee call is making sure you don’t sacrifice the quality of service calls. Some of the top-rated home warranty companies charge a higher service fee. However, it could be worth it to have the security and confidence of quality home service.
Final Thoughts
To find the best home warranty company, you will need to read the contract thoroughly. Every company that you investigate will have a contract. In that contract, they’ll spell out exactly what they do and do not cover.
They’ll also explain the cost, who will fix your items if they break, and more. Comparing two or more home warranty companies can give you a sense that you’ve made the right decision. Always make sure you do your homework.
Furthermore, check to see if a home inspection is required before qualifying for a home warranty with a specific company. Many don’t require this extra step, but it’s wise to be prepared in case they do. You definitely want to consider both cost and convenience as part of your ultimate decision.
Full Reviews of Home Warranty Companies
Looking for more options? Check out our other home warranty reviews below.
Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This may influence which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations.
After a long year, tax season is finally upon us. You’re probably getting all your ducks in a row—collecting all the information you need, choosing your tax software, and so on. If you’re a homeowner, you might be able to catch a few tax breaks—but can you get a tax break for buying a house?
If you itemize your deductions via Schedule A rather than claiming the standard deduction, you could be eligible for one or more home-related tax breaks. And if you work from home, you might be able to claim a home office deduction (more on that later). The information below is general information regarding these deductions. It is always best to consult a tax professional if you have any questions related to your specific situation.
Deductions vs. Credits
Many people mistake deductions for credits—but they’re not the same thing. Let’s take a closer look at both types of tax breaks.
Deduction
Deductions reduce your taxable income according to the highest federal income tax bracket you fall into. So, if you qualify for a $2,000 deduction, the amount of money you can be taxed on will be reduced by $2,000.
There are two types of deductions: standard and itemized. Standard deductions are specific amounts based on your filing status and are updated annually. Itemized deductions are specific amounts you paid during the taxable year and you should use itemized deductions when your total of allowable itemized deductions is higher than the standard deduction.
Credit
Credits lower your income tax liability by a fixed dollar amount. If you qualify for a $500 tax credit, you pay $500 less in taxes.
Good to know: Some tax credits are nonrefundable, so if you don’t owe a lot of tax to begin with, you don’t qualify for the entire credit. Other tax credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit, are refundable, so you get the entire amount under any tax circumstances. The remaining amount of credit available that wasn’t needed to pay down your tax bill comes to you in your tax refund.
Nondeductible Home Expenses
Unfortunately, some homeownership expenses just aren’t deductible. These include:
Closing costs (title insurance, appraisals, etc.)
Depreciation
Domestic service
Down payment
Fire insurance
Mortgage insurance premiums
Mortgage principal
Utilities such as gas, electricity, and water
Common Homeownership Deductions
If you itemize your deductions, there are several homeownership deductions available.
Home Mortgage Interest Deduction
Arguably the most well-known tax break for homeowners, the home mortgage interest deduction (HMID) lets you deduct interest paid on your mortgage up to $750,000 (or $375,000 if married filing separately).
If you take out a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC) to make home improvements or buy or build a primary or secondary residence, you can deduct the interest through 2025.
You can claim this deduction on Form 1040, Schedule A.
Property Tax Deduction
Do you pay property taxes monthly or yearly? In either case, both state and federal property taxes are tax deductible on your federal return. For tax year 2023, the deduction amount is capped at $10,000 for married couples filing jointly and $5,000 for other tax statuses.
You can also claim taxes paid at closing when you buy or sell your home and certain payments made to town or county tax assessors. However, you can’t claim taxes paid on commercial or rental property.
To claim this deduction, report your total state and local income taxes in box 5a on Schedule A of Form 1040.
Mortgage Points Deductions
A homebuyer can purchase mortgage points, also called discount points, at the time of closing to lower their interest rate. For example, buying one point may lower your interest rate by 0.25%.
You can either deduct these points in the year in which you opened the mortgage or over the mortgage term. There are limitations, which you can view on the IRS website.
You can file for this deduction using Form 1040, Schedule A.
Home Office Deduction
If you’re self-employed and work from home, you can claim a home office deduction. To do so, you have to prove that you’ve used a portion of your home exclusively for business purposes. In other words, your office or another “separately identifiable space” counts, but your bedroom doesn’t—even if you work on your laptop in bed. Voluntary, occasional, or incidental freelance work won’t entitle you to a home office deduction.
There are occasions where you don’t need to meet the exclusive-use test. These include:
If you use part of your home as a day care facility for children, disabled adults, or elderly individuals
If you use part of your home to store physical inventory or product samples
Deductible expenses include:
Refurbishment and repair costs
Depreciation
A portion of your rent or mortgage payment
A portion of your utility bill
Business insurance
Office supplies
You can’t deduct landscaping or lawn care costs unless you’re a gardener or you’re in the lawn care business.
You can also consider using the simplified method for claiming your home office. That allows you to deduct $5 per square foot of your home used for business purposes. Often, this is a much more convenient way to deduct your home office versus taking the time to itemize each of your expenses.
Important: Before 2017, traditional employees could claim unreimbursed employee business expenses that exceeded 2% of their adjusted gross income on their tax return, including home office expenses. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act eliminated that option until at least 2026. So, if you have an employer, you can’t currently write off any unreimbursed expenses related to your home office.
To claim this deduction, you’ll need to complete Form 8829, Expenses for Business Use of Your Home as part of your tax return.
Rental Expenses Deduction
If you rent your home, you can deduct some landlord expenses on your taxes, including operating expenses, depreciation, and repairs.
You can only deduct costs associated with keeping the rental in good operating condition. For example, you could deduct the cost of repairing a full bathroom that flooded, but you couldn’t deduct the cost of renovating a half bath into a full bath.
To claim this deduction, complete Form 4562, Depreciation and Amortization (Including Information on Listed Property).
Medical Capital Expense Deduction
If you have a medical condition that requires you to make improvements to your home or install special equipment, you may be eligible to deduct some or all of their cost.
Common capital expense deductions include:
Constructing ramps to exterior doors to make entering and exiting the home easier
Widening doorways or hallways to allow for wheelchairs or other mobility equipment
Installing railings, support bars, and other bathroom safety modifications
Lowering or modifying cabinets to make them usable
Installing a lift or otherwise modifying stairways
Modifying warning systems, such as fire alarms and smoke detectors
To file this deduction, use Worksheet A Capital Expense Worksheet to determine your medical capital expenses and enter the total on your Schedule A (Form 1040).
Common Homeownership Credits
As a homeowner, you may also qualify for specific homeownership tax credits.
Mortgage Interest Credit
Some lower-income first-time homeowners may receive a Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) from their state or local government, subsidizing the purchase of their home up to $2,000 on mortgage interest.
This credit comes with a few stipulations. For example, you’ll have to deduct the total amount of the credit from the mortgage interest you deduct. See the instructions page of Form 8396 for a complete list of stipulations. You’ll need to submit this as part of your tax return to claim the credit.
Residential Clean Energy Credit
Formally the Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit, the Residential Clean Energy Credit has a credit rate of 30% through 2032 and can cover costs related to renovating or building a home that runs on clean energy.
Specific limitations vary based on the type of improvements made, but they can apply to:
Solar electricity
Solar water heating
Small wind energy
Geothermal heat pumps
Biomass fuel
Fuel cells
See the IRS website for more details.
To claim the credit, complete Form 5695, Residential Energy Credits Part I as part of your tax return.
Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit
If you improve your home’s energy efficiency, you may qualify for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit.
Qualifying improvements include:
Building envelope components
Home energy audits
Residential energy property (i.e., central air conditioners that meet the Consortium for Energy Efficient (CEE) highest efficiency tier)
Heat pumps and biomass stoves and boilers
Each improvement has specific limits and guidelines. Learn more at the IRS website.
To claim the credit, complete Form 5695, Residential Energy Credits Part II as part of your tax return.
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit
Owners of electric vehicles may opt to add a charging station to their home. If you did so in 2023, you may qualify for the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit when you file your taxes. However, currently, this credit applies only to homes in low-income or urban areas.
To claim the credit, complete Form 8911.
A Word About Capital Gains
Many people worry about the amount of capital gains tax they’ll pay on a home sale. If you plan to sell your primary home and believe you’ll make a profit, you can exclude up to $250,000 of the gain from your income, or $500,000 if you file a joint return with your spouse. But there’s a catch: You have to have lived at the home for a minimum period of two years before the sale.
How Much Does Buying a House Help With Taxes?
Do you get a tax break for buying a house? It depends! Based on your tax situation, you could take advantage of various tax breaks available to homeowners.
Most homeowner credits and deductions only apply if you itemize your return—and you’ll only know whether itemization is worth it after you complete your tax forms. If you’re looking for a simple solution for filing your taxes, use TaxAct. As you enter information into your return, TaxAct will recommend whether itemizing your deductions or claiming the standard deduction is better for you.
You don’t have to wait for tax season to save money! Get your free credit report card from Credit.com. See where you need to work to start improving your credit to prepare for home ownership.
Disclosure: All TaxAct offers, products and services are subject to applicable terms and conditions. Price paid is determined at the time of filing and is subject to change.
The TaxAct® name and logo are registered trademarks of TaxAct, Inc. and are used here with TaxAct’s permission.
Combined into a series of federal, state and local laws, your specific renter’s rights get dictated by where you live. They’re in place to prevent things like housing discrimination and rent gouging. These basic rights ensure you have a safe, clean place to live as well as detailed courses of action when things are going wrong.
Landlord-tenant law helps you live peacefully in your rental. Do you know your tenant’s rights?
Fair housing
Before even taking a tour of a potential apartment, it’s your right to have fair access to housing. This means your rental application will not get rejected based on:
Race
Color
Religion
Age
Sex
National origin
Family status
Mental or physical disabilities
Your renter’s rights in this case receive protection at the federal level by the Fair Housing Act. State and local laws may reinforce the Fair Housing Act and even add more categories to this list to ensure everyone has equal access to apply for housing.
Not only can your rental application not get refused based on these factors, but, if you have a disability, landlord-tenant law requires they make reasonable accommodations for you to access the apartment. This could mean installing ramps or making a unit on a lower floor available.
Legal documentation
Another piece to your renter’s rights is the lease. It’s the responsibility of the property manager to give you a legal rental contract to sign that abides by all laws.
In addition to specifics about the property, and breakdowns for processes like requesting repairs, using common areas and more, a lease must clearly indicate the leasing period and your monthly rent. It should also have your name, and any roommates, on the document.
The lease should also include a series of general disclosures. The law requires these, although it varies by state which specific ones must get listed. A few common disclosures you may see in your lease if they’re applicable to the rental unit, include:
Notice of mold
Lead-based paint disclosure
Notice of sex offenders, recent deaths and any potential health or safety hazards
Living space
A variety of rules govern your living space when you’re a renter. This ensures you have somewhere to live that’s actually livable. Tenants’ rights, when it comes to your actual apartment get pretty involved, so make sure you know the highlights.
Habitable housing
It’s not enough for a property manager to provide you with an apartment; the apartment must be safe for you to live in it. This means more than a lack of dangerous conditions. Your renter’s rights entitle you to a home with usable utilities, including heat, electricity and water.
This area of your renter’s rights also means you have a home that’s safe and livable in other ways. Specifics within these guidelines require an apartment to have functioning locks on doors and windows, smoke detectors and a dedicated way to escape in case of fire.
Repairs
This area of landlord-tenant law requires action on both sides. To ensure you have a habitable home, it’s up to you to report any maintenance issues using the process that’s outlined in your lease. Find out the best way to report issues like this to your landlord (such as through email or an online portal).
On the management side, their responsibility is to complete repairs in a timely manner. Your lease will define what this means, but different repairs rank higher in priority. For example, failure to repair a heater in winter can quickly lead to an uninhabitable living space for safety reasons, whereas a garbage broken disposal doesn’t create that serious of an impact.
If your property manager fails to make repairs in a timely manner, you have additional rights. Check with state and local laws about what’s within your rights.
Privacy
Although you’re only renting a home, and someone else owns it, your rights as a tenant mean a certain level of privacy. Once your rental agreement is in place, a property manager cannot come into your home without proper notice.
Notice is also required for more than just repairs. If you’re getting ready to move, and the property manager wants to start showing your unit to prospective tenants, for example, they must give you notice each time.
Security deposit refund
Each state usually handles security deposits differently as far as how much you’re required to put down. It’s normal for you to pay a security deposit though since that protects the property manager from having to pay out-of-pocket for any damages you may cause while living in your rental.
As far a payment goes, some states set caps on how much a property manager can ask for. They also can’t impose a higher deposit for your rental, when compared to other units in the building, without a specific reason, like having a pet.
It’s also within your renter’s rights to get the security deposit back, in a timely manner, if it’s not covering any damages. Most state laws set the time frame at 30 days, and you’ll not only receive your security deposit back but any interest that accrued as well.
If any of your deposit is withheld, you can ask for written documentation of the damages it’s paying for, and the property manager must comply.
Eviction
The situations where your property manager has the right to evict needs clear stating within your lease. Make sure to review them before you sign it.
Standard landlord-tenant law states that you can get evicted if you break your lease in specific ways, such as:
Failing to pay rent
Allowing prohibited animals to live with you
Having roommates that aren’t on your lease
Committing a crime on the premises
As a renter, your tenant rights enable you to address evictable issues within a specified time frame before an eviction can take place. You will receive notice of a pending eviction from your property manager. If you fail to fix the issue, they can then file an eviction with the courts resulting in legal removal from your rental.
State-specific renter’s rights
Although you’ll find many standard regulations associated with renting if you move between states, expect additional laws everywhere you go. Since renter’s rights get regulated on both the state and local level, if you’re relocating to a different part of the country — familiarize yourself with local tenant laws.
Some unique landlord-tenant laws include:
In Hawaii, security deposits with no deductions must get returned within 14 days
A property manager must give 48 hours notice before entering your apartment in Delaware
West Virginia has no minimum notice required for a rent increase on month-to-month rentals
In North Carolina, two month’s rent is the required minimum for a security deposit on a one-year lease
A lease can get terminated once rent is only five days late in Arkansas
As you can see, some states have pretty extreme rules. Being aware of them can help you maintain a positive relationship with your property manager while also protecting your own rights as a renter.
Know your renter’s rights
No matter how great, or rocky, your relationship is with a property manager, you should always follow the law as it pertains to your situation. This not only protects you, but it ensures your property manager gets held accountable when anything isn’t up to par.
Familiarize yourself with state and local landlord-tenant laws, read your lease thoroughly before signing and do your research when faced with a potential issue. Protect yourself by knowing your tenant’s rights.
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. Readers are encouraged to seek professional legal or financial advice as they may deem it necessary.
Lesly Gregory has over 15 years of marketing experience, ranging from community management to blogging to creating marketing collateral for a variety of industries. A graduate of Boston University, Lesly holds a B.S. in Journalism. She currently lives in Atlanta with her husband, two young children, three cats and assorted fish.
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In the digital age, the concept of home is being reimagined by the advent of smart technology, transforming everyday living spaces into hubs of convenience, comfort and entertainment. Never has this been so clear as when you take even a cursory tour of the HGTV Smart Home 2023. If you need further evidence of just how expansive this industry is becoming, a study by Grand View Research, Inc. determined that the home automation industry will reach a staggering $444.98 billion by 2030.
Smart home technology, once fodder for dystopian storylines on TV, has evolved into a widely accepted seamless integration of devices and systems that streamline tasks, enhance security and personalize our environment. From the moment you wake to the soft glow of a sunrise simulation to the reassuring click of a smart lock securing your home at night, these intelligent systems work collaboratively to simplify routines, conserve resources and provide peace of mind. Smart home devices not only respond to our immediate commands but also anticipate our needs, learn our preferences and adapt to our lifestyles, offering a bespoke living experience that was once the stuff of science fiction.
Image Source: HGTV
Noteworthy tech in the HGTV Smart Home 2023
Each year, HGTV builds a new, technologically advanced home in a different location within the United States. The contest is typically run as a sweepstakes, where viewers can enter for a chance to win the annual smart home. Entries are usually accepted online through the HGTV website or via mail. The main prize is, of course, the HGTV Smart Home itself, which includes the home, all of its furnishings and the latest home technology. In addition to the home, there are often other prizes, like cash awards or vehicles.
Coolest devices in the 2023 HGTV Smart Home
Laid out below are just a few of the most highly sought-after pieces of smart home tech in this year’s HGTV Smart Home 2023 and their less expensive counterparts.
GE Profile Kitchen hub
The GE Profile Kitchen Hub is a unique and high-tech kitchen appliance from General Electric. It’s designed to serve multiple functions and is geared towards making the kitchen experience more interactive and connected.
Interactive screen: The GE Profile Kitchen Hub features a large touchscreen display that can be used to access recipes, watch videos, control smart home devices and more.
Vent hood: The screen is built into a vent hood, allowing it to sit above your range or cooktop. This design not only provides essential ventilation but also offers a central view for following recipes or watching videos as you cook.
Cameras: The device includes front-facing and downward-facing cameras. The front-facing camera can be used for video calls, while the downward-facing camera is intended to capture your cooking, which can be useful for sharing your culinary adventures on social media or with family.
Integrated apps: The Kitchen Hub comes with a suite of applications designed for the kitchen. These can include recipe apps, music and video streaming services and other smart home integrations.
Connectivity: Being a smart device, the Kitchen Hub connects to your home’s Wi-Fi network. This allows it to pull up recipes, stream content and interact with other smart devices in your home.
U+ Connect: This is GE Appliances’ smart platform that allows various devices to connect and communicate. For example, if you have a GE oven, the Kitchen Hub can interact with it, setting temperatures, timers and more.
Not looking to shell out nearly $1,200 for this type of tech? Consider an Alexa. While not as advanced as the Kitchen Hub, it is still a solid virtual assistant option for the kitchen.
DAKboard Wall Display v2 Plus
DAKboard is a digital wall calendar that integrates with various online calendar services to display your events, tasks, weather and other custom information. The DAKboard Wall Display v2 Plus is one of their products, designed to be a versatile, visually appealing display for personal and professional environments.
Screen: The Wall Display v2 Plus includes a high-resolution screen designed to make texts and images clear and easy to read from a distance.
Customization: DAKboard is known for its highly customizable displays. Users can choose different layouts, fonts and color themes to match their preferences or interior design.
Connectivity: The device connects to Wi-Fi to sync with various online services like Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, Microsoft Outlook and others.
Photo display: Besides showing calendar and weather information, DAKboard devices can cycle through personal photos or artwork, making them a dynamic alternative to traditional picture frames.
Integration: DAKboard devices support integration with various third-party services for weather, to-do lists, news and more.
While the Dakboard Wall Display v2 Plus will run you close to $500, the Skylight Calendar is a solid replacement for around to $200 less.
Image Source: Samsung
Samsung AirDresser Grand
The Samsung AirDresser is an in-home garment refreshing system, which uses air and steam to clean and deodorize clothing. It is part of a new category of home appliances intended to reduce the frequency of traditional washing and dry cleaning.
Jet air and air hangers: The system blasts air to loosen and remove dust from inside and outside your clothes.
Steam cleaning: It uses steam to sanitize clothing, removing bacteria, viruses and allergens.
Deodorization filter: The filter captures and reduces odors, leaving clothes smelling fresh.
Gentle drying: Clothes are dried at a low temperature to reduce the risk of shrinkage and heat damage.
Smart control: Integration with Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem to monitor and control the device remotely through a smartphone app.
Self-cleaning: An internal system helps to maintain the device by removing scale and residue.
Wrinkle care: The AirDresser can smooth out wrinkles without the need for ironing.
Capacity and design: The AirDresser Grand offers a larger capacity to accommodate more items of clothing and potentially an updated design or premium finish.
Not nearly as fancy as the $1,100 AirDresser Grand, a handheld steamer, like the Conair Turbo EstremeSteam is a great option for quick sanitization and keeping clothes wrinkle-free with ease.
SimpliSafe Wireless Home Security System
SimpliSafe is a company that offers a variety of home security products and services, with an emphasis on ease of installation and use. Their systems are known for being wireless and user-friendly. These systems are typically marketed toward homeowners and renters looking for a quick, easy and effective DIY security solution.
DIY installation: SimpliSafe systems are designed for easy setup without the need for professional installation. The devices can be placed on shelves or adhered to walls without drilling.
Variety of packages: SimpliSafe provides different equipment packages to suit various home sizes and security needs. You can start with a basic set and expand with additional sensors and accessories as needed.
Components: A typical SimpliSafe kit includes a base station, which is the central hub of the system, wireless door and window sensors, motion detectors and a keypad. Additional components might include glass break sensors, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and panic buttons.
No contract monitoring: SimpliSafe offers optional professional monitoring services on a month-to-month basis, without the need for long-term contracts. This professional monitoring can dispatch emergency services in case of a break-in, fire or other incidents.
Smartphone control: SimpliSafe has an app that allows you to arm and disarm your system, receive alerts and monitor your home from anywhere.
Integration: SimpliSafe systems can integrate with smart home devices and platforms, like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for voice control and other smart home automation.
SimpliCam: They offer an indoor camera called SimpliCam, which can be used to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. It comes with features like motion alerts and the ability to stream live video.
Design: SimpliSafe sensors and devices have a discreet and modern design to blend in with home decor.
Battery and cellular backup: The system is equipped with battery backup to keep your home secure during a power outage, and the professional monitoring service includes cellular backup to maintain communication with the monitoring center if the Wi-Fi goes down.
Environmental protection: SimpliSafe also offers sensors that detect water leaks and freezing temperatures to help prevent environmental damage in your home.
Privacy protection: Features like camera shutters allow customers to control their privacy.
While the Simplisafe wireless home security system is great, it does come at a price, of about $320. If you’re looking to spend a little less, don’t fret, Amazon is full of more affordable DIY wireless security systems.
Moxie Showerhead and Wireless Speaker
The Moxie Showerhead and Wireless Speaker is a product by Kohler, known for combining the functionality of a showerhead with the entertainment feature of a wireless speaker.
Showerhead: It’s designed to provide a full-coverage spray, offering a quality shower experience with good water pressure.
Removable wireless speaker: The center of the showerhead houses a wireless speaker that can be easily detached and used independently. The speaker connects to devices via Bluetooth to play music, podcasts or other audio streams.
Water-resistant: The speaker is designed to be water-resistant, which is essential for any electronic device used in a shower.
Rechargeable battery: The speaker has a built-in rechargeable battery. When fully charged, it supports several hours of playtime.
Magnetic docking: The speaker is held in place with magnets, which makes it simple to detach and reattach to the showerhead.
Harman Kardon sound: Some versions of the Moxie speaker are engineered with sound by Harman Kardon, delivering a high-quality audio experience.
Voice assistant compatibility: Depending on the model, the speaker can sometimes be compatible with voice assistants, which would allow you to control music and other functions with voice commands.
Multiple colors and finishes: The Moxie showerhead may come in a variety of colors and finishes to match different bathroom decors.
Installation: It’s designed to be easy to install, fitting onto a standard shower arm.
For those who enjoy listening to music or podcasts in the shower, the Moxie Showerhead and Wireless Speaker system brings convenience and a bit of luxury to the everyday routine. If you’re looking for the same luxury at a more affordable price, you’re in luck. There are plenty of showerhead speaker combos at all price points on Amazon.
Image Source: Kohler
Anthem Digital Shower Control
The Anthem Digital Shower Control is another Kohler product that provides a high level of personalization and precision for the showering experience. It is designed to provide a user-friendly interface to control various aspects of the shower.
Digital interface: The Anthem Control includes a minimalist display with easy-to-read buttons.
Customizable settings: Users can save their preferred shower settings, making it easy to start the shower with their personalized preferences at the touch of a button.
Multiple outlet controls: The system can control multiple water outlets, allowing users to switch between them or use them simultaneously for a luxurious shower experience.
Smart home integration: Advanced models feature integration with smart home systems, enabling control via voice commands or through smartphone apps.
Easy installation: Even though it is a sophisticated system, companies like Kohler design these controls to be as easy to install as possible, sometimes compatible with existing plumbing.
Safety features: Many digital showers include safety features like automatic shut-off after a certain period or if the water gets too hot, which can prevent scalding.
Energy saving: Some models offer features that help conserve water and energy, aligning with eco-friendly practices.
If you’re after the type of precision temperature control that only a digital display like the Anthem Digital Shower Control can provide, consider the much more streamlined and affordable BLTFAUCER Digital Display. While it doesn’t provide as much customization as the Anthem model, it will allow you to achieve and monitor the exact shower temperature you want.
Elements Hexagon Starter Kit
The Elements Hexagon Starter Kit is a product by Nanoleaf, which is a company known for producing smart lighting solutions that are popular for their modular, geometric design and customizable lighting scenes. The Elements Hexagon Starter Kit is part of Nanoleaf’s Elements line, which focuses on combining smart lighting technology with decor.
Hexagonal panels: These are the core of the product, designed to be attached to form patterns on your wall. They’re hexagon-shaped to allow for a variety of configurations.
Wood look: Unlike the original Nanoleaf light panels, which have a very futuristic look, the Elements line has a more natural wood-like appearance, allowing them to blend into home decor more seamlessly when turned off.
Customizable lighting: Users can customize the illumination of each panel to create scenes or set the ambiance. This can include warm to cool white light settings, designed to mimic natural elements like a fireplace or thunderstorm.
Interactive control: The lights can be controlled via an app, where users can select or design scenes, schedule on/off times and adjust the brightness. They can also respond to touch or sound.
Smart home integration: The kit is compatible with most smart home systems, allowing for voice control.
Rhythm feature: With the rhythm feature, the panels can synchronize with music in real time, creating dynamic light shows in response to the audio they detect.
Simple installation: The panels attach to the wall with adhesive strips, which are included in the starter kit, making for a relatively easy setup without needing to drill holes.
Expandability: The starter kit includes a certain number of panels but can be expanded by purchasing additional expansion packs at any time.
The Elements Hexagon Starter Kit is a great system for incorporating upscale and entirely unique lighting into a space. That said, there are also a ton of customizable hexagon lighting solutions on Amazon for a range of prices.
Smart home. Seamless tech. Smiling faces.
The rise of smart home technology stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the quest for an enhanced quality of life. As we look to the future, the integration of these intelligent systems into our homes continues to evolve, bringing new levels of ease and enjoyment. These devices do more than just perform tasks — they create experiences, foster safe environments, and cultivate moments of joy and relaxation.
In a world where time is precious and personal happiness is paramount, the smart home is less about the gadgets and more about the freedom they afford us — the freedom to spend less time managing our homes and more time savoring the pleasures of life. As we embrace this era of connected living, we find that the true genius of smart home technology lies in its ability to fade into the background, creating a symphony of convenience.
Looking for your own place to add tech to? Whether you want to replicate the HGTV Smart Home 2023 or just add some DIY home automation, the future revolves around tech-forward homes. Check out our available apartments and houses for rent.
Before you buy a homeowners policy, your insurer might require a home insurance inspection. This inspection isn’t the same as the one you had when you bought your house. Instead, it’s a way for insurance companies to see the condition of your home, evaluate your coverage needs and decide whether they’re willing to insure you. Keeping your home in good shape can help this process go smoothly and ensure you get the coverage you need.
What is a home insurance inspection?
A home insurance inspection helps insurers understand the risks of covering your house. It allows your insurer to figure out how much it would cost to rebuild your house and to spot any issues, like fire hazards or weak structures, that might lead to insurance claims in the future. This information helps the insurance company decide if your home is in good enough shape to insure, and if so, how much your premium should cost.
Not all homes will undergo these inspections. Your insurer might require an inspection if:
You have a high-value or older home.
You live in an area at risk of tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires or other hazards.
What can you expect during a home insurance inspection?
You might not need to be present for an exterior inspection, but you will if the inspector is checking the interior of your home for things like wiring, plumbing and safety features. The inspection could take up to a few hours, depending on how detailed it is.
For an external inspection, the inspector may look at things like your roof, windows, doors and chimney. They may also check for hazards like overhanging trees or cracks in the walkways.
An interior inspection may involve examining walls, ceilings and floors for signs of water damage or pests. The inspector may also assess the state of your plumbing, electrical, and heating and cooling systems. They’ll often check safety features like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and security systems, too.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Your insurer may use your home insurance inspection to verify that you qualify for certain home insurance discounts. For example, many companies offer savings for having a home security system.
How to prepare for a home insurance inspection
Before your home insurance inspection, do your own thorough check to avoid being caught off guard by any problems. (You may want to hire a professional for some of these tasks.)
If you spot any potential issues, fix what you can or reach out to a contractor who can help. Here are a few key places to focus on.
Exterior of the house
Roof: Have a roofer check for damaged or missing shingles.
Gutters: Clear debris and ensure your gutters are secure.
Chimney: Look for cracks or loose bricks; consider a professional cleaning.
Trees: Trim branches away from the house.
Siding, doors and windows: Check for cracks, leaks and damage.
Walkways: Ensure there are no tripping hazards.
Yard: Remove loose debris and get rid of pools of water near your home that could lead to pests.
Interior of the house
Detectors: Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work.
Fire extinguisher: Check to make sure it’s operational.
Fireplace: Clean it out if you have one.
Windows, walls, doors and plumbing: Check for signs of leaks, cracks and pest issues.
Attic and basement: Look for signs of water or pest damage.
HVAC system: Have a professional clean and test your system.
What if you fail a home insurance inspection?
If your home doesn’t pass the insurance inspection, don’t worry — you have options. Make sure to act quickly. Being uninsured, even for a short time, is risky. A lapse in coverage can make it harder and more expensive to get a policy in the future. And if something happens while you’re not insured, you’ll be financially responsible.
Fix the issues
Your inspector may point out problems like a leaky roof or electrical issues. If your insurance company denies you coverage for fixable reasons like these, address them if you can.
Find a different insurer
If you were denied coverage because you live in an area at high risk for crime or severe weather, ask your neighbors who they use for home insurance. You can also ask the previous homeowners or reach out to a local independent insurance agent.
Not all companies have the same rules. Some insurers are pickier than others about the age of your roof, for instance. So if you can’t afford to get a new roof or make other major repairs, try another company. If one insurer says no, another might say yes.
Dispute the decision
If your insurer drops you due to a failed home insurance inspection and you don’t agree with the decision, you can dispute it. Be prepared to provide evidence to support your case, such as receipts for work you’ve had done on the house or a property assessment from an independent inspector.
You can also file a complaint with your state’s insurance department. It can conduct its own research into your claim and work with your insurance company to resolve the issue.
Look into state-run insurers
Many states have programs to help homeowners who struggle to get insurance. For example, Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) plans are designed for high-risk homes that private companies won’t insure. An independent insurance agent can help you find programs like this in your area.
Knowing the right questions to ask when touring an apartment puts you in that get-to-know-you space with each prospective home. It ensures the time you spent touring a potential rental isn’t a waste of energy and gives you a chance to see if the space, and the management company, are the right fit.
The first time you see a place is the best time to get all your questions answered. Not sure what to say? Here are the 21 best questions to ask when touring an apartment.
1. What are the lease terms?
Ideally, you should already know when the lease begins and ends before you even start asking questions while on an apartment tour. If for some reason you aren’t, make sure you get clarification on when move-in is and how many months the lease is for.
Inquire if there are any other common lease terms you should know like quiet hours or restrictions on painting or putting holes in the walls.
2. How much is the rent?
It is also essential to know if the apartment you’re looking at really fits into your budget. Ask how much the unit will cost per month and what the manager’s late rent policy is. Be sure to find out if there’s a grace period if you get delayed making a payment.
Also, ask about fees and how much money you’re expected to bring with you when you sign the lease. This should include a security deposit and possibly first and last month’s rent, but other costs could factor in.
If upfront fees are too costly, ask if there are any you can roll into your monthly rent and pay over time.
3. What’s required to move in?
Each property handles moves differently, so make sure to ask what moving in will look like for you financially while visiting apartments.
For instance, are there any moving or elevator fees? Do you have to get a special permit to have a moving van parked on the street? What area of the parking lot can you take over on the move-in day and does the management company block it off?
If you’re moving in on a popular day you may have to compete for space and wait to use the elevator. If that’s the case, see if you can delay your move by a day or come a day early to have an advantage.
4. Are utilities included in the cost?
Utilities aren’t always automatically included in the cost of the rent. Water is commonly factored in, but heating, gas and electricity are often paid for by the tenant. If you’re concerned about utilities, contact your local provider for an estimate.
5. How much do utilities cost, on average, if they’re not included?
Your property manager will most likely only be able to guess, but based on the size of the apartment, they should have some idea what you’ll end up paying, out-of-pocket if items aren’t included with rent.
To cover your bases, the average for basic utilities is around $172 per month. However, climate and energy costs vary between states — so always budget for a little more.
Do I need to get my own internet? Apartments rarely come with Wi-Fi waiting for you. Instead, you’ll have to find your own internet service provider to hook you up. Look for deals and make sure to price compare. Also, take into account the bandwidth you’ll need to ensure the right connection.
6. What’s your pet policy?
Whether you own a pet or think you might want to adopt one, you should absolutely ask about a building’s pet policy while touring an apartment. Make sure pets are even allowed before getting into the nitty-gritty details like pet fees, extra cleaning charges, etc. Pet policies vary widely, but most properties charge a non-refundable pet deposit or monthly pet rent.
Never try to hide a pet in an apartment where you know it’s not allowed. Getting caught can get costly, and lead to you having to get rid of your animal. Check to see if there are restrictions on breeds or types of pets allowed as well.
7. How about your guest policy?
When touring an apartment you might not think to ask questions about guests, but it’s an important thing to know. Most leases mention a guest policy but some are stricter than others. For instance, in some places, having a visitor for longer than two weeks isn’t technically allowed (which means your friend’s plan to spend the summer on your couch won’t work).
It can also impact your ability to have overnight guests for even a short time. So, make sure you know what’s allowed before you make any plans.
8. How do you handle subletting?
Say you were between jobs and wanted to go home for a month to see family. You don’t want to lose your apartment, so the best thing to do is sublet. But, is it allowed? Your lease should specify, but don’t hesitate to ask an apartment manager or landlord to clarify the situation.
Subletting without permission can lead to eviction. There’s also the fact that you’re still responsible for any damages to your apartment — even if they’re not made by you.
If you do end up subletting, make sure the person is reliable and will treat your space right.
9. Am I allowed to add a roommate?
While you may start your apartment hunt a little earlier than a close friend, you could already know that you’ll want to pull him or her into your place to live as roommates. This may mean you’d sign the initial lease on your own, so find out if it’s OK to make changes later.
Your property manager may require you and your roommate to come in and sign an updated lease together so both your names are on the document. It may also change how you pay rent.
Don’t forget to talk about expense sharing, in general, with your roommate before they move in and make sure they understand the apartment rules. You may even want to establish some of your own for when you’re living together.
10. Do you require renters insurance?
Renters insurance is another thing to think about while apartment hunting. Renters insurance provides coverage for your property in the event of things like a fire, flood or theft.
It may also cover injuries that happen within your apartment. This type of coverage tends to cost very little per month, so it’s a good idea to add it anyway.
While renters insurance is always a good idea, some apartments require it — so it’s important to ask while making visits. You don’t want to scramble to get insurance the day before you move in, otherwise, you might not get the keys.
11. How do I pay rent?
Saving up for rent each month isn’t the only thing you need to consider. At some point, you’ve got to get that money into the right hands.
Most management companies will offer you a few options when it comes to paying rent. These can include online payments or going through a service. This is the easiest way to make payments since you can often set up an auto-draft, but if you’re dealing with an individual property owner, ask about limitations. Even if you’re delivering or sending in a check each month, make sure you have clear information on where it goes, who it’s addressed to and by what day it should arrive.
12. Is there a penalty for breaking my lease?
It’s a good idea to become familiar with the process should have to break your lease. While that’s never the plan, knowing ahead of time what you’d have to do helps you prepare for anything.
Especially if you move around a lot for work or anticipate upcoming life changes, signing a year-long lease might be the wrong choice. Make sure you understand the penalties for early termination and ask if it’s possible to sign a month-to-month lease instead (just make sure you know how early you have to give notice when it’s time to go.)
13. How are repairs handled, especially in an emergency?
Even if everything appears in good working order when you’re looking around, questions to ask when touring an apartment should always cover maintenance.
Ask how emergency repairs get handled. Clarify if there’s maintenance available 24/7 or just within specific hours, and find out what the average response time is.
Now is even a good time to figure out what types of repairs your property manager would rather you handle (if any). Whatever the process, you want to know ahead of time to ensure a speedy conclusion to any emergency (or everyday) needs.
14. How do I file a complaint?
Again, even if you casually meet the people living near the vacant apartment you’re considering and they seem nice — it’s hard to tell what living with them will be like. Your lease should break down the process for filing a complaint, but you may want to go over it with your property manager just in case. Often, they’ll prefer something submitted in writing.
It’s also worthwhile to note that complaints aren’t always about noise. While that’s a big one, common complaints are also about pets, trash in the hallways and even strange smells coming from another unit.
15. How secure is the property?
As you’re walking around, ask the property manager to cover the building’s security features. You will want to know about both inside and external security measures (like a buzzer system or doorman). If there’s a parking structure, go over how you enter from there to make sure you feel safe.
It also doesn’t hurt to ask about the neighborhood and how safe the area is as a whole. Go online to check crime statistics if you’re concerned, but often just walking around the area yourself will give you a feel for its safety.
You don’t want to move somewhere that doesn’t feel comfortable to you whether you’re inside your apartment or not.
16. What’s your pest control policy?
A perk of living in an apartment building is that you don’t have to handle pest control. Since a pest invasion affects the entire property, it’s up to your property manager to keep pests away. This includes everything from ants to roaches, bedbugs to rodents. Ask if they have a regular pest control company come and spray, whether they’ll set traps if necessary and how to report a pest infestation within an actual apartment.
You don’t want to live somewhere that doesn’t take pest control seriously, however you can definitely get proactive and set some bait traps yourself if you notice a few ants here and there. Anything larger — call in the big guns.
17. How often does rent go up, and by how much?
Many apartments increase the rent upon renewal of the lease. These types of charges aren’t always spelled out in the rental agreement, so make sure you know going in how much you can expect to pay if you decide you want to live in the same apartment after your lease term is over.
If you’re looking for a long-term apartment, but the rent goes up by quite a bit each year, see if you can sign a long-term lease, say for two years instead of one and lock in a lower price.
18. What is the parking situation?
If you own a car, parking will sit high on your priority list. In many neighborhoods, especially in larger cities, street parking is hard to find and expensive to pay for separately so renting an apartment with a parking garage or lot will be necessary.
However, a personal parking spot or pass is often an added charge, so ask about any costs associated with owning a vehicle. You may not have a choice if you live somewhere that isn’t particularly walkable, but it helps to budget for the cost upfront rather than finding out about it later.
19. What other amenities are on site?
You’ve seen the apartment unit and parking if it’s available, now make sure to ask about the other amenities on site. Is there a pool? On-site laundry? An exercise room? A clubhouse? Ask about the hours of operation and whether any are available to reserve for special events. Find out how to do this and if there is an extra fee.
These extras usually only sweeten the deal once you’ve already found an apartment you love, but it’s nice to know upfront when and how you can use them.
20. Is smoking allowed indoors?
You may be of the mind that ‘to each their own’ when it comes to smoking, but sometimes a smoky apartment affects the neighboring units. Especially if you have an allergy, it might be best to live in a smoke-free building.
If it’s not something you mind, make sure to inquire about how often they check smoke detectors within each unit, and in public areas, and whether there are fire extinguishers on hand on each floor. About five percent of home structure fires start from smoking materials.
21. Are there plans to update the building?
This question covers a lot of things you’ll want to know. Construction or other work on the building is a sign of a lot of things — both positive and negative.
Construction in the building can mean you’ll be dealing with a lot of noise from every direction. However, renovated apartments are likely nicer than the unit you live in already, so you might get the chance to move once they’re completed. Improvements, though, can also be a sign rent is going up to repay the construction costs. Whatever it means, you’ll want to factor it all in before you sign the lease.
Know the best questions to ask when touring an apartment
There is an infinite number of questions to ask when touring an apartment, so make sure you prioritize.
Start with your deal-breakers since a ‘no’ to any of those means you’re moving on to the next apartment. You can even consider making a cheat sheet of questions for each apartment tour to keep track of answers, but also ensure you remember all the vital information once you’re back at home.
Regardless, don’t forget to speak up. This is, after all, your next home.
Home is where we spend most of our time, the safe space that welcomes us at the end of a long day, the special place where we raise our families, bond with our loved ones, or retreat to for some well-deserved solitude.
And much like everything else in life, our home needs to be properly taken care of. I’m not talking about property improvements, upgrades or anything fancy.
Today, we just want to go over some general home maintenance aspects that you’re likely well aware of, but we’re hoping that a little reminder will help bring them to the forefront.
There are many things you can do, from doing regular maintenance with proper cleaning products like the ones from HG to taking extra safety measures. When you take care of your home properly, it will be the most comfortable place in the world. Keep reading to learn more about how you can achieve that.
Perform regular maintenance
The first tip to make your home is always in top condition is to perform regular maintenance.
This usually includes inspecting some points in your house, such as pipelines, roofs, ceilings, and HVAC systems. When you find something wrong at one or some of those points, you have to quickly address the issue.
Of course, you can always rely on professionals who are specialized in fixing such problems if you don’t feel like you have the expertise to do it yourself.
Make a regular cleaning schedule
The next tip is to keep your house clean at all times by making a regular cleaning schedule.
You can set the cleaning schedule once a month, twice a month, or even once a week depending on how often your home gets cluttered. Usually, the more people living in the house, the more easily it gets cluttered and accumulates dust.
You can adjust your regular cleaning schedule based on how many people live in your house. Besides, you have to stock up on several kinds of cleaning products to make your regular cleaning activities much easier.
Take security measures
Another thing you must not miss when taking care of your home is to take security measures.
This is very important because the safety of your house as well as its inhabitants must be a key priority. And this doesn’t only mean safety from burglars who can break into your house. It also means keeping your home safe from hazards such as fire and potential short circuits.
A few easy ways to achieve this is to ensure your home has all the basic security features like security locks, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers. It’s also a good idea to install an alarm system and several CCTVs around your home (if your budget can accommodate that) to make it more secure.
Perform landscaping and outdoor maintenance regularly
To make your home more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, you have to perform landscaping and outdoor maintenance regularly.
This is very important because the exterior of your house can change drastically if you don’t tend to it regularly. One of the most important outdoor maintenance activities that you have to do is to mow your lawn due to how fast weeds grow.
You also have to trim bushes and trees if you have any in your yard. You also have to check the drainage to make sure it’s not blocked by dirt.
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Before you move your life into a new rental, you need to look over your new digs with a fine-tooth comb to make sure everything is on the up-and-up, clean and safe. Don’t put off an apartment inspection.
What is an apartment inspection?
Think about renting an apartment like buying a used car. Someone has had the item in their possession before you. Whether they used it properly and are passing it on in good condition isn’t always easy to tell. You’d take a used car for a test drive, ask about past accidents and repairs and eyeball every scratch, mark or dent. An apartment inspection that ensures you’re getting what you expect in your next home.
An apartment inspection should take place before you sign your lease. “This can help avert or minimize disputes with your landlord in the future about the condition of the property, as well as providing you with a safer, more pleasant place to live,” according to Justia.
Not only does completing an apartment inspection ensure everything gets fixed and to your liking, it also prevents your property manager from claiming any pre-existing issues are your fault or responsibility when it’s time to move out. Your property manager may even have time to address the specific issues you find before you move into the apartment.
So you know what you’re looking for, here’s a breakdown, by room, for your apartment inspection. Focus on each section of the apartment separately to give it as close a once-over as possible. Look at issues:
You can take our apartment inspection checklist with you too. Download it here.
Throughout the apartment
Each room will have its own items to inspect, but certain things should get examined throughout the apartment. It’s best to start with these since you’ll need to remember to check them out as you move from room-to-room.
1. Walls
Check for cracks, structural holes or evidence of water leaks, especially around windows and vents. If you find small holes from pictures and the like, note these so you property manager is aware they’re pre-existing.
While looking for issues, also check out the paint job. It should feel professional, with no drips or chips along the wall. Paint color should also consistently match throughout the apartment. Don’t forget to do the same inspection on the ceilings.
2. Electrical outlets
Make sure every plug in the apartment works. Plug something small (like a nightlight) into every outlet to check that it’s functioning. Make sure you don’t smell anything either. Look for burns around outlets and cracks in the covers.
3. Cable hookups
Check that all cable, internet and fiber optic outlets are in good condition, not blocked and in the areas of the apartment where you need them. If the apartment has a satellite dish, check that it’s secure and there are no leaks or holes around the connection to the unit.
4. Smoke detectors
Be sure smoke detectors exist in or near each bedroom, by the front door and by the kitchen. Test them to make sure they all work properly. Ask your property manager when the last time the batteries got replaced and the age of each smoke detector. Batteries should be changed every year, and the entire device should get replaced every 10 years.
Find out if fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide or radon detectors are also within the apartment, and make sure they’re in working order.
5. Lighting
Turn on all lights in all rooms to ensure everything works. Look for cracks or burn marks around light fixtures and recessed lighting. Ask your property manager to replace any burnt out bulbs before you move in, especially if the fixture is hard to reach without a ladder. That’s a job for maintenance, not you.
6. Thermostat
Check to make sure the temperature reading on the thermostat feels like the temperature in the room. Examine other rooms to see if the temperature is consistent throughout the apartment.
Turn up the heat, and check vents for heated air. Then do the same for the air conditioning. If the apartment has a radiator for heat or a window unit for A/C, check those, as well.
7. Blinds and shades
Inspect each set of blinds, shades or curtains for damage or holes. Open and close blinds and shades to ensure they are in working order.
8. Windows and doors
Run your hand along the frame of each window and door to feel for leaks or drafts. Inspect any insulation for cracks or brittleness. Determine if you can see light through any cracks in a closed door, indicating poor insulation.
Open and close the windows and doors to ensure they work properly. Make sure all windows and doors lock completely and feel secure when you pull on them. You should never have an apartment window that does not lock.
9. Flooring
Inspect all areas of the floor and carpet (including behind any furniture and in corners) for stains or holes. Get down and check for pet or other smells. Tug on some of the edges of the carpeting and floorboards to see if they come up too easily. Look around for improperly installed flooring nails that have popped up. You don’t want to step on those babies in your bare feet.
10. Overall cleanliness
As you’re conducting your simple and thorough visual inspection, take note of the overall cleanliness of the apartment. Look around for small brown pellets or insect eggs, evidence of roaches, other insects or rodents. You may find these in gaps in the walls, the bathtub and around plumbing and utility wires.
For furnished apartments, extend your cleanliness and damage checks to all furniture.
In the bathroom
Bathrooms are sneaky places when it comes to problems. With pipes hidden inside cabinets, you might not notice a leak. Tile cracks or issues with grout can be small when you move in, but quickly get worse. Out of all the rooms in an apartment, this one deserves a very close inspection. Don’t forget to check everything.
11. Toilet
Flush the toilet and make sure it works. The bowl should refill properly and quickly, and it should stop running in sufficient time. Lift up the lid on the back of the toilet to make sure nothing is damaged or broken. Sniff for bad odors, and look for cracks and nicks, especially where the toilet meets the floor. Check that the seat is sturdy, as well (how you choose to do that is up to you).
12. Sink
Turn on all faucets, and check water pressure. See how long it takes the hot water to heat up and the cold water to get cold. Be sure there are no drips or leaks both from the faucet and the plumbing underneath. Even small drips over time can balloon your water bill. Look for cracks both in the bowl and the pipes.
13. Shower
Turn on the water, and see if the temperature heats up in sufficient time. If you feel comfortable leaving it on, let the water run to determine how long before you lose hot water.
Check that the water pressure meets your personal needs, and there’s no excessive dripping after you turn it off. Make sure the water looks clear and clean and drains properly. Examine the tiles and grout for mold and chips.
14. Tub
If you have a bathtub, stand in it and jump (safely) around a bit. If you feel any give, it could be a sign of damaged flooring or mold underneath. Pull gently on the soap dish to make sure it’s secure, especially if you tend to put your foot up on it to balance for cleaning or shaving. Make sure water runs properly out of the tub faucet and the drain closes for when you want to take an actual bath.
15. Storage
Look under the sink to check that the storage area is clean and dry and nothing is blocking access. Check for signs of rodents or insects.
Medicine cabinets should open and close easily, and shelves should seem secure and clean. Test the sturdiness of the shelves of any built-ins, as well.
16. The rest of the bathroom
Examine the floor and tiles for damage or mold. Look carefully in corners. Assure yourself any hardware attached to the walls is secure. While you’re checking the toilet paper holder, also make sure you can reach it from the toilet.
In the bedroom
You may not realize it, but you’ll spend the most time in your apartment in your bedroom. Yes, you’ll usually be asleep, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it during your apartment inspection. In particular, don’t forget to check the spaces that seem most unlikely to have a problem, like the closet.
17. Windows
We already mentioned windows, but it’s doubly important in the bedroom. Run your hand along every edge of the window to check for space for leaks. In the bedroom, poor insulation can mean a very cold night. Check the locks on the windows to affirm you’ll get a safe night’s sleep.
18. Closet
Take a close look at the floor to ensure there’s no damage, and check all built-ins for sturdiness. If you have permanent hanging rods, tug on them slightly to make sure there’s no give.
Closets are dark and favorite hiding places for rodents and roaches. Use a flashlight if necessary but look around for rodent and insect droppings. Also, be sure the door, or doors, open and close easily.
19. Bed
In a furnished apartment, check every part of the bed for damage, cracks, loose bolts and evidence of bedbugs. Bedbugs aren’t very discreet, so if you see any dark staining on the mattress or bed frame, there’s a good chance there was an infestation at some point.
20. Ceiling fan
If you’re fortunate enough to have a ceiling fan in the bedroom, turn it on and off and try all the speeds. Does it rattle or wobble when it’s on high? If so, make sure it’s fixed before you’re nocturnally impaled.
21. Floors
Inspect the floor or carpet around where the bed would go, and make sure there aren’t carpet dents or floor damage from a previous bed. The bedroom is where pets like to sleep and do other things they shouldn’t do, so get your nose down to the floor and smell around for any pet odors.
In the kitchen
There are a lot of moving parts in the kitchen. For an apartment dweller, it’s where most of the functional appliances are located. In addition to making sure they all work, don’t forget to inspect the rest of the space.
22. Oven and stove
Turn on the stove to make sure it heats up as quickly as expected. Open and close the oven door a few times to ensure a good seal. On an electric stove, turn on every burner to make sure they all work and the heating elements all get hot. You can test this by dropping a splash of water from your hand onto each burner.
For gas burners, check that each burner lights without too much effort or releasing a lot of gas. Run the drop of water test, too. Make sure all burners go out and get cold when you switch them off, and you don’t keep smelling gas. Lift the hood and check the trays.
23. Sink
Turn on the water and check the pressure. Make sure the hot gets hot and the cold gets cold. Turn on the garbage disposal (with water on) for at least 15 seconds and listen to see if the sound is smooth and consistent. Try disposing something, like ice, if you wish. Check for odors afterward. Look around the base of the sink and underneath for water damage or cracks.
24. Refrigerator
Check all the stripping around the doors to make sure there’s a proper seal. Loose or dry sealing must get fixed. Open and close the doors. Feel inside the fridge and freezer to make sure they seem cold enough. See if all the lights turn on (sadly, you won’t be able to see if they turn off). Look for missing or cracked trays and shelves. Test the ice maker not only for proper operation but that the ice cubes smell and taste right.
25. Cabinets, counters and drawers
Open and close every door and drawer to see if they’re loose or squeak and if they’re flush on their hinges. Inspect every cabinet and drawer for animal droppings. Look around for cracks and signs of water damage.
26. Miscellaneous kitchen appliances
If luxury living is your style, you may have a few extra appliances. Don’t leave them out of your inspection.
For built-in microwaves, check that the door closes all the way and it operates correctly
Make sure the dishwasher doesn’t have any leaks or odd odors. Turn it on and wait for the water to run before turning it off.
Check that all recessed lighting works properly
Look in tough-to-reach places for floor damage, especially under and around the refrigerator
In the utility closet
Don’t forget about your utility closet. If it’s locked, insist your property manager open it up for you to inspect. Anything goes wrong in there, you’ll have major issues with your apartment, so look closely.
27. Heating and air-conditioning
Inspect your hot water heater and the HVAC unit. With the furnace or air on, put your hand over the vent to check the air pressure and temperature. See if there’s water pooling in the hot water heater tray. Inspect all hoses, and look around for water damage or leaks. Take out the HVAC filter, and note if it needs replacing. It will look gray if it’s dirty, white if it’s clean.
28. Fuse box
Open up the fuse box, and see if everything looks okay. Fuses should all be on with nothing tripped. Each fuse should also have a clear identification should you need to flip something while you’re living in the apartment.
You don’t have to trip every fuse, but see if there are any missing or damaged switches.
29. Laundry
If you have in-unit laundry, inspect the washer and dryer. Check that all the hoses and exhausts are attached and working. Look for blockages, and check that the lint trap in the dryer is in good condition. Start each appliance to see that they work. Watch for water stains and mold, and check for any odd smells.
In the building itself
Now that you’ve taken your time checking everything out on the inside of your apartment, give yourself the opportunity to inspect what’s on the outside. Even if it’s not technically part of your apartment, you want everything around it in good condition.
30. Exterior doors
Recheck all the locks on exterior doors whether they open into hallways or outside. Check for air leakage and if there is any, get it fixed, or expect a big electricity bill.
Be sure you can properly use the peephole, that it’s not painted over, and nothing is blocking it. This is an overlooked part of the security inspection, so don’t forget about it.
31. Exterior windows
Windows get a second check, too. Recheck the outdoor ones for air leakage. Triple check they all lock properly, especially if you’re on the first floor. Look for cracks or loose panes. Check all the windows for properly-installed screens, and assure there’s no damage or holes or you’re going to have a buggy summer.
32. Porches, decks and walkways
No matter what kind of exterior elements you have (if you’re fortunate enough to have one), check all wood and concrete for cracks and water damage. Feel around any gates, fences, posts or handrails for stability and safety. Look around for branches or tree limbs that are in danger of falling on your property (or on you).
33. The rest of the outside
Test that all exterior lights are in working order, whether outside on a post, attached to the building or in the hallway. If there’s a security system, make sure you know how it works and test it before you need it. Wherever your mailbox is located, make sure you can get into it, the key works and — if freestanding — it’s not in danger of falling off or over.
A proper apartment inspection makes a difference
While it may feel tedious, a careful apartment inspection is good for everyone. It ensures you’re getting the apartment you expect, headache-free from immediate issues. Not only that, it means your property manager is getting a tenant who takes the care and maintenance of their home seriously. It’s a win-win even if it doesn’t feel like it at the time.
This is why, before you sign a lease or move in, grab your apartment inspection checklist, and set aside a block of time to closely examine your new home.