Homeownership Made Affordable with 4 Practical Tips
We all want to save money in our pockets in any way we can, right? And as a homeowner, the thought of monthly expenses and costly repairs can be daunting.
It’s a good thing there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, as there’s always a way to stay afloat despite the upkeep costs. Here are our recommendations on keeping your ijara home in top shape while saving some money in the process.
Consider Upgrading Old Appliances
Moving into a slightly older fully furnished home has its conveniences, as it’s already equipped with the appliances a family needs like a refrigerator or an oven. However, older equipment requires higher energy or gas to function properly, which would reflect on your utility bill.
Technology constantly advances, and modern appliances tend to have energy-efficient features that optimize their functionality without consuming too much gas or power. Swapping old appliances with newer ones can cost more initially, but the savings on your utilities will make up for it in the long run. Plus, it will take longer for any major repairs to happen, translating to more money saved.
Options, Options, Options
Many homeowners usually move into their new ijara home either bringing their old services or signing up for the first one they find. And while this could work for some, there are some savings to be had when you shop around for your options.
Several service providers offer deals for new customers or those moving their services to a new location. Make sure to ask around first and compare prices so you’ll get the best value for your money.
Regular Maintenance Saves Good Money
Here’s where the saying “prevention is better than cure” can help homeowners. Taking care of minor problems in the home as soon as they appear, like a leaky faucet or a clogged pipe, can become a big problem if left unchecked. Doing quick repairs now can save you money (and a potential headache).
Additionally, having a regular maintenance checklist can be a wallet-saver, especially when the weather changes. Checking the pipes, insulation, and your garden before major season changes can prevent costly repairs or high utility bills once the chills come in.
Check our articles on fall maintenance and winter maintenance checklists for a quick guide to follow.
Automatic Savings for Rainy Days
We’ve all heard the idiom “save for a rainy day,” right? Well, it does hold in homeownership as well.
It’s highly recommended to set up automatic savings for those unforeseen circumstances like the air conditioning suddenly failing in the middle of summer. An automatic deduction of $50 per month may not seem much, but it will certainly help when the need arises.
Owning a home can cost a pretty penny, but with these recommendations, we can lower the cost of homeownership. All it takes is some planning, checking your options, and a bit of elbow grease.
Want to know another way of making the most of homeownership? Turning your home riba-free! Ask an ijaraCDC specialist today if you qualify for any Sharia-compliant investor-backed programs.
