As we’ve entered June, we’ve also entered a new season: winter. And landlords are always asking “How can I save on property maintenance costs?”. Well, for the next three months, we’ll experience colder temperatures, as South Africa has typical weather for the Southern Hemisphere, with the coldest days in June, July, and August. Unfortunately for property owners, the cold brings a few pain points that can be experienced, such as cracked foundations, rotting windows and door frames, burst water pipes, and clogged gutters – the list goes on!
The saying “prevention is better than cure” also applies to property maintenance. Regular maintenance of your property will result in fewer major damages and large expenses, which no one can afford these days. It’s better to avoid them as much as possible by investing some time and money in preventative measures.
It is advised to work your way from the outside to the inside of your house, performing minor maintenance tasks to prevent expensive repair bills later and save on property maintenance costs. At the same time, ensure that you and your family are warm and snug during the next few winter months.
Here are five hacks you can use to establish a proactive approach to property care and save on property maintenance costs this winter:
- Trim trees that are overhanging. They can sometimes drop branches and leaves on roofs, preventing the sun from naturally heating your home.
- Clean the gutters to ensure they are functioning properly after all the autumn leaves have piled up in them.
- Adjust your irrigation system to avoid wasting water when watering the garden.
- Inspect windows and doors for cracked, chipping, or peeling paint. Insulate any draughty openings to keep the cold at bay and decrease heating costs.
- Ensure that all outdoor lights are working. As the nights are longer and the days are shorter, the chances of leaving the house and returning when it is dark are quite high. So, ensure your security by making sure all lights are working.
Funding the maintenance costs
When it comes to funding minor maintenance costs, there are a few options to consider. One advisable approach is to have emergency savings specifically set aside for your property. These savings act as a dedicated fund to cover unexpected expenses that may arise from property maintenance or repairs. By consistently setting aside a portion of your income into this fund, you can gradually build up a financial cushion to address any unforeseen issues that may arise.
Having emergency savings for your property offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides a sense of financial security, knowing that you have funds readily available to handle maintenance costs without causing a strain on your overall budget. It also helps you avoid relying on credit cards or taking on high-interest debt to cover these expenses.
Alternatively, if you do not have sufficient emergency savings or if the maintenance costs exceed the amount you have saved, another option is to consider taking out a personal loan. Personal loans can provide a lump sum of money that can be used to cover the necessary repairs or maintenance tasks. These loans are typically unsecured, meaning you don’t need to provide collateral, and they offer flexible repayment terms based on your financial situation.
Before deciding to take out a personal loan, it’s essential to consider factors such as the interest rate, repayment terms, and your ability to comfortably manage the loan payments within your budget. It’s important to shop around and compare different loan options to ensure you’re getting the best terms and rates available.
Ultimately, whether you choose to rely on emergency savings or opt for a personal loan, the key is to be proactive in planning and preparing for the inevitable maintenance costs that come with owning a property. By having a financial strategy in place, you can effectively manage these expenses and ensure the long-term well-being of your property.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as we embrace the arrival of winter, it’s important to prioritize property maintenance to avoid costly repairs and ensure the comfort and safety of your home. By implementing these five proactive hacks, including trimming trees, cleaning gutters, adjusting irrigation systems, inspecting windows and doors, and checking outdoor lights, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage and save on property maintenance costs this winter.
While minor maintenance costs may arise, it is advisable to have emergency savings specifically allocated for your property or consider options such as personal loans to cover unexpected expenses. By taking a proactive approach and investing in preventive measures, you can save yourself from larger financial burdens down the line.
Remember, a well-maintained property not only protects your investment but also provides a cozy sanctuary during the winter months. So, take the necessary steps to safeguard your home and enjoy the season with peace of mind.
As part of our property management services, we’ve partnered with Home+ to ensure our landlords have access to trusted service providers to assist them with maintenance issues in and around the house. Are you ready to save on property maintenance costs this winter? Get in touch with our team!
