For many Americans today they may be staying in their homes longer then they thought. As a result, maintenance can become an issue. In a cash crunch it is easy to try to save and the opposite happens. Here are some suggestions to ward off problems. The old cliché  ”Pay me now, or Pay me later applies”

 If you have a Home Warranty, renew it. This is protection more for the big things that could happen. Read over it and understand there is a deductible. You must call the Warranty Company before calling a repair person as they have contracts with professionals that must do the work. Similar to any insurance, this can give you peace of mind from an unforeseen major expense.

Get your home inspected and under bond from a termite company, or maintain your bond if you have one. Check your papers to see what the bond covers. Is it a treatment only bond, or are repairs included. Moisture issues are becoming more of a concern with mold issues and lawsuits. Better to be prepared then sued if you convey the house.

Have a Columbia SC Real Estate Home Inspection yearly. This can identify energy and safety issues as well as structural and other problems in the house that should be addressed. Taking care of these problems before you sell will be to your advantage. They can check for leaks in the plumbing and Hot Water Heater

Get your carpets cleaned yearly. It is healthier and will keep up their value if you do.

Have your AC serviced yearly. Leaks and inefficiency can cost you more. Make sure you check your vents regularly. Clogged vents make the system work harder and will cost you more then a change of a filter.

Paint, and maintain the yard. When you are ready to sell you will be happy you did.