Invest in your future by investing in your home

Image credit: Soroush Karimi from Unsplash

It’s said that the biggest financial investment that people usually make is in their homes. But you could also argue that your home is an investment for your future. Regardless of where you are in life, you should always have some kind of plan for the future. Whether you’re buying your first home or finding somewhere to settle down for retirement, here are some ways that you can future-proof your home.

1 - Keep Costs Down
Utility costs add up, but you may be spending more than you need to. If you’ve recently moved in, or you’ve noticed costs spiking more than usual in winter, then you get an insulation specialist in to check things out.

The first thing you should look at is your attic insulation. Typically, this should last at least fifteen years or so, but there’s no harm in getting it checked every three years. After all, not every house reaches the average. 

Another potential heat leech is through the doors and windows. Again, quality doors and windows should last at least fifteen years, but that’s if they’re brand new. If your home is a bit older or built in an exposed area, then you may need to consider a replacement. Besides, new doors and windows are a good way to freshen up your house.

2 - Rendering Repairs
Your exterior walls keep your home and family safe from the outside world, but they can take a battering in the process. Any damaged rendering looks unpleasant, but it can also lead to damp and cause major issues in the future. 

Some companies, like TCA Rendering, can repair and protect your home rendering, preventing these problems before they crop up. Also, if you’re still concerned about keeping your utility costs low, you can get external wall insulation. 

As with any contractor, be sure to use a company that you can trust and that has a good reputation. This saves you time, money, and stress further down the road. 
​
3 - No More Narrow Corridors
This is something that few people consider, but if you have the space, consider widening the corridors and hallways. This way, you won’t feel cramped in your own home. Wider corridors have a more practical consideration, especially when you consider the future.

Babies and children take up a surprising amount of space, considering their size. Prams, buggies, and other seemingly endless paraphernalia can jam up narrow corridors. Also, larger families can suffer from traffic jams unless they’re able to squeeze past each other.

Also, larger corridors are easier for older or disabled people to navigate. They provide a clean and comfortable space to maneuver, especially for wheelchair users. If this applies to you or your family, you may also benefit from widening the interior doorways to make your home more accessible. 

​Or, cut out as many corridors and doorways as you can by implementing an open-plan design. A well-designed open-plan home can be functional and attractive, providing a versatile and bright place for the whole family.