A living space is a necessity for adults in the United States. Though there is no shame in living with your parents for a while, or even for a long time with some cultures, many individuals want to get out on their own and find a living space just for themselves or their families.
In Philadelphia, there are plenty of options for the type of living space you can rent or buy. When you move into a new place, it becomes your responsibility to take care of it. Even if you live in an apartment complex where maintenance issues are handled by the landlord or property management company, you are still partially responsible for the condition of the space.
Learning how to take care of your Philadelphia home is an important skill. Not only will it ensure the space is kept safe and comfortable, but it can also prevent you from having to spend money on unnecessary repairs. Here are some tips to help you take care of the living space.
It Starts With Choosing the Right Home
Understanding your limits is the key to choosing the right living situation. You do not want to take on more than you can handle. For example, a young and single professional may not have the capacity to take care of an entire home, so an apartment would be better. Perhaps you can find a middle ground between the two via a condo in Society Hill. Choosing the right type of home is the first step in taking care of it since you want to be sure that you can handle the needs of the space, no matter what they are.
Knowing Who is Responsible for Repairs/Maintenance
Properties of all kinds require upkeep to continue functioning safely. Leaving things as they are allows wear and tear to play a role in the various systems of your living space, damaging them over time. When you move into a new living situation, it is important to know who is responsible for making repairs and performing maintenance. In an apartment or similar rental unit, it is usually the property owner or management company. Yet it is still important to understand what you are responsible for reporting or fixing yourself. If you buy a home, then the responsibility is entirely on you. Whatever type of property you live in, obtain clarity on the responsibility for maintenance.
Keep Up With Cleaning
Living in a home can make it messy. Hygiene, eating, using the bathroom, and spending time in the living spaces can result in messes. That does not even take into account the buildup of dirt, grime, and dust that occur in interior spaces. Keeping your living space clean should be a priority to take care of the home, making it safer and more comfortable for yourself, your family, and your guests. Knowing some basic cleaning tips can be very helpful in keeping your Philadelphia home spotless. For example, baking soda can be a powerful cleaning agent for removing stains. A toothbrush can help you get into the little cracks and crevices that often collect debris. If you hate the idea of cleaning yourself, you could always hire a professional service to help. Either way, a clean home is safer and provides a better experience for all residents.
Consult the Inspection Report
If you bought a home in Philadelphia, then you probably paid for an inspection. This report can be a very helpful tool that helps you take care of the home. It generally reveals any current maintenance problems that need to be taken care of quickly. It also will discuss potential problems that may arise soon that the inspector spotted. If these issues are left unaddressed, they could become more expensive in the coming years. Keep the inspection report handy and check it every once in a while to see what your home may need in terms of care and maintenance.
Make Improvements if Allowed
Taking care of a home is not just about handling repairs or maintenance issues. It also involves improving the property, especially if you own it. The right improvement projects update the functionality of the living space and increase the resale value of the home, which will be a benefit when you sell it in the future. Some common home improvements that you can invest in include bathroom remodels, kitchen renovations, a new deck, updated flooring, and energy-efficient window replacements.
A Home is a Huge Responsibility
Whether you are renting an apartment, living in a condo, or buying your first home, a living space is a big commitment and responsibility. At some level, it is up to you to take care of the space so that it is safe for yourself and does not depreciate in value. Living in Philadelphia can be a wonderful experience, but only if you know how to take care of your home so that it remains a comfortable space for you and your family.