So, you’ve finally settled into your dream home. Everything is A-OK, and you couldn’t be more relieved. You’ve even started decorating and experimenting with interiors. Appliances are all in working order. And, of course, you’ve taken and shared incredible photos of your home for your feed. After all that effort and gastos, it’s finally over! 

Hold your happily-ever-afters — you’ve only just begun because, as we all know, the reality of home and living doesn’t come easy or cheap. Just wait a few months for a pipe or aircon to leak. It can be a hassle, and it can also be frustrating to use your hard-earned money when it could be spent on other fun stuff (like budols during #MondayMarket). 

But don’t fret just yet! Home maintenance doesn’t always have to be expensive or out-of-budget. As long as you know how to make wise decisions and take preventive measures, you can keep your home in its prime without breaking the bank.

How to Minimize Gastos While Maintaining Your Home

While it’s true that maintenance expenses are inevitable, a lot of major issues can easily be avoided if you’re cautious. Better get on top of your home’s needs as red flags pop up. This way, you can avoid spending extra money on furniture and appliance replacements. Here are some things you can practice to give your home the care it deserves.

Do Routine Inspections and Check-Ups

Ika nga ni doc, “Prevention is better than a cure.” We like to apply this motto in every aspect of our lives, including housekeeping and home maintenance. Doing a general check shouldn’t take a lot of effort — just a few times a month will do.

As a general tip, be extra mindful of the wear and tear of rooms with fixtures used more often. Bathrooms and kitchens, for example, may require more maintenance than other parts of your home. Telltale signs of potential trouble include leaks, cracks, and loose fittings. Watch out for anything odd, such as gurgling noises from sinks and toilets and metallic odors from power outlets. 

Finding such problems early on will not only save you money — it can also save you and your household members from danger. This is especially helpful if you have a makulit toddler or pet who likes to run about and play supervisor.

Get Handy with DIY Repairs

Are you dealing with a leaky faucet or a faulty light fixture? I-Google mo lang ‘yan, bes, or read up on our Home Buddies group for recommendations and pieces of advice. You’d be surprised at how easily some of these issues can be fixed on your own — and with stuff you probably already have in your toolbox — no need to splurge your hard-earned money on something you can do yourself. Minsan nga, it might just be a case of needing to tighten some nuts and screws — no special tools required.

Of course, it’s also a good idea to ask for help. Some don’t have the magic touch to fix electrical devices or tighten a loose screw. Before you call any kind of service, check if someone can do it for you. Your jowa or neighbor can quickly help you out — for free!

And in case you need extra insight, our Kapitbahays have got you covered. We swear — many of us are veterans in this kind of stuff. Just join the Home Buddies Facebook page and ask any questions you have. You’d be swarmed with tips, tricks, and other life-saving home hacks!

Invest in Quality Materials

It can be tempting to choose the cheapest option for items like appliances and furniture. After all, who doesn’t like bargains, ‘di ba? 

There’s nothing wrong with purchasing affordable items (we love them too), but ensure that quality isn’t sacrificed or compromised. Higher-quality items tend to last longer, which means you can save money for replacements. Plus, they also require fewer repairs. For sure naman, you’ll be able to find good deals here and there — just keep your eyes peeled.

Harness Energy Efficiency

There’s no reason not to switch to energy-efficient upgrades. Think about how much you use your refrigerator, aircon, or washing machine — and how much energy (and money) they consume. Often, these are the main culprits of why your monthly bills suddenly get so high.

The initial purchase price for appliances with energy-efficient technology may cost more than regular appliances. But, on a long-term basis, sulit na sulit naman because they have lower operational costs, saving you thousands of pesos annually. Energy-efficient appliances consume less electricity, which means lower energy billing costs. And since they’re built more efficiently, you’ll spend less on maintenance and replacements. 

Best of all? They are more environment-friendly options, which means the benefits go beyond yourself. Using less energy will reduce your carbon footprint, so you’ll contribute to Mother Earth's conservation and her valuable resources.

Bonus tip: Check out the calculator feature on our website to get a quick estimate of your appliance’s energy consumption.

Keep Annoying Pests and Mold at Bay

Dream home? Check. Energy-efficient appliances? Check. Everything’s perfect except for one persistent issue: cockroach infestations. They’re all out and about, especially this tag-ulan season. Yuck!

But cockroaches would be the least of your problems regarding pests and safety hazards. You might be dealing with more severe issues, such as termites, which chip away at your home’s foundations and fixtures. Molds, though not pests, are also safety hazards because they cause allergy symptoms, such as itching, a runny nose, and even fatigue.

Taking preventive measures like keeping your food sealed, sorting out cracks, and using natural remedies will help you in the long run. Devote some time to deep cleaning now and then to avoid moldy walls and corners. Don’t wait for a time when professional help is needed — save your future self from that headache.

Follow Your Maintenance Routines

Going back to our OG motto: Prevention is better than cure. Maintenance routines not only keep everything tidy and maganda tingnan, but it would also mean that you’re taking active steps to ensure your home is always in tip-top shape. 

Aside from your daily or weekly chores (sweeping, vacuuming, etc.), double-check your appliances. Pay extra attention to your ref’s coils and dryer vents, scrub your sinks and toilets squeaky clean, and clean your central A/C unit.

Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure that everything runs smoothly and help prevent the buildup of dirt and grime that lead to pesky, costly repairs. Besides, cleaning can be therapeutic — use that feeling to your advantage.

Effective Home Maintenance, But Make It Tipid

Sabi nga ng tito ni Spiderman, with a great home comes great responsibility. Or something to that effect. Basta, what’s important is to make good decisions and responsible homeownership, starting with maintenance, repairs, and setting the proper budget.

Any more tips you’d like to share? Tell us on Facebook — we’d love to hear them.