August 6, 2025

10 Hidden Home Maintenance Tasks That Could Save You Thousands

As a homeowner, you’re likely diligent about the basics—mowing the lawn, touching up paint, and cleaning regularly. But what about the critical home maintenance tasks you don’t see every day?


Research shows that home maintenance frequently takes a backseat, even with the best intentions. In fact, a recent survey found that 60% of homeowners have postponed necessary maintenance or repairs, while 40% admit to paying for a major home repair that could have been avoided with better upkeep.1


Still, it’s not just about avoiding costly emergencies—it’s also about maximizing the return on your biggest investment. According to research by Thumbtack, homeowners who do put in the extra care are rewarded: Well-maintained homes sell for an average of 10% more.2


Let’s explore 10 often overlooked home maintenance tasks and how they can save you thousands in long-term costs.


1. Gutter Cleaning: Your First Line of Protection


Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and seep into your home’s foundation, attic, or siding. Left unchecked, this can lead to foundation damage, rot, and even flooding.

 

The real cost of neglect: While professional gutter cleaning averages $162 nationally (up to $390 for multi-story homes), water damage repair costs can add up—averaging $5,100 for foundation damage and $4,300 for a flooded basement.3,4,5


Your action plan:


  • Clean gutters at least twice annually—in spring and fall.
  • Use a gutter scoop or hose to remove debris.
  • Consider investing in gutter guards to reduce future clogs.


This small task prevents major structural damage and prolongs the life of your home’s exterior.


2. HVAC Filter Replacement: Small Task, Major Impact


A dirty HVAC filter reduces airflow, causes your system to work harder, and increases energy use. It can also lead to health concerns from trapped contaminants circulating in your home’s air.6


The hidden costs: A neglected filter can lead to clamped-up coils, furnace failures, and sometimes a complete system replacement costing $4,000-$12,000.6


Your maintenance routine:


  • Replace filters every 1–3 months, depending on filter type, usage, and the number of pets in your home.
  • Opt for MERV 8–13 filters for efficiency and air quality balance.7
  • Schedule full-system annual servicing ($175–$550) to catch hidden issues early.8


This simple task saves on energy bills (15-20% according to the Department of Energy) and extends your HVAC system’s lifespan.8


3. Water Heater Flushing: Preventing Sediment Buildup


Over time, sediment accumulates in your water heater tank, reducing efficiency and shortening the unit's lifespan. Left unchecked, this buildup can cause leaks or complete tank failure.

 

The financial reality: Regular flushing prevents early replacement and may be required to maintain your water heater’s warranty.9 You can do it yourself or hire a professional for around $160.10

 

Your annual process:


  • Turn off power and water supply to the unit
  • Attach a hose to the drain valve and empty the tank completely
  • Check your anode rod; it may need to be replaced every 3–5 years.


This simple routine extends your water heater’s life and preserves energy efficiency.


4. Dryer Vent Cleaning: A Critical Safety Task


Lint buildup in dryer vents doesn’t just reduce drying efficiency—it’s one of the leading causes of house fires in the U.S.11 They also force your dryer to work harder and longer for each load.

 

The cost factor: Professional dryer vent cleaning costs about $144 nationwide, while fire-related damage can run into the tens of thousands.12

 

Your safety protocol:


  • Clean dryer vents every six months using a brush kit, or call in a professional.
  • Replace plastic ducts with rigid metal ones, which resist lint clogs.
  • Monitor drying times—longer than usual may signal a blockage.


This potentially life-saving task improves both safety and appliance efficiency.


5. Refrigerator Coil Cleaning: The 35% Energy Drain


Your refrigerator’s coils help expel heat. When coated in dust, they force the compressor to work harder, increasing energy bills and shortening appliance lifespan.


The efficiency impact: Dirty coils can increase energy use by up to 35% and, over time, can lead to costly repairs or replacement.13

 

Your simple solution:


  • Check your manufacturer’s guidelines; many recommend cleaning every six months.
  • Locate coils behind or at the bottom of the unit and use a vacuum or coil brush to remove dust and debris.
  • Keep condenser fan areas unobstructed.


This $0 DIY task can trim your electricity bill—and prevent early breakdown.


6. Garage Door Lubrication: Prevents Costly Repairs

A squeaky garage door means friction—and friction leads to wear on moving parts, costly spring damage, and failed openers.


The mechanical reality: A new garage door opener can cost between $350-$1000 installed, but a can of lubricant only costs about $10.14

 

Your annual routine:


  • Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to choose the right lubricant for your garage door.
  • Prioritize safety: Ensure the door is fully closed and cut the electricity.
  • Check for any signs of damage before proceeding, and call in a pro if needed.15


This simple task eliminates squeaks and avoids expensive mechanical repairs.


7. Sump Pump Testing: Your Basement's Guardian


Your sump pump quietly protects your basement from water damage—but it needs testing to ensure it works when you need it most.


The flood prevention factor: Sump pump failure during a storm can result in thousands of dollars in cleanup costs.5


Your quarterly test:


  • Pour water into the pit to ensure the float triggers the pump.
  • Confirm pump and drainage are working correctly.
  • Clean the inlet screen once per year to avoid clogs.


This 10-minute check gives peace of mind and avoids major flood damage.


8. Chimney Cleaning: Preventing House Fires


According to the National Fire Protection Association, the leading cause of home heating fires (30%) is a dirty chimney.16


The fire prevention imperative: Professional cleaning costs between $100-$350 and is crucial for anyone burning wood.17 The cost of ignoring this task includes chimney repairs and fire damage that can devastate homes.


Your annual safety check:


  • Hire a certified chimney sweep for inspection and cleaning, if needed.
  • Use only seasoned wood to reduce creosote buildup.
  • Install a chimney cap to block debris and critters.


Professional chimney maintenance is a non-negotiable safety investment.


9. Roof Inspection: Protecting Your Shelter


Your roof endures a lot—storms, sun, pests—and while damage may start small, it can become unbelievably costly if ignored.


The structural stakes: A professional inspection averages $239, but some roofers will offer one for free.18 Roof repair costs have surged 28.47% year-over-year.19 A new roof now costs $9,500 on average.20


Your inspection process:


  • Twice per year, perform a DIY inspection for missing shingles, cracked flashing, and sagging areas.
  • Check your attic for stains or leaks after rainfall.
  • Consider a professional inspection every 1-2 years, depending on your risk factors.18


Early intervention prevents thousands in repairs and helps retain resale value.


10. Water Pressure Monitoring: Protecting Your Plumbing


Many homeowners never check their home’s water pressure, but levels above 80 psi can damage pipes, appliances, and fixtures throughout your home, leading to premature failures and leaks.


The pressure problem: Water pressure that’s too high can damage your pipes and lead to expensive repairs or flooding. Pressure that’s too low can impact the performance of your faucets and appliances.21

 

Your annual check:


  • Use a water pressure gauge connected to an outdoor faucet.
  • Ideal pressure: 40-60 psi. Install a regulator if it runs high.
  • Monitor for sudden changes that could signal a plumbing issue.21


This small check helps you avoid hidden damage to your entire plumbing system.


Creating Your Home Maintenance Schedule


Rather than reacting to emergencies, create a proactive plan. Here's a maintenance chart that puts it all in one place:

The Maintenance Investment Reality


Homes with consistent maintenance routines sell for around 10% more than average.2 More importantly, budgeting 1–4% of your home’s purchase price annually helps prevent sudden, catastrophic expenses.22


As Lucas Puente, Economist at Thumbtack, notes: “Across the U.S., buyers should be prepared to spend at least a few thousand a year in home maintenance costs.”23


Bottom Line

Proactive home maintenance isn’t optional—it’s essential. The ten hidden tasks above are often overlooked, but they’re critical to preserving your home’s safety, energy efficiency, and resale value.


Ultimately, your home is an investment. Consistent upkeep helps you avoid emergencies, save on utilities, and protect your equity for the long term.


Ready to create a tailored maintenance plan for your home? I can connect you with trusted local service pros and show you how proactive upkeep contributes to your home's market value. Let’s talk about keeping your home in peak condition—and protecting one of your most valuable investments.


Sources



1.   Finance Buzz -
 https://financebuzz.com/homeowner-maintenance-repairs-survey

2.   Thumbtack -
 https://blog.thumbtack.com/investing-in-home-maintenance-pays-off-yet-the-majority-of-homeowners-are-under-budgeting-84426995b6c5

3.   This Old House -
 https://www.thisoldhouse.com/gutters/gutter-cleaning-cost

4.   This Old House -
 https://www.thisoldhouse.com/foundations/foundation-repair-cost

5.   Forbes -
 https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/plumbing/basement-flooding-repair-cost/

6.   HVAC.com -
 https://www.hvac.com/expert-advice/consequences-not-changing-your-air-filter/

7.   New York Times -
 https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/furnace-and-air-conditioner-filters-we-would-buy/#how-to-choose-a-filter-by-its-merv-rating

8.   Today’s Homeowner -
 https://todayshomeowner.com/hvac/cost/ac-tune-up-cost/

9.   Home Depot -
 https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-flush-a-water-heater/9ba683603be9fa5395fab901d7efffcd

10. Angi -
 https://www.angi.com/articles/water-heater-flush-cost.htm

11. National Fire Protection Association -
 https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/research/nfpa-research/fire-statistical-reports/home-fires-involving-clothes-dryers-and-washing-machines

12. Home Advisor -
 https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/cleaning-services/clean-dryer-vents/

13. U.S. Department of Energy -
 https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/purchasing-and-maintaining-refrigerators-and-freezers

14. Angi -
 https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-garage-door-opener-cost.htm

15. Lowes -
 https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/how-to-lubricate-garage-door

16. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency -
 https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2016-11/documents/kit_2_fast_facts.pdf

17. Today -
 https://www.today.com/series/how-often-should-you/chimney-cleaning-how-often-get-sweep-inspection-t104648

18. Angi -
 https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-roof-inspection-cost.htm

19. Bankrate -
 https://www.bankrate.com/home-equity/most-expensive-home-maintenance-costs/#home-maintenance

20. Nerdwallet -
 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/roof-replacement-cost

21. The Spruce -
 https://www.thespruce.com/testing-water-pressure-in-your-home-2718692

22. Home Guide - 
 https://homeguide.com/costs/average-home-maintenance-costs

23. Zillow -
 https://zillow.mediaroom.com/2017-07-31-Homeowners-Can-Spend-More-Than-9-000-a-Year-on-Hidden-Homeownership-and-Maintenance-Costs?mobile=No

Real Estate Market Update: What Mid-Year Indicators Mean for Your Next Move

July 1, 2025
As we reach the midpoint of 2025, the U.S. housing market stands at a critical juncture. The frenzy of the pandemic-era real estate boom has long since cooled, but in its place we’re seeing a market searching for balance. Higher mortgage rates, cautious buyers, and rising home inventory are combining to reshape what it means to buy or sell a home in today’s climate. “The housing market is at a turning point,” says Nadia Evangelou, senior economist and director of real estate research at the National Association of Realtors. 1 This turning point brings both challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just keeping a close eye on the market, understanding these evolving trends is essential. In this comprehensive market update, we examine four key factors influencing today's housing market and provide actionable strategies for navigating these evolving conditions.

Ready to Buy or Sell a Home? Here Are 5 Key Factors in Choosing the Right Agent

June 2, 2025
Navigating the real estate market without guidance is like starting an expedition without a map. Whether you're selling your cherished family home or searching for your dream property, having the right real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. According to a 2024 report from the National Association of Realtors, agent-represented homes sold for a median price of $435,000, compared to just $380,000 for those sold by owners alone. 1

Selling Your Home In 2025? Here's What Buyers Want (And How To Deliver)

May 5, 2025
Thinking about listing your home in 2025? If so, you're smart to start planning ahead. With housing inventory rising in many market segments, today’s sellers need more than just a “for sale” sign to stand out. 1 The good news? You can still make a strong impression and command top dollar—if you know what today’s buyers are really looking for. We’ve outlined six of the top homebuyer priorities in 2025, along with a clear action plan to help you position your property for success. Whether you're weeks or months away from listing, these insights will help you attract serious offers and maximize your return. BUYER PRIORITY #1: Move-In-Ready Condition Buyers want homes that are ready to enjoy from day one. In fact, a recent survey found that 94% of buyers said it was either “very important” or “somewhat important” to buy a home that’s move-in ready. 2 Properties that feel fresh and well-maintained are far more likely to attract competitive offers. Seller Action Plan: Refresh your interior. This might include painting rooms in neutral, contemporary colors and swapping outdated fixtures for more modern alternatives. We may also recommend that you take down heavy drapery or dated blinds to brighten your space and clean or replace flooring to create a clean and cohesive look. Fix anything that’s broken. If something isn’t working quite right, repair it now. Provide maintenance records, if you have them, and consider a pre-listing inspection to identify potential issues early—helping avoid delays or negotiations later. We can advise you on the best course of action given your circumstances and your home’s condition. Strategically enhance kitchens and bathrooms. Modern kitchens and bathrooms are a major selling point for many buyers. 3 While you don’t necessarily need a full remodel, smaller updates—like replacing kitchen appliances or retiling a bathroom shower—can make a big difference. At a minimum, ensure all surfaces–-including cabinets, countertops, and floors—are clean and in good condition, and address any grout issues or needed repairs. Our team can help you identify and prioritize strategic improvements that will maximize your home's appeal and market value. Contact us for a free evaluation! BUYER PRIORITY #2: Flexible Closing Timelines Many of today’s buyers are juggling complicated schedules and circumstances, especially if they need to time the sale of their current home with the purchase of their new one. If you are able to offer a flexible closing timeline, it can deliver an advantage. Seller Action Plan: Define your ideal timeline and explore your level of flexibility. We can discuss your goals and expectations for a closing timeline and consider how much flexibility you might be able to offer buyers. This will depend on your specific circumstances, but additional leeway can be helpful Make a plan to get out of your home quickly if needed. Some buyers need to move out of their current home quickly or relocate by a certain date to start school or a new job. Therefore, they may require an accelerated closing timeline. These buyers will be particularly interested in finding sellers who are willing and able to accommodate a fast closing. Worried about finding a new home if yours sells quickly? We can help you assess your options. 4 Leverage your real estate agent’s negotiation expertise. Closing dates can be tricky to navigate. As experienced professionals, we can help you work through the details to arrive at a mutually beneficial arrangement for you and the buyer. Trying to figure out a plan for your move? Schedule a free consultation to discuss your specific selling timeline and explore flexible closing options. BUYER PRIORITY #3: Assistance & Incentives The high cost of purchasing a home leaves many homebuyers financially tapped out. Offering strategic assistance and incentives can make your property stand out and attract a larger pool of potential purchasers. That’s why, in a recent survey of real estate agents, the majority recommended offering some type of homebuyer incentive. 5 Seller Action Plan: Consider closing cost assistance. Closing costs remain a significant barrier for many homebuyers, especially first-timers or those with limited savings. You might cover some of these expenses—such as mortgage fees or the buyer’s agent commission—using proceeds from the sale 6 . This type of assistance can make a big difference in helping buyers afford your home. Evaluate the value of a mortgage rate buydown. Another option popular with buyers is a temporary or permanent mortgage rate buydown. 7 This means that you pay a lump sum upfront to reduce their mortgage rate (and their monthly payments), making a home purchase significantly more affordable for buyers. Offer an improvement allowance or home warranty. For homebuyers who are already stretched financially, the cost of home improvements and repairs can be a big concern. One way to alleviate those concerns is to offer a home improvement allowance. For example, you could offer to pay a set amount toward new kitchen appliances or to replace worn carpeting. Another solution is to offer buyers a one-year home warranty from a reputable provider. The most effective incentive strategies will depend on your specific property and its target buyers. Our team can help you identify creative and impactful options tailored to your home. BUYER PRIORITY #4: Curb Appeal A well-maintained and visually appealing exterior, often referred to as "curb appeal," is essential for generating interest and bringing buyers in the door. In fact, 97% of Realtors say that curb appeal is important to buyers, and research indicates that properties with strong curb appeal tend to sell faster and for higher prices. 8 Seller Action Plan: Maintain an immaculate exterior. Ensure your landscaping is well-maintained while it’s on the market, with your lawn mowed, hedges trimmed, and flower beds weed-free. If this isn’t your strong suit, invest in a professional service. When it comes to your home itself, a welcoming entrance with a clean, freshly painted front door and updated hardware can make a big difference. Address visible exterior elements. Inspect and touch up any peeling or faded paint on the siding or trim, and repair or replace any damaged siding or roofing. Check that your walkways and driveway are in good condition and that your outdoor lighting is sufficient and in working order. Keep things clean. Thoroughly power wash the siding, walkways, driveway, and any other exterior surfaces to remove dirt, grime, and mildew. Clean all windows and screens, both inside and out, to maximize natural light and improve the overall appearance of your home. We’re happy to offer specific recommendations to enhance your property's curb appeal and to refer you to landscapers, painters, and other professionals for help. BUYER PRIORITY #5: Functional Spaces Today's buyers often prioritize properties that offer flexible and functional living spaces capable of adapting to their evolving needs, ranging from entertaining to remote work. 9 This includes the increasing importance of reliable, high-speed internet connectivity, which has become essential for work and school, smart home technology, and overall modern living. Seller Action Plan: Showcase versatile spaces to highlight their adaptability. Stage rooms to demonstrate their potential for various uses, such as a dedicated home office, a guest room that can also serve as a workout space, or a flexible living area that can accommodate a reading nook. Highlight storage and organization solutions. Functional living isn’t just about primary spaces—it’s also about smart storage. Showcase built-in shelving, closet systems, and other storage solutions that help keep the home organized and clutter-free. This gives buyers a sense of ease and livability. Keep connectivity in mind. Today’s buyers want high-tech capabilities without sacrificing style. 10 High-speed internet access has become increasingly important, and technology features—like home automation systems and built-in charging stations—offer seamless integration while preserving a clean, modern aesthetic. If your home features any coveted technology features, be sure to highlight them. Our team can help you stage your home to attract more potential buyers. Reach out for our recommendations! BUYER PRIORITY #6: Energy Efficiency & Sustainability With rising utility costs and a focus on environmental responsibility and clean living, buyers are looking for homes with eco-friendly features. 11 A few small changes can help you make the most of that desire and draw in conscious buyers. Seller Action Plan: Incorporate and highlight sustainable materials. Buyers are increasingly drawn to homes that feature eco-conscious design choices. If you’ve used sustainable materials—like bamboo flooring, recycled glass countertops, low-VOC paints, or reclaimed wood accents—make sure to highlight these details. They not only enhance your home’s aesthetic but also signal a thoughtful, environmentally responsible approach to design. Install energy-efficient features. While it isn’t always cost-effective to add these features solely to sell your home, if you plan on making any upgrades to windows, systems, or appliances, keep energy efficiency in mind. You may also want to consider upgrades like a smart thermostat that can both help cut utility bills and show potential buyers that your home is loaded with the latest technology. Take steps to reduce energy loss throughout the home. Simple upgrades like sealing gaps around doors and windows, adding weather stripping, or insulating the attic can significantly improve a home’s energy efficiency. 12 These improvements may seem small, but they can lower utility bills and demonstrate to buyers that the home has been well maintained with long-term savings in mind. We can help you identify the most impactful energy-efficient upgrades and highlight your home’s sustainable features to attract today’s eco-conscious buyers. Partnering for Success: Your Strategic Advantage in Today's Market Successfully selling your home in today’s competitive and ever-evolving market requires more than luck—it demands insight, preparation, and expert strategy. By aligning your listing with the priorities of today’s buyers, you’ll position your property to stand out and sell faster for top dollar. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way. From personalized recommendations and trusted vendor referrals to strategic pricing and marketing, we’re committed to helping you achieve a smooth and profitable sale. Ready to take the next step? Contact us today for a complimentary home value assessment and customized sales plan designed to make your property shine. Let’s work together to turn your real estate goals into reality! The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs. Sources: 1. The Mortgage Report - https://themortgagereports.com/111334/monthly-for-sale-home-listings 2. Bright MLS - https://brightmls.com/article/what-will-homebuyers-want-in-2025 3. Homelight - https://www.homelight.com/blog/which-renovations-increase-home-value/ 4. Homelight - https://www.homelight.com/blog/buyer-how-to-buy-a-house-while-selling-your-own/ 5. Homelight - https://www.homelight.com/blog/real-estate-top-agent-insights-for-end-of-year-2024/ 6. Federal Housing Finance Authority - https://www.fhfa.gov/blog/insights/opening-new-doors-overcoming-obstacles-to-attain-affordable-homeownership 7. LendingTree - https://www.lendingtree.com/home/mortgage/buydown/ 8. National Association of Realtors - https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/remodeling-impact-report-outdoor-features# 9. Yahoo - https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/home-trends-buyers-looking-2025-151535883.html 10. Apartment Therapy - https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/2025-house-style-trend-prediction-real-estate-37448456 11. National Association of Realtors - https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/sales-marketing/13-features-new-home-buyers-say-are-essential-desirable 12. EnergyStar - https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/why-seal-and-insulate