Just as it’s important for you to keep detailed records of your home business, your bills, income tax information or medical history, so too is it imperative that you keep a detailed record of all maintenance you perform on your home. After all, it is your biggest investment and it requires constant TLC to maintain its value and to ensure it continues to be able to protect your family from the elements and keep them secure. However, when you think about everything you have to do to take care of a home, setting up a manageable way of keeping accurate and detailed records can be an overwhelming task. But there are many options now available for the actual planner/diary . You can purchase, download for free or develop your own using a spreadsheet.
Take stock of current condition
Whether you are just purchasing your home or you’re just committed to setting up a manageable database of information, a home maintenance diary might be just the thing you need to get organized and stay organized. Begin with taking stock of your home’s current condition. Be brutally honest when you’re assessing the situation. You might want to categorize your diary by section of the home such as the exterior, kitchen, master bedroom, basement or you may choose to divide it according to tasks like painting, electrical, insulation, roof, landscaping, or climate control. Treat your initial walk-through as a real estate agent or investor might do. Study each corner, each tile and brick and notate any damage, defect or upkeep that needs to happen.
Schedule maintenance
As you look through your completed home maintenance diary don’t let it become overwhelming to you. Devise a plan with the rest of your family that works for everyone involved to complete needed tasks. Perhaps you’ll devote this weekend to painting the exterior and the following weekend you’ll focus on maintaining the landscaping. If there are tasks in your diary that you feel ill-equipped to handle, call a professional. The peace of mind knowing the job was handled by a professional is well worth it.
Be sure to have a separate section available for renovations, updates, or remodels that you’ve completed as well. Be sure to date these events and if there’s any notes regarding specific equipment used or products purchased be sure to jot that down as well.
