Home Maintenance Apps and Resale Value: Finding the Right Fit
Preserving your resale value starts with spending time and money on small repairs rather than waiting until you need a major renovation. Luckily, there are home maintenance apps built for busy owners who have a lot of other responsibilities on their plate. Far more than just a glorified notes section on your phone, the wide variety of apps available means you can tailor the experience specifically to your property. We'll look at some popular apps so you can determine if they're right for you.
Appliance Management
Can't find the user manual for your dishwasher? Unsure of how to troubleshoot a stuck water valve? Apps like Centriq were designed to provide critical information about your appliances. All you have to do is take a photo of the product label, upload it into the app and access the data. The app can also alert you if there are any safety recalls to the appliances so you can keep your home safe.
Landscaping Management
Ignoring your soil, shrubs and flowers can make the entire property look neglected. Apps like iScape were designed to help people find plants that will accent the home's best features (and thrive in your climate). These augmented reality suggestions can make your yard more functional when you're there and more attractive to potential buyers when you're ready to put it on the market.
Chore Management
From changing filters to replacing batteries, standard home maintenance tasks are easier to keep up with when you have an app. Get the alerts you need and pare down your to-do list one by one. Apps like Househappy not only streamline information about your home's major systems (e.g., electrical, plumbing, etc.), but can also connect you to contractors if you have a question or if you have an issue that you're not quite ready to take on alone.
Project Management
If you're the kind of homeowner who wants to ramp up their DIY skills, apps like DIY Tip Genius are there to inspire. With ideas for every skill level, this can be a great way for anyone to dip their feet into the DIY pool. Whether you repaint, install your own shelves or do a mini-bathroom makeover, becoming more invested in your home sends a strong message to potential buyers. You're telling them that this property has been well-cared for.
Financial Management
The right financial tools can help you understand more about your equity and depreciation. Apps like HomeZada can tell you more about what you own and how values are changing over time. From insurance to home sale price, you can get a sense of how the forecast should impact your home maintenance plans. For example, does it make sense to replace or repair your roof if you're planning to sell a year from now?
The right home maintenance app depends on your interest, DIY skills and future plans. Those who are in a seller's market may only need to do so much maintenance to keep their home at the top of its game. No matter what, the technology can be a game-changer when it comes to simultaneously preventing major issues and improving the home's resale value.