Editor’s note: Love is in the air. Why not part with tradition and observe Valentine’s Day in a way that also involves your home? After all, home is where the heart is. Sure, you could make reservations. But maybe the ultimate in romance is a candlelit evening at home. And those long-stemmed red roses have their appeal, but what about buying your sweetheart (or yourself!) a rose bush that will provide endless blooms? And if you’re celebrating solo, there’s no better way to treat yourself than splurging on something beautiful for your home – it’s a gift that keeps on giving. To inspire you, we’re delivering a weeklong bouquet of tips for filling your home with romance.
When February rolls around, we’re often thinking of little ways to show our loved ones how special they are to us. Why not take the opportunity to do the same for your home?
While you can’t send your home a box of chocolates or a card, there are plenty of things you can do to show it a little love this Valentine’s Day.
Make easy DIY updates
Even if you’re not planning on selling your home anytime soon, it’s always good to make small improvements to increase your home’s value. Plan a quick weekend project, like one of the following:
- Install a no-touch faucet on the kitchen sink
- Swap those brass drawer pulls from the ’90s with a more modern design
- Replace the old fluorescent light fixtures in the bathroom
- Upgrade the frameless builder-grade mirror to a more stylish one
- Paint the front door and shutters a vibrant color you love
These simple changes can make a huge difference in how you see and enjoy your home – and make it easier to sell when the time comes.
Buy it something pretty
Just like buying a new ensemble usually lifts your spirits, purchasing something you love for your home will instantly put you in a great mood.
Buy that gorgeous vintage door you’ve been eyeing online (after carefully measuring, of course). Upgrade the curtains the previous owner left behind, buy something colorful and cheery to change the room’s look, or take the plunge and finally purchase that department store rug.
Cultivating great style in your home doesn’t usually happen overnight, but occasionally purchasing items that that make you happy will eventually result in a space you love.
Make happy memories in it
When you first looked at your home, you might have said something like, “This would be a great space for entertaining.” Since moving in, however, have you actually entertained in your home?
If you haven’t (or if it’s been awhile), consider hosting a potluck or a casual dinner with friends and family.
But don’t think you have to scrub the floors for three days and prepare a feast. There’s no need to get too fancy when you host – all you really need is great friends, lively conversation, and good food. Make a menu, choose the music, and hang some string lights or light some candles to create a festive atmosphere.
Save money on it
If mortgage rates are down and you’re interested in lowering your monthly payments, you might want to consider refinancing your home.
Though saving money on your mortgage is the most obvious reason to refinance, many homeowners choose to refinance so they can change from an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) to a fixed-rate mortgage. This can make payments more predictable and less dependent on how the market is doing.
Knowing that you are making the best financial decisions when it comes to your home will ultimately make you happier to be there.
Make sure it’s protected
Reviewing your home insurance policy may not be the most exciting way to spend an evening, but it’s a good way to make sure there aren’t any obvious gaps in your coverage.
Read your policy carefully. Are you overly insured? Or are you overpaying for the amount of coverage you’re getting? Remember that standard coverage often doesn’t often pay for flood or earthquake damage, so check your policy and understand what’s covered in the rare case of a disaster.
If you find areas for improvement, shop around for a new insurance company or work with your existing provider to create a plan that makes you feel more prepared and secure. Understanding the ins and outs of your insurance policy is the best way to look after your pocketbook – and it will likely help you sleep better at night, too.
A home is more than just a roof over your head – it’s a place that’s meant to be loved and enjoyed. Try some of these quick tips this weekend, and you’re sure to fall in love with your home even more.
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