Making a resolution – or a few – is one of the most popular ways to celebrate a new year.
From weight loss to sugar detoxing, getting a promotion to going back to school, resolutions focus on just about everything. If you’re a new homeowner, though, here are five New Year’s resolutions that your new home, and those within it, will appreciate.
1 – Get Organized
For new homeowners, knowing where to put all of your gizmos and gadgets can be a bit of a headache. To help keep you sane through the duration of 2015, take a weekend in January to get your home organized. Use containers and bins to sort through things, and make sure to label anything that you need instant access to. And, don’t be afraid to throw things out – if you haven’t used something in the last two months, toss or donate it.
2 – Start an Indoor Herb Garden
An indoor herb garden can motivate you to cook (was getting healthy one of your resolutions, too?), will provide your home with a natural ambience, and will allow you to savour fresh tastes. Consider oregano, chives, mint, rosemary, and thyme, which are all herbs that will thrive indoors. If you’re not sure where to begin, use the Internet as a resource, or take a visit to your local gardening centre.
3 – Make Sure Your Home is Safe
A safe home is essential to keeping your family protected. If you haven’t already double-checked the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, now’s the time to do so. And as you move into 2015, don’t forget that double-checking for mould in bathrooms and basements will also be key to making sure that your family is as healthy as possible.
4 – Add Colour
If your new home isn’t already bursting with pops of colours, there’s no better time than the start of a new year to get creative. Whether it’s painting a wall, adding flowers to the kitchen table, picking out some fun throw pillows for the couch or bedroom, or even diving into a new craft project, make your house a home by adding colour and warmth this year.
5 – Be More Energy Efficient
There’s a good chance that your new home is already equipped with energy-efficient appliances, but there are still a number of steps that you can take to save energy and money in 2015. Consider using a programmable thermostat that automatically turns down the heat when you’re away from home; turn down the temperature on your water heater; seal any draughty windows and doors; turn off the water when you’re brushing your teeth; and vow to water your lawn less when summer comes around.
Having a new home is exciting, but if you don’t set goals to maintain and improve it over the course of its life, you may find yourself amidst clutter and drab. To keep your home clean, welcoming, fun, and the perfect place to relax, raise a family, or invite guests, set some resolutions and get to it!
Sources
http://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/jillian-harris-shares-years-resolutions-home/story?id=27886646