The new year is here, and many people are making resolutions to create a better life for themselves and their families. While some people are making resolutions to exercise, eat healthier, or save money, others may look at lifestyle improvements that start right at home. If you’re ready to spruce up your life on the homefront, here are a few ideas:
- Energy Efficiency: If you’re thinking about saving money or simply want to live more comfortably, it’s worth taking a look at the energy efficiency of your home. There are a surprising number of ways that energy can go wasted in a home. From drafty doors and windows to high consuming appliances. Appliances can be more efficient if they are clean and the coils/exterior is cleaned. Be sure to check/replace HVAC air filters every month so that they don’t get clogged with dirt particles that will cause them to work less efficiently. Even lowering your thermostat a few degrees will save money and lower your carbon footprint. Also, try adding curtains or blinds to decrease loss of heated/cooled air through older windows. These are some of the areas where a new home shines – higher insulation, more efficient doors, improved windows and appliances often make the cost of operating a newer home much lower.
- Improve Your Outdoor Living Space: The pandemic found many of us enjoying our yards and outdoor spaces more, for family time and for socially-distant gatherings. If you’re ready to make your outdoor space more comfortable for future get togethers, try adding patio lighting or new furnishings. Consider adding paver stones to expand the entertaining space, and a pergola or shade sails for outdoor covering from the heat. Be sure to add plants, flowers or trees, even if they are in pots. Expand your living spaces by creating the perfect outdoor retreat that functions for you and your family. This is another area where new homes offer great value – ready-made patios with electric outlets – ready for outdoor entertaining and enjoyment.
- Freshen a Room with New Paint: A quick and easy way to update your living space is by adding a fresh coat of paint. Even painting old furniture can give it a fresh look and a new life. Consider energetic colors or try the cooler contemporary grays and whites that are so popular today. Looking for inspiration? Visit a new builder model home – they showcase the latest colors and styles and offer great design ideas.
Freshening up your home is a great way to start the year. Prioritize your list and gather inspiration. Or, if you are like many others looking for a new home in San Antonio, consider a new planned community like VIDA San Antonio, where you will be able to choose from dozens of home plans by award-winning builders that are creating energy efficient plans for all sizes of homes. The VIDA community features homes of varying price ranges adjacent to Texas A&M – San Antonio. VIDA also includes miles of greenways and trails, parks and planned retail shops and restaurants – making for an easily walkable community for your new home. To learn more, visit www.LiveVida.com
