7. Be Prepared
Home systems and appliances don’t last forever, and even with the best maintenance, they will break down eventually. So, it’s important to be prepared for these expenses by including them in your budget and protecting yourself with a homeowners warranty. Be sure to know the difference between homeowners insurance vs home warranty. It’s also a good idea to save up for these repairs and upgrades by starting early. This may mean setting aside just $100 a month, but it will help reduce the stress of unexpected repairs and lessen the chance of racking up credit card debt. In some cases, it could also mean asking contractors for a cash price instead of one that’s based on credit.
