February can be a transitional month where winter is still sticking around but we have glimpses of warmer weather and longer days. It can inspire us to get started on some spring cleaning projects but reminds us also that snow could happen any day. Making a list of February home maintenance tasks can help keep us on track for those spring projects we are looking forward to starting. Here are some things you can do this month:

1. To get a jump on spring cleaning, start in the pantry. Take everything out, wipe down the surfaces and check the expiration dates on all food.

2. Check the charge on your fire extinguisher and replace any questionable ones in your home or garage. These are relatively inexpensive and will have expiration dates on them.

3. Vacuum clean your clothes dryer exhaust duct, refrigerator coils, vents baseboard heater and cold air returns. This will help you save on energy bills and could extend the life of your appliances.

4. Change the filter in your heating system after 30 days especially during peak usage months.

5. Check the door seals on your refrigerator by closing the door on a dollar bill and trying to pull it out as the door remains closed. If you can take it out easily, it’s time to replace the seals.

Remember Spring is around the corner and the heavy cleaning and organizing can start soon. Enjoy the last few cozy weeks inside with these projects. 

It’s tax season, which means it’s time to put some thought into how you are going to file this year, taking into consideration any major events that occurred like marriage, divorce, a new baby etc. Below are 6 tips to help you prepare:

1.    Use a Professional or DIY?

It comes down to what do you value more: money or your time? A professional will save you time but cost you more up front when doing it yourself will save money, but take up more of your time. A professional can also maximize your tax return-it all depends on your individual preference.

2.    Get Organized

Gather your checkbook, receipts, credit card statements and bank statements to make a list of payments that might be deductible. Make sure you have all your forms including your w-2 and 1099.   

3.    Itemizing Deductions

A number of deductions are available to taxpayers outside of the Home Mortgage Interest Deduction. Find out what counts as a deduction and see if it makes sense to itemize.

4.    File On Time

Avoid a penalty on late tax returns by filing on time even if you don’t believe you can pay. If you find you need more time, don’t be afraid to file for an extension.

5.    Decide How to Get Your Refund

There are a number of ways to receive a refund so educate yourself on the options. For example, you can get your refund check through direct deposit at no extra charge in as few as 10 days.

6.    Prepare for Next Year

A tax professional and some tax software will offer to help you plan for the next year, and it’s worth looking ahead. If you received a large refund, consider changing your W-4 to get more money back in your paycheck. Or, if you owed a lot of taxes, consider making estimated payments next year to minimize future payments and penalties.

In the end, filing your tax return involves a lot of organization and attention to detail. If you aren’t confident in doing it yourself, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. You can always call the IRS for free tax advice at 1-800-829-1040 or visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov

Cleaning your kitchen can be a task that not many people look forward to. However, it’s one of the most bacteria-ridden rooms in the house. Here are seven kitchen-cleaning tips you will love:

1.     Wrap vinegar-soaked paper towels around faucets for an hour to remove lime and mineral deposits.

2.     Clean your blender or food processor by putting a few drops of liquid soap and hot water into the device and blend away the mess.

3.     Soak your oven racks in the tub for 45 min with half a cup of dishwasher detergent and warm water to clean them.

4.     Drop slices of lemon or lime into the sink disposal to freshen it up.

5.     For your microwave, mix 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar and 2 cups of water into a bowl. Microwave on high for two to three minutes. Wipe the microwave down with paper towel afterwards.

6.     If food spills over and burns the oven floor, sprinkle salt on it to reduce smoke and make it easier to clean later.

7.     To remove burned food on a pan, add dish soap and a ½ inch of water, bring to a boil, cool and then wash.

These easy tips can help save you money on cleaning products and are safe ways to keep your kitchen clean! 

With snow and ice piling up on our roofs, it’s time to remember to pay extra attention to your attic space. Many factors of winter create issues that start at the top of the house, and trickle down to the lower floors. Remembering these few points, and being proactive in home repair will help you out during the winter months.

Ventilation: An attic has to breathe in order to function properly. If your vents are stuffed with debris, get them cleared professionally to ensure maximum airflow.

Leaks: When it rains, shine a flashlight up in your attic to look for dripping water and condensation. If you see water stains on the ceiling, wall or floor, water is finding its way through your roof. A roofing contractor should be called.

Animal damage: We know that in the cold weather, animals move inside. If you see nests or gnawed wood, wires or insulation, call a professional. Any animal living in your attic can cause disease or damage.

Structure: If you notice sections of your roof sagging, you might have potential structural weakness that could require professional repair.

Keeping an eye on your attic and roof should help you prevent any major damage early. The faster you respond and get any issues fixed, the better off you will be as the winter continues.

Everybody notices the lull that occurs during the holidays, where our phone doesn’t ring as much during work. Most people are indulging in the season and their minds aren’t on big decisions or plans. Homebuyers, however, should be taking advantage of this time. There are plenty of houses to purchase right now, but not a lot of competition for them. People are more inclined to wait until after the New Year and end of January to start looking again. Here are some reasons why if you are considering purchasing a home, you should get out there now.

Competition: People who know they are going to be busy and traveling during the holidays put off looking for a home until after the New Year. There are plenty of homes on the market but not as many people looking at them.

Functionality: During the winter is when all systems are put to the test in a home. The heat, plumbing, roof and gutters all need to perform. Checking out a house in the winter allows you to see what really works and how well.

Investors: While you might think a slow winter season means investors are out looking, they are actually trying to find new properties, mostly ones that aren’t on the market yet. Chances are an investor wouldn’t outbid you during the slow season.

 Inventory: A slower sales season means less inventory, but also more motivated sellers. The sellers will want to close the deal, especially for tax purposes. The end of the year means the seller will want to tie up loose ends and the deal might be the best.

Things will be picking up soon as we roll into January. If you are thinking of waiting, get aggressive and see what you can find before the competition intensifies.