- May 25th, 2023
For most of us, our home is the largest investment in our portfolio. Real Estate investment is generally considered one of the best and most stable investments we make with our hard-earned money. Taking steps to protect our investments should be priority number one in ensuring that wealth continues to appreciate over time. As we approach the heat of Summer and Hurricane Season in South Carolina there are several ways you can protect your Real Estate investment.
The summer heat in South Carolina takes a toll on your HVAC systems because they work hard to keep you cool during the hot and humid summer months. This can be especially true close to the coast where the salt air can cause damage to your system.
· Preventive Maintenance. Many Heating & Air companies offer preventive maintenance plans that service your system either quarterly, bi-annually, or annually. When considering these options, make sure you consider the savings from your highly functioning HVAC system v. the cost of the maintenance package to ensure that you make the right choice for you and your budget. You can also do other maintenance around your home to ensure that your systems are operating efficiently like changing air filters, ensuring that the seals on your windows aren’t broken, etc.
· Smart Technology. Installing a programmable thermostat such as a Nest or Ecobee is a great way to save money on your energy bills during the summer heat. You can adjust from your phone whether you are at work or away on vacation to ensure you aren’t spending excess money when the South Carolina weather changes its mind halfway through the day, which happens often!
· Mother Nature to the Rescue. Planting trees that will help offer your home some shade gives you some protection from the summer sun. That extra shade could save you a few dollars in cooling costs.
· Home Improvements. Take advantage of all that sunlight and go solar! There can be tax benefits and energy savings, just make sure you do your research if you live in a community with an HOA and are allowed to install them in your neighborhood. Smaller scale projects like awnings, and Bahama shutters can also add to the aesthetic look of your home while blocking direct sunlight from entering your home.
· Review your Coverage. Before storm season take a few minutes to read through your insurance coverage. AFTER a storm causes damage to your home is definitely NOT the time to figure out that your coverage didn’t include all the wind and storm damage your home just sustained.
· Home Improvements. Installing impact-resistant windows, doors and storm shutters can protect your home from both high winds and flying debris when a Hurricane blows through our area.
· Back-up Power. You can also go the extra mile and install a back-up energy source like a back-up generator. This will help with your peace of mind in the moment as well as ensure you don’t lose food, hot water, etc. if a storm knocks out the power at your home.
There is much more information available on Hurricane season, preparedness, and evacuations at Hurricane.sc. Check it out!
Even with precautions and improvements in place you might not get lucky when severe weather comes our way. However, taking steps like these can help reduce the impact of any property damage you might suffer. After all, we want you to protect your investment!