The first of the year rolls around and many Americans start thinking about how to spend their tax refund. Put it towards a family vacation? Use it for a down payment on a new car? Pay off holiday bills? Maybe it’s time to start thinking about ways to really put that refund to good use.
Whether you are a current homeowner or looking to become one, putting your refund towards your home may be one of the more financially beneficial decisions you can make.
If your plan for the new year is to purchase your first home, plan on saving that tax refund. It will come in handy for a down payment, moving costs or home inspections. Or perhaps you are holding off on getting pre-approved due to existing debt. Since you need to be mindful of your credit score and debt-to-income ratio prior to applying for a mortgage, paying down your credit card with the highest interest rate will move you one step closer to your goal of home ownership.
For the homeowners expecting tax refunds, consider making an extra payment towards your mortgage principal. If you’re able to make even one or two extra payments per year, you can save yourself thousands of dollars.
Other options for existing homeowners include updating and refreshing your home. Unless your new-to-you home is actually brand new, chances are the appliances, flooring and fixtures could use some updating.
Consider the age of your appliances. Perhaps they’re working fine now but thinking ahead and replacing them before they start to break down can save you time, money and frustration.
What about your hardwood floors or carpeting? Whether you’re planning on staying in your home or planning on moving, sprucing up your floors can bring new life to your rooms.
Perhaps your walls are covered in dated wallpaper, or the paint color doesn’t fit your ideal style and décor. Or maybe your fixtures are a bit dated. Using your refund to add a new coat of paint to your walls or update your lighting and cabinet fixtures will transform your rooms with renewed charm and elegance.
If you haven’t already, update your drafty windows and doors and add insulation to your attic. This option will save you money in the summer and winter by improving your cooling/heating systems efficiency.
Whether you choose a home improvement project, opt to make additional payments towards your mortgage principal or put your refund towards a down-payment on a new home, you simply cannot go wrong with investing in your home.
Your home is a life-time investment that you want to take pride in. Investing in upgrades and remodeling projects to refresh your home is always going to be a smart investment choice.