7 Things Every Homeowner Should KNow (But Probably Doesn’t)

7 Things Every Homeowner Should Know (But Probably Doesn’t)

Even the most experienced homeowners have those “wait… what?” moments. Whether you’ve been in your home for two years or twenty, there are a few things that can save you money, prevent headaches, and make your home run more smoothly — if you know them!

Here are seven homeowner truths that often slip under the radar:

1️⃣ Your Dryer Vent Needs More Love Than You Think

Even if you clean the lint trap regularly, lint still builds up inside the vent hose — a leading cause of house fires. Make it a habit to have your vent professionally cleaned at least once a year (especially if your dryer isn’t drying like it used to).

2️⃣ Your Water Heater Has a Reset Button — and a Drain Valve

Flushing your water heater once a year helps remove sediment that can shorten its lifespan. And that little red button on top? That’s a reset switch that can save you from an unnecessary service call.

3️⃣ Your Circuit Breaker Tells a Story

Label your breaker box clearly and test it once in a while. If a breaker trips often, that’s your home’s way of saying “I’m overloaded.” It’s better to fix the cause now than deal with wiring issues later.

4️⃣ HVAC Filters Matter More Than You Think

Changing your filter every 30–60 days keeps your air cleaner and your unit more efficient. Dirty filters force your system to work harder — driving up your bills and wearing it out faster.

5️⃣ That Gutter Leak Can Lead to Foundation Damage

Neglected gutters are sneaky. Water that doesn’t drain properly can seep into your foundation or cause wood rot around windows and fascia. A quick gutter check each season can prevent thousands in repairs.

6️⃣ Your Crawl Space Isn’t Just “Down There” — It’s Part of Your Home’s Health

If you live in Northwest Arkansas, humidity can cause moisture buildup and even mold beneath your home. Insulating and sealing your crawl space helps protect your home’s air quality and energy efficiency.

7️⃣ Your Home Insurance Doesn’t Cover Everything You Think It Does

Take 15 minutes to actually read your policy — or better yet, review it with your agent. Many homeowners are surprised to learn things like roof age, water damage, or detached structures may not be covered the way they assume.

Homeownership isn’t just about upkeep — it’s about awareness. The little things you learn (or re-learn) can make a big difference in keeping your home safe, efficient, and valuable for years to come.

If you ever need trusted local vendors — from roofers to crawl-space pros — reach out. I’’ve built strong relationships across Northwest Arkansas and love connecting homeowners with reliable help.

Jakey

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Journey