The year ahead presents great opportunity for fresh starts, new routines and home upgrades.
For many, the start of a new year means it’s time to set New Year’s resolutions – and hopefully stick to them. As a homeowner, some of these goals may pertain to the place you live.
Here are 12 ideas to refresh your home in 2025 and see it as a space that inspires new beginnings.
1. Get rid of unwanted goods
Kick off the new year with a major closet cleanout. Go through closets, drawers and storage spaces, and donate unwanted goods – including clothes, shoes, household items, pet supplies, packaged food products and more – to eliminate clutter, create space and stay organized. This is a good time to finally tackle a cluttered attic or basement, too.
2. Create a realistic cleaning schedule (and stick to it!)
When life gets busy, it can feel overwhelming – or even impossible – to keep your home clean. This year, create a simple cleaning schedule that works for you, write it down, and display it somewhere it will stay top of mind.
Instead of letting household tasks pile up, determine a few small tasks to complete each day, or commit to a regular time block like a Sunday reset. Keep the schedule sustainable so it’s something you can easily stick to even during your busiest weeks.
3. Ensure safety features are up to date
Check that your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers are in good working order and replace dated batteries. Additionally, make sure you have other updated essential fire safety equipment, like window ladders for emergency evacuation.
4. Cut energy costs
Make 2025 the year that you optimize your energy expenses at home. For example, try upgrading lightbulbs to energy-efficient LED options, sealing leaks and drafts around windows and doors, and keeping a close eye on your energy usage. For a more thorough evaluation, consider scheduling an energy audit with a professional to uncover inefficient energy errors that could be costly.
5. Complete a DIY project
From creating a DIY kitchen backsplash to repainting walls to redoing your landscaping to refurbishing a piece of furniture, get started on a home improvement project you’ve been meaning to tackle. Afterall, one of the perks of homeownership is curating a personalized space that is uniquely yours.
6. Start a home maintenance and repair fund
Taking a proactive approach to handling home repairs can save you time and money in the long run. Consider putting aside money each month for home maintenance and unexpected repairs that may pop up, like roof work, plumbing issues, appliance replacements and more.
7. Stay on top of seasonal upkeep
Create a seasonal checklist for reoccurring maintenance tasks like gutter cleaning, HVAC system servicing and yard care throughout the winter, spring, summer and fall. Staying on top of these regular maintenance items will help avoid unexpected issues and prepare your home for whatever the seasons bring.
8. Boost curb appeal
2025 is the year for your home to create lasting first impressions with curb appeal. Whether you’re in your forever home – or have plans to sell your space someday – refresh the exterior with simple updates that make a big impact. A new doormat, fresh coat of paint, updated exterior lights, revitalized grass, shaped hedges, new layer of mulch and potted plants can enhance curb appeal and give your home a renewed look. If you live in a colder climate, these will likely be considerations for springtime.
9. Host a dinner party
Ringing in the new year is an especially great time when surrounded by great people. Host a gathering with loved ones, serve your favorite dishes, reflect on the year past and look forward to the next. It’s a great way to connect with loved ones and share the warmth of your home.
10. Create a cozy coffee nook
Calling all coffee fanatics: This could be the year that you bring the cozy café feel to your own home. Create a coffee nook or hot beverage bar at home for a dedicated space for enjoying your favorite brews. It’s a simple way to enhance your home’s style – and even potentially save money on coffee shop visits.
11. Upgrade your sleep set-up
Invest in quality bedding, a comfortable mattress, calming lighting and a smart alarm clock to create a peaceful environment that promotes better sleep and relaxation, helping you recharge for whatever 2025 has in store.
12. Increase wellness features throughout your home
Make your home a space that supports your wellbeing. Maximize natural light, reimagine your outdoor area, create a designated reading zone and incorporate items that make you feel tranquil, like candles, essential oils and houseplants. Consider setting up a home gym, yoga space or a quiet meditation corner to support both your physical and mental health.
Looking for a new home for the new year? Get in touch with a local RE/MAX agent today.
Article originally appeared on RE/MAX.com.
