Financial Tips to Do Better

The leaves are changing, the décor comes out of storage, and kids count the days until they're overwhelmed with sugar.

Fall is here. Longer nights and cooler weather are a nice reprieve from the hot days of summer, but winter is right around the corner – and now's the best time to plan for the season ahead. It's also a good time to give your home a little extra attention. While cleaning gutters or sealing windows might not sound like fun weekend plans, fall is the perfect season to get your house in top shape.

Now's the time to bust out a little extra elbow grease to prevent big expenses down the line. Between winter storms, freezing temperatures, and the extra costs of the holiday season, your budget can easily feel stretched. We'll help you track down key maintenance tasks to protect your home and finances before the first snow falls.\

Your Home Needs Check-ups Too

It might feel foreign to think of your home as your most important investment, but you've put a lot of money into it, so taking care of it should be a top priority. You go to your yearly health check-up or visit the dentist, doesn't your home deserve the same treatment? Regular upkeep maintains your home’s good condition and prevents minor issues from turning into major repairs.

Ignoring a small roof patch could lead to leaks, water damage, and even mold. Drafty windows left unrepaired can drive up heating costs all winter. By handling small projects now, you're protecting your home and your budget, and giving yourself fewer worries in the months ahead.

FALL MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

Fall is the perfect time to run a maintenance check on your home. The summer heat is finally fading, making outdoor work more bearable. Fixing smaller problems now can prevent big headaches later. Use this checklist as a guide to keep your home safe, comfortable, and efficient this winter and throughout the year:

Interior

Inside your home is where comfort matters most. Regular maintenance can improve air quality, reduce utility bills, and increase safety.

• Replace filters: Swap out your air filter to ease pressure on your heating system. Don't forget smaller filters in appliances like air purifiers, humidifiers, and refrigerators. And while you're at it, clean the dryer lint trap too.

• Inspect HVAC/furnace: Scheduling a professional inspection helps prevent breakdowns and keeps your system running smoothly.

• Test sensors: Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms - replacing batteries if needed.

• Check insulation: Adding attic insulation reduces heat loss and lowers electric and gas bills.

• Clean the fireplace: Maintaining a clean chimney ensures safe use and helps prevent chimney fires.

• Rotate your mattress: Rotating regularly extends the life of your mattress and keeps it more comfortable.

Exterior

Your home's exterior takes the brunt of winter weather. A little work now can prevent water damage and costly repairs.

• Inspect the roof: Look for damage or missing shingles before rain or snow arrives.

• Clean the gutters: Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs, leaks, and ice dams.

• Check window & door seals: Replacing worn seals keeps cold air out and reduces heating costs.

• Examine the siding: Repair cracks or holes in your home's siding to block moisture.

• Touch up the paint: Adding a fresh coat improves curb appeal and protects surfaces from the elements.

How to Pay for Your House Upkeep

Some fall projects are quick and inexpensive. Others, like replacing a roof or updating a kitchen, require more planning and money. If you're looking at a bigger project this season, Atlantic offers financing options that can help you get the job done without straining your budget or accumulating costly high-interest debt.

• Home Equity Loan: A traditional Home Equity Loan lets you borrow against the equity you've built in your home while using the property as collateral. You receive a lump sum of cash upfront – making it ideal for big projects like finishing a basement or replacing windows.
  • Fixed interest rate that never changes.
  • Consistent monthly payments for easier budgeting.
  • Peace of mind knowing your financing is locked in.
  • Best for projects with clear costs and timelines.

• Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): A HELOC is similar to a traditional Home Equity Loan, but it works more like a credit card. Instead of one lump sum withdrawal, you borrow as you need it. This flexibility is particularly useful for projects that occur in stages, such as remodeling multiple rooms.

• • Borrow funds in phases as needed.
  • Pay interest only on what you use (not your approved credit limit).
  • Ongoing access to funds during the draw period (typically between 5 and 10 years).
  • Great for projects with evolving costs or timelines.

• Personal Loan: For smaller projects, such as replacing appliances, adding fixtures, or painting, a Personal Loan may be the simplest option. You don't need to use your home's equity, the process is quick, and interest rates are usually significantly lower than traditional credit cards.

• • Fixed rates ensure your payments will never change.
  • Clear loan terms and repayment schedules that fit your budget.
  • Fast approval process so you can start your project sooner.
  • Perfect for lower-cost or minor projects.

Each option has its advantages, and the right fit depends on your project and goals. The credit union's lending team can help you decide which solution makes the most sense for your needs.

TLDR:

As fall arrives, prepare your home to avoid winter expenses by tackling key maintenance tasks. Think of it as a check-up for your home, addressing issues like roof repairs, gutter cleaning, and HVAC inspections. Use a home equity loan, HELOC, or personal loan from Atlantic to finance larger projects without straining your budget. Regular upkeep safeguards both your home and finances, allowing you to enjoy the season worry-free.

We're Here to Help!

Taking care of fall maintenance now means fewer problems later - and a cozier, more comfortable home all winter long. Whether you're crossing smaller tasks off your checklist or planning a major renovation, the credit union is here to help with lending solutions that fit your plans.

If you'd like to learn more about our Home Equity solutions to help you meet your home goals, we're happy to help. Please stop by any of our convenient branch locations or call 800-834-0432 to speak with a member of our lending team today.

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The Atlantic Financial Tips to Do Better strives to deliver informative, relevant, and sometimes fun financial information. If you enjoyed this article, please forward it to a friend.

Each individual's financial situation is unique, and readers are encouraged to contact the Credit Union when seeking financial advice on the products and services discussed. This article is for educational purposes only; the authors assume no legal responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of the contents.