Podcast Episode 35 — Making a “House Book”

Today I’d like to talk about making a “House Book.”

A House Book is where you keep all the information about your house and how to take care of it. It should be so easy to use that your grandma can crack it open when you are on vacation and know how to solve any house-related problem, quickly and easily.

For this, I’d recommend a very large 3-ring binder and some plastic protective sleeves for each document. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can use dividers and make sections.

Start with your purchase paperwork and closing documents, title insurance, and the inspection report. The plastic sleeves will keep the documents protected.

Add all of the owner’s manuals and warranties for big items such as the AC unit, furnace, water heater, refrigerator, oven, washer & dryer, & dishwasher. You really don’t have to save the warranty on that $10 toaster.

Next, gather a list of companies that you have used (and liked). Make sure you have names, phone numbers, web addresses, business cards and past invoices for the window cleaner, painters, pest control company, roofers, lawn service, pool service, plumber, electrician, appliance repair man, HVAC crew, and even the company you used to pump out the septic tank.

It’s a good idea to keep your invoices for purchases or services. That way, you will be able to know at a glance that you replaced your roof 10 years ago and your water heater 6 years ago.

You’ll also want to include the information to contact your insurance agent, in case of emergency. It’s a good idea to put your homeowner’s insurance policy in the book too.

Do you have a house book? Send an email to lisa@lisasealey.com and let me know.