I am in Florida. I have a Eucalyptus tree whose branches were hanging over my home like that. I spoke with some neighbors and said I needed someone affordable to trim the tree back ahead of Hurricane Helene. A young Hispanic man came by and said he would do the work for around three-hundred dollars, which made me a bit skeptical because it was quite a bit of work. Come to find out he owns a tree trimming company and they were having a bit of a slump in work that week, so he had been asking around the neighborhood if anyone needed tree work done and one of the neighbors I spoke to sent him to my house. I like to put out feelers on the neighborhood grapevine sometimes, it has served me well over my lifetime. I did give the guy extra money as a bonus because he knocked the job out quick, he also cut up all of the branches and stacked them neatly for pickup at the curb.
With the kitten get a cheap baby holder from thrift store or make your own and just carry him around in that. They love it as they are up at your level and your heart beat comfort them.
I own my home. I have to replace my water tank.Mines only lasted me six years and four month. This will be my second water tank after six years. For yours to have lasted 16 years is awesome . It ‘s like they only make them to last for a short time now.
There is an inexpensive extending branch trimmer that we got and it would work really well on those branches out front for you. We have to remove a beautiful bush at the corner of the house as well. I learned i can root it so I will do that and grow another somewhere else. Yours looks like a big boxwood- a nursery or builder might want to just come get it and replant it. I got two big evergreen bushes taken away. Our big expense this coming year is TBD. Lots to choose from! Haha. I’d like new cupboards in this kitchen.
My cat is glued to me whenever I'm not at work. I just roll with it. He follows me everywhere and settles in whenever I sit down or lay down. I love it
Hello from Australia again Dawn, this year I need work done on my bathroom and it’s a priority. I would also like the motivation to get the paint brush out and do a few touch ups on the inside of my house. You are exactly right when you own a house there is always something that needs doing from the lawns to major works.
The house that I am still paying mortgage on I would love to get the basement wall fixed, the wooden floors redone, maybe a new paint job on the walls. The house I live in with my boyfriend needs a new roof, and the porch shored up. ♥️♥️The snow family ☃️☃️☃️❄️
So happy I don't own! If I owned this one, I can see the utility valves look the same as yours but we had no issues when we bought used older model washer. The bathroom faucets, hall toilet and master bath cabinet where a previous plumbing problem messed up the interior base and flooring need replacing. Old master shower could be updated. Trees need to be trimmed and one section of the back fence needs to be replaced. Interior DIY painting wasn't quite finished when we moved in so that would need to get done. Some of the exterior wood where they had a termite issue needs to be replaced, looks like they just painted over the existing. Not sure about the gas stove. Micro and refrigerator needs to be replaced. Front lawn needs to be resodded. No idea what the cost would be but I've estimated when I move, the landlord will have to spend around $10K (??) to attract either renters or buyers.
That's such a cute little house! All of our 50's-60's ranchers like it in Houston are just about totally gone now. Plumbing & electrical work for modern appliances can be a little tricky with them tho. Lord Tubbington just needs a little tough love that's all, I've got 5 I look after. I'll make a video on how I handled the orange cat of ours who's the same way.
Merry Christmas Dawn. I would like to get my electrical panel updated to current code in order to protect my appliances and prevent fire. I would also like to update my landscaping for low maintenance.
What do you do with a kitten that loves to be held 24/7? You hold him 24/7! ❤😂 My husband is out changing a client's water heater this morning. It was leaking bad! 😮 Merry Christmas Eve Eve, everyone! 🎄🎁❤️
My stove has seen better days, but it still works, painting needs to be done on the outside of the house, will have to wait till spring, I need some tree stumps removed, and a tree trimmed, will do all this myself, with the help of my son. Merry Christmas.😊🌲☕🎉💕
Just like you, Money Mom, I have learned the hard way, that it is always good to set money aside monthly for home and car maintenance; and to plan ahead for the important stuff. This approach keeps down the very real expenses of caring for what we own; and, home maintenance does not get so behind, that I cannot financially bring it right. Performing annual tasks is the way to go - much less stress, and limits the possibility of unexpected emergencies on the home front. * I had to remove a tree this month - 30' tall, $2K for tree removal, haul away, and stump grinding. * 2025 is almost here. I am doing my own fence work (sealing and picket replacement), and I do my own yard work - mowing, bush trimming, planting, etc. That allows me to save money for other things. As long as I am able to do my work (I am not a speedy lawn person, LOL), I will do it. It is good for the body as well as the budget. * Inside - I repaint one room a year. This way I avoid having an entire house that hasn't been painted for 10+ years. The ceilings all count as one room, that way the ceiling paint matches in the open floor plan area, which comprises "three" rooms - kitchen, dining, and living area. Painting myself (thank you RUclips!), saves me thousands. With the right equipment, and training from RUclips, there is not much ladder climbing, which is always a great thing. * The kitchen, and bathroom cabinets are getting attention (finally) this year. I am going to try using the Antique Walnut General Finishes Oil stain on the golden oak cabinets - I will let you know how that turns out. Prep is 90% of the job - there is no way to hurry thorough cleaning, and thorough surface preparation. So, prep is where I will focus my effort, one frame, one cabinet door at a time (I am not in a hurry). I won't go forward until I know I am really ready to stain the cabinets. No point doing a bad job, because when that happens, you have to undo the problem, before you do it right. That is more than double the work, compared to doing the prep and painting/staining right the first time. Ask me how I know! (I know because I failed to do a sample spot with paint on something I wanted to touch up - and the paint all wrinkled. That was UGLY! as well as extremely time consuming. Then, to add insult to injury, It always seems to rain when one is trying to undo a failed paint project. That really slows down drying time. * That's how I know. Learn from my mistake. This time, I will prep an area on the inside of a cabinet door, apply the General Finish Oil Stain and see what happens. If the finish wrinkles - well, at least it is confined to one area, and I know I will have to find a different product to do the cabinets. * I love being in charge of what happens on the home front. Over time, home maintenance in this house (28 year old house), has averaged $2K a year (total divided by years lived here). It would probably have been less, but the previous owner quit maintaining the house six years before I bought it, and lots of things had gone unattended that I had to repair, when I purchased the house. * Thankfully, all of those things were taken care of prior to the pandemic - because it is now MUCH MORE expensive, and some things I took care of five plus years ago, I could not afford to do today (like retiling the house - just the tile cost has more than doubled). That is important to keep in mind - things may be less expensive now than they will be later.
My brother’s house had those same bushes. Their roots are tough !!! One of my nephews tried pulling it up with his truck. After loosening up the soil and cutting around the roots, he still managed to rip off his bumper. Best leave it to the pros unless you’ve got all the equipment 😮
Merry Christmas, Dawn and family. I hope you have a nice holiday. I'll be working. I noticed what appears to be a small hole on the right side of the drywall by your shower. I'd patch that soon so moisture doesn't make it work. Easy fix. Just a suggestion.
I am planning to have my living room painted by a professional painter including painting the timber windows which are currently stained. It is the cheapest way to really bring a home up to date I think. I have had my main bedroom painted including the timber windows and I'm very happy with it. Also new blinds on the windows and new curtains. They're 25 years old! So far I have paid deposits on the blinds and curtains to be made. I can't get a painter until the first week in March but I'm happy to wait because I'll have the cash to pay him. I am doing one feature wall and the rest will be a neutral colour. I think your plans are very sensible. Making sure your electricity is up to code and that trees are not going to do damage is good preventative maintenance.
I need to replace the kitchen faucet. It has a small hole and leaks. My back deck stairs are rotten and need to be replaced. Otherwise I cant go out the back door to hang my clothes. The windows are cracked and need to be replaced however the window sill is rotting so i need to have that fixed before I can replace the windows. The trees need to be trimmed and there are parts of the floor that feel like they are a tad bit lower than the rest of the floor. Also I think my toilet needs a new part. 😅
Shower doors are a pain to clean. As long as the floor around the toilet isnt soft your most likely right about the water coming from the shower. We plan on planting a few more trees, expanding the garden furthet, fencing the back half. 2 of our collies are very old. We have been discussing getting a pup. Our oldest girl has some younger brothers who are rather... active. The possibility of gettng a niece or grand niece of hers is tempting. Our girl had 2 boys. One was beautiful but disabled. The other has a disqualifying trait. Both were neutered. Her younger sibs are around 7 so... its getting to now or never time...
Precious little kitty!! ❤ Sounds like you are staying on top of everything! 🎉 We will be moving back to Michigan from NC in 2025. We may need new carpet but will check with a realtor. Need to paint and do touch up work.
Money Mom in my experience, when it comes to valves, please be careful on what they replace them with! Valves sometimes get replaced with a plastic valve which breaks easier. If you can, choose metal valves, they are a little more expensive but they will last waaaayyyy longer than plastic. For your shrubs, the ones in the front look small and young so can likely be replanted if you wanted to bring them away from the house (if you live in a fire zone, they might be considered a hazard). I had to learn the hard way that the taller and older ones mess up the foundation and the French drain (if there is one, legally required here as it prevents water from pooling around the foundation). Another great list of great projects Money Mom, sounds fun!!!😅Cheering you on every step of the way!!!💕
Merry Christmas Eve Dawn, Al & Everyone.✨️🎄🎁✨️If you had some long handle trimmers, you could trim the branches away from the front of your beautiful home. Your furture son in law may volunteer!🎅☃️☃️☃️ 🤶 Also an electric saw will cut down that bush! Trim from the sides, to the middle. Once, slim enough, cut in half. Keep sawing till removed! 🌳 My sun porch will need painting, and pressure wash the driveway! Dawn, if your kitty loves to be held, get him a soft stuffed animal his size, ball of knitting yarn and keep hugging him! ✨️😺🐾✨️😇✨️⭐️
We just had all new siding, soffit, fascia and gutters installed. Our next project for 2025 will be getting a new shower, water heater and flooring in our basement bath. The plumbers actually came this morning...bracing myself for the estimate!
The tree does not look huge to me, but there is a problem with proximity to the roof. In case of branches just slightly rub the shingles, they can perforate/damage and you will have a leak in the roof
Dawn, we live in the money pit too. Our goals are: dumpster for the ruthless, heartless, gigantic purge of crap. + We are going to concert to gas instead of oil. Really need to sock it away..and my dining room ceiling is peeling and falling off to the floor. It needs to be done by a professional. So no vacation for us.
We have BIG goals for 2025. Getting my floors tiled. That will be in March. Building our garage later this Spring to start that and maybe 2025/26 concreting the gravel driveway. Those are the biggest expenses. We also have to finish our deck around the pool in the back yard. (Already have all the lumber) and my husband is going to build a corner linen closet in our bathroom. Our house we started building ourselves 10 years ago, so everything is fairly new except my washer and dryer which are 26 years old.
What we would like to do next year- for sure a water heater. It’s fine right now but getting close to needing replacement. Want to do it before it floods. Next project is to pull out our remaining carpet & put in wood flooring. Want the whole house to be uniform. Didn’t know you have a kitten. We recently rescued a cat (2 years old). First time cat owners. We’ve always had dogs. It’s been a year since our last dog passed away. It was time to rescue another pet. We are loving it!
We do own our home. 2025 we are putting in a couple of new windows and revamping our main bathroom. We already have the windows. We got them from the Habitat Restore, Im now looking for a freestanding tub and a massive vanity.
Gutter Guards! I can no longer go up and clean them out, and it’s $250 every 3 months to have someone come clean them. So I’d rather get the gutter guards and spray them off every 3 months than continue paying to have them cleaned ❤
I need to replace my hanging dining room light fixture. I would also like new carpeting in my bedroom, big room, alot of heavy furniture to be moved, so I haven't replaced it in 30 years... UGH! Possibly adding a ceiling fan to a bedroom.
I need the old electrical panel replaced this year along with new windows. I will do the smaller windows myself but the large front and back windows are the old aluminum large jalousie style and they no longer open. Working on the things I already own and giving them a spruce up and deep cleaning instead of buying new.
Good for you being able to do some of the work yourself. I've heard that it's very expensive to move the electrical panel. Windows aren't cheap, either. Sorry, it sounds as though you're going to have an expensive year!
You must have prayed for me I have a new friend coming to spend Christmas with me so I won’t be alone god bless you,god is good and so are you thank you so much Dawn,Australian 🙏🥰❤️
I’m getting the guttering replaced on my house, which, being a high-set on a narrow block has been extremely challenging to get anyone to commit to doing. I have finally found someone willing to do it so have now paid the deposit but I have been told it probably won’t be done until late February or early March 2025. Also on electrical appliances needing upgrade pre work, I had to have an extra line run to the circuit board when I went from a ceramic cooktop to an induction cooktop. Previously the cooktop shared a circuit with the oven, but with 4 induction zones it would have overloaded the circuit. I could have got away with keeping the one circuit if I’d opted for a 3 zone cooktop as one of my friends did but didn’t want to lose the flexibility of an extra zone as I tend to meal prep a lot.
I think you kitty would love to curl up in your lap while you're on the computer! I don't know if we're going to do any major repairs next year. We'll need new windows sometime and new cabinet doors and drawer fronts in our kitchen. I'm not ready to do anything yet. It's good to make a list for repairs and to prioritize them. Great video. Love to all, Linda 💕
I own a home. It's 110 years old now and last updated in 1999, before I bought it. It had only had 4 owners and each one had done updates. Still, it needed A LOT done when I bought it. 40 year old carpets had to be removed, wood floors had to be refinished, some windows and doors had to be replaced, new electrical outlets had to be installed, basement waterproofing had to be done, I had an alarm system installed, the entire inside had to be painted including the basement because it looked like a dungeon, etc. Then, I had to buy all new rugs, drapes and blinds. Because the house needed so much done, it was an unbelievably low price. The house itself is extremely well made, sturdy...built like people don't build houses anymore. It has a lot and a half, all flat, in the mountains. Nobody has a flat yard here. I lucked out. It also has original stained glass windows. I love this house! When I first moved in, I made a list of the needs and a list of the wants. I had a very good job and income then, and had been saving to buy a house, so I had the money to do all these things, in my own frugal way. I waited for, researched, and/or negotiated the best prices for everything. (Oh, I forgot... I also put in a second bathroom when my brother was going to move in.) I got all the needs list completed right before my health failed. I haven't managed to get the wants done. Plus, more needs have come up over the years. I had to replace the water heater a few years ago, and I had to buy a new washing machine this year. Right now, I need the bathtub faucet replaced, light bulbs changed which are too high for me to reach (and carrying a ladder up from the basement is mission impossible). I need the kitchen counters replaced and a dishwasher I've already bought installed. I need to move a kitchen cabinet so the refrigerator fits better and I need a couple more cabinets installed. Then, the kitchen needs to be painted. Actually, the whole inside needs to be painted. The outside needs to be powered washed and so do all the sidewalks and patio. The separate garage needs to be torn down and rebuilt. I'm going to have the tub faucet replaced to have shower water come from the shower faucet instead of the bathtub faucet. I need to get a filter for the furnace and that's about it. The furnace filter will be first. Some of these things I only need because I need to sell the house. I still haven't been able to finish the cabin I'm moving to finished enough to live in, so I can't sell here until I do that. It's a long slow process, partly because I can't find anyone to do the work at the cabin and it's expensive. The ONLY way I've been able to do any of this since I got sick, is by living a no-spend life, so every penny is caught to do these things, and from some help from others. So, I plug on, with great thankfulness to God, and those who help. My Social Security has been increased by $40 a month, but my expenses still outweigh that. 2024 has been the only year in many when I didn't have the income to cover basic needs. We'll see what 2025 brings. Right now, it looks like I won't have enough, with God, all things are possible. I'm hopeful. 😊 Love to you, Money Mom!❤
Your home sounds lovely. You're right. They don't build like they used to. It's fortunate your brother moved in when he did. I hope your health has improved and you can have a Merry Christmas!
We have cracks in the cellar floor from the house settling. If we get a lot of rain, we do get some seepage. Not sure if having the cracks filled would fix it,mas it did in our old house, or just cause more cracks to form. But it’s at the bottom of the list as it rarely happens. My gas cooktop burners don’t all light right away. Its aggravating. There’s a $200 charge to walk in the door. They might or might not have parts as it’s almost 12 years old. Buying parts is additional. I can’t see spending $400 or so to fix it, given the age, and. That it’s well used as I cook all our meals. Either I will keep limping along with it, or get so frustrated one day that I will just go out and replace it.
I need a new stove. Only 2 burners work on mine...and being single, Ive been able to put it off (Just had to buy a new fridge last year when mine completely died). My hot water heater, furnace and A/C are in their 'Twilight' years by current expectations. I'm limping everything by as best I can... but it's going to be a Boatload of money to replace them at given minute now. Good info on electrical and plumbing updates! I'm so sorry you are having to deal with that on top of replacement 😢
I just moved into a new home in May and had to get a water softener and new blinds. In 2025 I'm planning to paint the house. I think after that im going to be done for awhile.
In 2024 we finally got our downstairs bath redone. New shower, flooring and paint. Light put in shower. Had money saved for two years and a contractor friend did it. Just replaced water heater. Close enough to 2025. In the new year would like my living room and hallways painted and ceiling fan replaced. Also all outlets replaced. We’ll see what happens
I would like to get a gas online water heater installed this year. That’s all I need to do because I’ve taken care of the electricity and the plumbing so I am meeting current codes.
Not sure what the shut off valve is? Plumbing or electricity? Are they saying they can’t shut off the water? As the homeowner, you may be able to plug it in since the issue is just that it “isn’t up to code”. I do like to keep my house maintained, but there are certain things that are a necessity due to safety or potential damage issues. I live in a new build so no plans to do anything except maybe some landscaping and deck sealing.
In the last few years we have had to replace the roof, fence,a/c, water heater, outside faucet, floors, tree removal, sprinkler repairs and last year we did windows and gutters. I would hope no repairs in 2025 but we probably need to repaint the outside. Btw we also had to bring out plumbing up to code when we repl6the water heater.
We have a kitty that is just a little bit bigger than yours gray Tabby super soft loves to play wants to play 24/7. I play with the string with her for about 15 to 20 minutes and then it's done for a while she's got to know what disappointment is LOL
There is a metal pan that should sit under your water heater. It prevents water leakage onto the floor if your water heater acts up. You should check the code requirements in your area. If it is inside the living space of the house or in a non-living space, such as the garage, but at the same floor level as the living space, a drip pan is required. Additionally, the Texas Plumbing Code requires water heaters to have proper drain pans and discharge lines. These parts protect your home from water damage due to leaks. Always keep the area around your water heater clear of anything that can catch fire to stay safe. P2801. 6.1 Pan Size and Drain. The pan shall be not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) deep and shall be of sufficient size and shape to receive dripping or condensate from the tank or water heater. The pan shall be drained by an indirect waste pipe of not less than 3/4 inch (19 mm) diameter.
Hello Dawn, Merry Christmas to your family. I have a quick question you have said in previous videos that you were a Christian why did your sign in your front yard say Xmas why did you take Christ out of the word Christmas?
We live in the 'bush' in Australia, 50 acres. Recently we have had summer wind storms which have played havock with the eucalyptus (gum) trees along our driveway. This has forced us to engage an arborist to clear a wider pathway along our powerline area. Daily rate, and booked for Jan 15. It's gonna knock our budget around, but we have it in the contingency account! The trees are HUGE and branches leaning over the powerlines are as thick as my legs and over 10m high.
Get him neutered NOW or you will have BIG BIG problems I learned the hard way it took TEN YEARS to fix the cat problem!!! Keep him indoors or give him to a rescue!!!
Al needs to shave and get a hair cut. I a 67 I cut are lawn trim the bushes around the house. I am also a cancer survivor. Al is capable of doing some work. Just sad.
I need a new tap for sink downstairs replacing and our sofa has electrical recliners and one has stopped working so I found a company that does repairs so I want them round in January , money money money I need a money tree in the garden 🪴
I am in Florida. I have a Eucalyptus tree whose branches were hanging over my home like that. I spoke with some neighbors and said I needed someone affordable to trim the tree back ahead of Hurricane Helene. A young Hispanic man came by and said he would do the work for around three-hundred dollars, which made me a bit skeptical because it was quite a bit of work. Come to find out he owns a tree trimming company and they were having a bit of a slump in work that week, so he had been asking around the neighborhood if anyone needed tree work done and one of the neighbors I spoke to sent him to my house. I like to put out feelers on the neighborhood grapevine sometimes, it has served me well over my lifetime. I did give the guy extra money as a bonus because he knocked the job out quick, he also cut up all of the branches and stacked them neatly for pickup at the curb.
It sounds like you got a great deal!
I've had a few things done that way, inexpensively. Letting tradespeople fit me in for non emergency stuff helps too.
Hold that baby kitty 24/7. He loves you ♥️
I'm 64 my husband is 78 and we're able to get our retirement home built cash 8 months ago. Thank God
That is awesome!
With the kitten get a cheap baby holder from thrift store or make your own and just carry him around in that. They love it as they are up at your level and your heart beat comfort them.
They have a way to tie a strip of fabric to carry one too and since he will most likely outgrow that behavior.
How sweet!
I am envious Dawn…my two cats hate to be held!!
I own my home. I have to replace my water tank.Mines only lasted me six years and four month. This will be my second water tank after six years. For yours to have lasted 16 years is awesome . It ‘s like they only make them to last for a short time now.
True
Dawn, ty for covering why it was important to you to bring your house up to code. I really do appreciate that. Again, thank you.
I'm glad you found it helpful!
Your snow family on the front lawn is SO ADORABLE!! Thank you for the smile!
Thanks for noticing!
There is an inexpensive extending branch trimmer that we got and it would work really well on those branches out front for you. We have to remove a beautiful bush at the corner of the house as well. I learned i can root it so I will do that and grow another somewhere else. Yours looks like a big boxwood- a nursery or builder might want to just come get it and replant it. I got two big evergreen bushes taken away.
Our big expense this coming year is TBD. Lots to choose from! Haha. I’d like new cupboards in this kitchen.
My cat is glued to me whenever I'm not at work. I just roll with it. He follows me everywhere and settles in whenever I sit down or lay down. I love it
Ahh
Awe, your Christmas snowmen are adorable!❤❤❤
Looking good, Dawn! I can see that awesome weight loss! ❤ Watch for hydrating and getting your proper vitamins. 😊 Lots of love sent!!!
Hello from Australia again Dawn, this year I need work done on my bathroom and it’s a priority. I would also like the motivation to get the paint brush out and do a few touch ups on the inside of my house. You are exactly right when you own a house there is always something that needs doing from the lawns to major works.
It is so good to hear from you again!
I love your kitties Dawn, and I wish you, your Family, and All in the comments Happy Holidays 🎄
Thank you! Merry Christmas to you too!
I had the same problem with electric hookups. Get it done now. It won't get any cheaper. Plus you'll have peace of mind.
We have a basket with a small fleece blanket for our cat, he loves it!
Merry Christmas 🎄
Hold kittty 24/7 ❤️
I agree
Love your snow family ❤
MERRY CHRISTMAS 🎅 🎄
Thank you! Merry Christmas to you too!
The house that I am still paying mortgage on I would love to get the basement wall fixed, the wooden floors redone, maybe a new paint job on the walls. The house I live in with my boyfriend needs a new roof, and the porch shored up. ♥️♥️The snow family ☃️☃️☃️❄️
Merry Christmas and God bless you and yours. Adventure on!!
Thank you, same to you!
So happy I don't own! If I owned this one, I can see the utility valves look the same as yours but we had no issues when we bought used older model washer. The bathroom faucets, hall toilet and master bath cabinet where a previous plumbing problem messed up the interior base and flooring need replacing. Old master shower could be updated. Trees need to be trimmed and one section of the back fence needs to be replaced. Interior DIY painting wasn't quite finished when we moved in so that would need to get done. Some of the exterior wood where they had a termite issue needs to be replaced, looks like they just painted over the existing. Not sure about the gas stove. Micro and refrigerator needs to be replaced. Front lawn needs to be resodded. No idea what the cost would be but I've estimated when I move, the landlord will have to spend around $10K (??) to attract either renters or buyers.
Money Mom, Snuggle with LITTLE Lord, and enjoy every minute! Merry Christmas, Paola in Palm Beach
Merry Christmas, Paola!
Pet the cute sweet kitten! As often as it wants:)
I know, he's adorable!
That's such a cute little house! All of our 50's-60's ranchers like it in Houston are just about totally gone now. Plumbing & electrical work for modern appliances can be a little tricky with them tho. Lord Tubbington just needs a little tough love that's all, I've got 5 I look after. I'll make a video on how I handled the orange cat of ours who's the same way.
It sounds like you have your hands full with your cats!
What do you do with a kitty that wants to be held 24/7? You hold him 24/7!
I agree
Merry 🎄 Christmas dawn
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas Dawn. I would like to get my electrical panel updated to current code in order to protect my appliances and prevent fire. I would also like to update my landscaping for low maintenance.
That sounds like a great plan!
What do you do with a kitten that loves to be held 24/7? You hold him 24/7! ❤😂
My husband is out changing a client's water heater this morning. It was leaking bad! 😮
Merry Christmas Eve Eve, everyone! 🎄🎁❤️
Merry Christmas Eve eve! 🎅🎄🎅
@3TXSisters 💖💕💖 Same to you Linda!
-Lucy
That is awesome!
My stove has seen better days, but it still works, painting needs to be done on the outside of the house, will have to wait till spring, I need some tree stumps removed, and a tree trimmed, will do all this myself, with the help of my son. Merry Christmas.😊🌲☕🎉💕
That’s great you can do it yourself!
Just like you, Money Mom, I have learned the hard way, that it is always good to set money aside monthly for home and car maintenance; and to plan ahead for the important stuff. This approach keeps down the very real expenses of caring for what we own; and, home maintenance does not get so behind, that I cannot financially bring it right. Performing annual tasks is the way to go - much less stress, and limits the possibility of unexpected emergencies on the home front. * I had to remove a tree this month - 30' tall, $2K for tree removal, haul away, and stump grinding. * 2025 is almost here. I am doing my own fence work (sealing and picket replacement), and I do my own yard work - mowing, bush trimming, planting, etc. That allows me to save money for other things. As long as I am able to do my work (I am not a speedy lawn person, LOL), I will do it. It is good for the body as well as the budget. * Inside - I repaint one room a year. This way I avoid having an entire house that hasn't been painted for 10+ years. The ceilings all count as one room, that way the ceiling paint matches in the open floor plan area, which comprises "three" rooms - kitchen, dining, and living area. Painting myself (thank you RUclips!), saves me thousands. With the right equipment, and training from RUclips, there is not much ladder climbing, which is always a great thing. * The kitchen, and bathroom cabinets are getting attention (finally) this year. I am going to try using the Antique Walnut General Finishes Oil stain on the golden oak cabinets - I will let you know how that turns out. Prep is 90% of the job - there is no way to hurry thorough cleaning, and thorough surface preparation. So, prep is where I will focus my effort, one frame, one cabinet door at a time (I am not in a hurry). I won't go forward until I know I am really ready to stain the cabinets. No point doing a bad job, because when that happens, you have to undo the problem, before you do it right. That is more than double the work, compared to doing the prep and painting/staining right the first time. Ask me how I know! (I know because I failed to do a sample spot with paint on something I wanted to touch up - and the paint all wrinkled. That was UGLY! as well as extremely time consuming. Then, to add insult to injury, It always seems to rain when one is trying to undo a failed paint project. That really slows down drying time. * That's how I know. Learn from my mistake. This time, I will prep an area on the inside of a cabinet door, apply the General Finish Oil Stain and see what happens. If the finish wrinkles - well, at least it is confined to one area, and I know I will have to find a different product to do the cabinets. * I love being in charge of what happens on the home front. Over time, home maintenance in this house (28 year old house), has averaged $2K a year (total divided by years lived here). It would probably have been less, but the previous owner quit maintaining the house six years before I bought it, and lots of things had gone unattended that I had to repair, when I purchased the house. * Thankfully, all of those things were taken care of prior to the pandemic - because it is now MUCH MORE expensive, and some things I took care of five plus years ago, I could not afford to do today (like retiling the house - just the tile cost has more than doubled). That is important to keep in mind - things may be less expensive now than they will be later.
My brother’s house had those same bushes. Their roots are tough !!! One of my nephews tried pulling it up with his truck. After loosening up the soil and cutting around the roots, he still managed to rip off his bumper. Best leave it to the pros unless you’ve got all the equipment 😮
I love that you're taking such a proactive approach to home maintenance!
@@cjhoward409Oh, no! Your poor nephew. No good deed goes unpunished.
Sounds as though you've done a lot to the house. I hope you're able to do everything on your list.
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Merry Christmas, Dawn and family. I hope you have a nice holiday. I'll be working. I noticed what appears to be a small hole on the right side of the drywall by your shower. I'd patch that soon so moisture doesn't make it work. Easy fix. Just a suggestion.
Thank you! I will look into that
I am planning to have my living room painted by a professional painter including painting the timber windows which are currently stained. It is the cheapest way to really bring a home up to date I think. I have had my main bedroom painted including the timber windows and I'm very happy with it. Also new blinds on the windows and new curtains. They're 25 years old! So far I have paid deposits on the blinds and curtains to be made. I can't get a painter until the first week in March but I'm happy to wait because I'll have the cash to pay him. I am doing one feature wall and the rest will be a neutral colour. I think your plans are very sensible. Making sure your electricity is up to code and that trees are not going to do damage is good preventative maintenance.
That's a great plan!
I need to replace the kitchen faucet. It has a small hole and leaks. My back deck stairs are rotten and need to be replaced. Otherwise I cant go out the back door to hang my clothes. The windows are cracked and need to be replaced however the window sill is rotting so i need to have that fixed before I can replace the windows. The trees need to be trimmed and there are parts of the floor that feel like they are a tad bit lower than the rest of the floor. Also I think my toilet needs a new part. 😅
Shower doors are a pain to clean.
As long as the floor around the toilet isnt soft your most likely right about the water coming from the shower.
We plan on planting a few more trees, expanding the garden furthet, fencing the back half.
2 of our collies are very old. We have been discussing getting a pup. Our oldest girl has some younger brothers who are rather... active. The possibility of gettng a niece or grand niece of hers is tempting. Our girl had 2 boys. One was beautiful but disabled. The other has a disqualifying trait. Both were neutered. Her younger sibs are around 7 so... its getting to now or never time...
Precious little kitty!! ❤
Sounds like you are staying on top of everything! 🎉
We will be moving back to Michigan from NC in 2025. We may need new carpet but will check with a realtor. Need to paint and do touch up work.
Good luck with the move!
Money Mom in my experience, when it comes to valves, please be careful on what they replace them with! Valves sometimes get replaced with a plastic valve which breaks easier. If you can, choose metal valves, they are a little more expensive but they will last waaaayyyy longer than plastic. For your shrubs, the ones in the front look small and young so can likely be replanted if you wanted to bring them away from the house (if you live in a fire zone, they might be considered a hazard). I had to learn the hard way that the taller and older ones mess up the foundation and the French drain (if there is one, legally required here as it prevents water from pooling around the foundation). Another great list of great projects Money Mom, sounds fun!!!😅Cheering you on every step of the way!!!💕
I will keep that in mind when I'm doing these home repairs!
Merry Christmas Eve Dawn, Al & Everyone.✨️🎄🎁✨️If you had some long handle trimmers, you could trim the branches away from the front of your beautiful home. Your furture son in law may volunteer!🎅☃️☃️☃️ 🤶
Also an electric saw will cut down that bush! Trim from the sides, to the middle. Once, slim enough, cut in half. Keep sawing till removed! 🌳
My sun porch will need painting, and pressure wash the driveway! Dawn, if your kitty loves to be held, get him a soft stuffed animal his size, ball of knitting yarn and keep hugging him! ✨️😺🐾✨️😇✨️⭐️
Thank you for the tips!
Merry Christmas to you and your lovely family! I do understand about maintaining a home!!!Good luck !!
Merry Christmas to you too!
We just had all new siding, soffit, fascia and gutters installed. Our next project for 2025 will be getting a new shower, water heater and flooring in our basement bath. The plumbers actually came this morning...bracing myself for the estimate!
I wish you the best
The tree does not look huge to me, but there is a problem with proximity to the roof. In case of branches just slightly rub the shingles, they can perforate/damage and you will have a leak in the roof
I agree
Dawn, we live in the money pit too. Our goals are: dumpster for the ruthless, heartless, gigantic purge of crap. + We are going to concert to gas instead of oil. Really need to sock it away..and my dining room ceiling is peeling and falling off to the floor. It needs to be done by a professional. So no vacation for us.
It’s always a challenge to balance saving and home repairs.
We have BIG goals for 2025. Getting my floors tiled. That will be in March. Building our garage later this Spring to start that and maybe 2025/26 concreting the gravel driveway. Those are the biggest expenses. We also have to finish our deck around the pool in the back yard. (Already have all the lumber) and my husband is going to build a corner linen closet in our bathroom. Our house we started building ourselves 10 years ago, so everything is fairly new except my washer and dryer which are 26 years old.
Need to know what kind of washer and dryer you have!
Sounds like you have a very full year ahead of you!
What we would like to do next year- for sure a water heater. It’s fine right now but getting close to needing replacement. Want to do it before it floods.
Next project is to pull out our remaining carpet & put in wood flooring. Want the whole house to be uniform.
Didn’t know you have a kitten. We recently rescued a cat (2 years old). First time cat owners. We’ve always had dogs. It’s been a year since our last dog passed away. It was time to rescue another pet. We are loving it!
I love animals
Hello All, Merry Christmas Eve, Eve🤶I need to paint inside my house it’s been over 20 yrs. Love you❤
Magic eraser works wonders on white painted surfaces like around light switches and door trims
Merry Christmas to you too!
Thank you
We do own our home. 2025 we are putting in a couple of new windows and revamping our main bathroom. We already have the windows. We got them from the Habitat Restore, Im now looking for a freestanding tub and a massive vanity.
Sounds like a great project!
Gutter Guards! I can no longer go up and clean them out, and it’s $250 every 3 months to have someone come clean them. So I’d rather get the gutter guards and spray them off every 3 months than continue paying to have them cleaned ❤
Fantastic
I need to replace my hanging dining room light fixture. I would also like new carpeting in my bedroom, big room, alot of heavy furniture to be moved, so I haven't replaced it in 30 years... UGH! Possibly adding a ceiling fan to a bedroom.
It is always a good idea to make a list of those types of things!
I need the old electrical panel replaced this year along with new windows. I will do the smaller windows myself but the large front and back windows are the old aluminum large jalousie style and they no longer open. Working on the things I already own and giving them a spruce up and deep cleaning instead of buying new.
Windows are expensive! It's nice that you're able to do some on your own! 🙂👍 Happy Holidays!
Good for you being able to do some of the work yourself. I've heard that it's very expensive to move the electrical panel. Windows aren't cheap, either. Sorry, it sounds as though you're going to have an expensive year!
Sounds great!
You must have prayed for me I have a new friend coming to spend Christmas with me so I won’t be alone god bless you,god is good and so are you thank you so much Dawn,Australian 🙏🥰❤️
I’m so glad! That’s awesome!
I’m getting the guttering replaced on my house, which, being a high-set on a narrow block has been extremely challenging to get anyone to commit to doing. I have finally found someone willing to do it so have now paid the deposit but I have been told it probably won’t be done until late February or early March 2025. Also on electrical appliances needing upgrade pre work, I had to have an extra line run to the circuit board when I went from a ceramic cooktop to an induction cooktop. Previously the cooktop shared a circuit with the oven, but with 4 induction zones it would have overloaded the circuit. I could have got away with keeping the one circuit if I’d opted for a 3 zone cooktop as one of my friends did but didn’t want to lose the flexibility of an extra zone as I tend to meal prep a lot.
I think you kitty would love to curl up in your lap while you're on the computer! I don't know if we're going to do any major repairs next year. We'll need new windows sometime and new cabinet doors and drawer fronts in our kitchen. I'm not ready to do anything yet. It's good to make a list for repairs and to prioritize them. Great video. Love to all, Linda 💕
I think so too! It's a good idea to list out repairs. The kitty is sweet
I own a home. It's 110 years old now and last updated in 1999, before I bought it. It had only had 4 owners and each one had done updates. Still, it needed A LOT done when I bought it. 40 year old carpets had to be removed, wood floors had to be refinished, some windows and doors had to be replaced, new electrical outlets had to be installed, basement waterproofing had to be done, I had an alarm system installed, the entire inside had to be painted including the basement because it looked like a dungeon, etc. Then, I had to buy all new rugs, drapes and blinds. Because the house needed so much done, it was an unbelievably low price. The house itself is extremely well made, sturdy...built like people don't build houses anymore. It has a lot and a half, all flat, in the mountains. Nobody has a flat yard here. I lucked out. It also has original stained glass windows. I love this house!
When I first moved in, I made a list of the needs and a list of the wants. I had a very good job and income then, and had been saving to buy a house, so I had the money to do all these things, in my own frugal way. I waited for, researched, and/or negotiated the best prices for everything. (Oh, I forgot... I also put in a second bathroom when my brother was going to move in.) I got all the needs list completed right before my health failed. I haven't managed to get the wants done. Plus, more needs have come up over the years. I had to replace the water heater a few years ago, and I had to buy a new washing machine this year.
Right now, I need the bathtub faucet replaced, light bulbs changed which are too high for me to reach (and carrying a ladder up from the basement is mission impossible). I need the kitchen counters replaced and a dishwasher I've already bought installed. I need to move a kitchen cabinet so the refrigerator fits better and I need a couple more cabinets installed. Then, the kitchen needs to be painted. Actually, the whole inside needs to be painted. The outside needs to be powered washed and so do all the sidewalks and patio. The separate garage needs to be torn down and rebuilt. I'm going to have the tub faucet replaced to have shower water come from the shower faucet instead of the bathtub faucet. I need to get a filter for the furnace and that's about it. The furnace filter will be first.
Some of these things I only need because I need to sell the house. I still haven't been able to finish the cabin I'm moving to finished enough to live in, so I can't sell here until I do that. It's a long slow process, partly because I can't find anyone to do the work at the cabin and it's expensive. The ONLY way I've been able to do any of this since I got sick, is by living a no-spend life, so every penny is caught to do these things, and from some help from others. So, I plug on, with great thankfulness to God, and those who help. My Social Security has been increased by $40 a month, but my expenses still outweigh that. 2024 has been the only year in many when I didn't have the income to cover basic needs. We'll see what 2025 brings. Right now, it looks like I won't have enough, with God, all things are possible. I'm hopeful. 😊
Love to you, Money Mom!❤
Your home sounds lovely. You're right. They don't build like they used to. It's fortunate your brother moved in when he did. I hope your health has improved and you can have a Merry Christmas!
Love you too
Hi Dawn I dont own a home. But I look forward to the day when I build my own home as God promise us in the Bible book of Isaiah 65:21-23....😊😊😊😅😅😅
I felt I was not good enough to be a subscriber because you're much more upper class than myself.Very nice Lady tho...🇨🇦🙂
I appreciate your kind words. I'm just a regular person trying to navigate life!
We have cracks in the cellar floor from the house settling. If we get a lot of rain, we do get some seepage. Not sure if having the cracks filled would fix it,mas it did in our old house, or just cause more cracks to form. But it’s at the bottom of the list as it rarely happens. My gas cooktop burners don’t all light right away. Its aggravating. There’s a $200 charge to walk in the door. They might or might not have parts as it’s almost 12 years old. Buying parts is additional. I can’t see spending $400 or so to fix it, given the age, and. That it’s well used as I cook all our meals. Either I will keep limping along with it, or get so frustrated one day that I will just go out and replace it.
My two cents worth is to limp along with the stove. The burners still work, and there's no safety issue, so save your money until they don't work.
Best wishes
I need a new stove. Only 2 burners work on mine...and being single, Ive been able to put it off (Just had to buy a new fridge last year when mine completely died).
My hot water heater, furnace and A/C are in their 'Twilight' years by current expectations. I'm limping everything by as best I can... but it's going to be a Boatload of money to replace them at given minute now.
Good info on electrical and plumbing updates! I'm so sorry you are having to deal with that on top of replacement 😢
It is tough when things all happen at once.
I just moved into a new home in May and had to get a water softener and new blinds. In 2025 I'm planning to paint the house. I think after that im going to be done for awhile.
Congratulations
What do I do with a kitty that loves to be held 24/7? I hold that kitty 24/7 or as much as I can.
In 2024 we finally got our downstairs bath redone. New shower, flooring and paint. Light put in shower. Had money saved for two years and a contractor friend did it. Just replaced water heater. Close enough to 2025. In the new year would like my living room and hallways painted and ceiling fan replaced. Also all outlets replaced. We’ll see what happens
Wonderful news
Your stove is beautiful
I appreciate that!
Love your yard decorations!
Thank you! I love yard decorations too!
We need new windows . I would like to replace the back deck, but I’m going to have to settle for a nice paint job on the back deck.
I understand the feeling of having to prioritize!
Wish we lived closer! Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas to you too! That would be fun
Silly home repairs shame on them you are such an amazing beautiful lady and we love you
Thank you
You hold and love him😊
I would like to get a gas online water heater installed this year. That’s all I need to do because I’ve taken care of the electricity and the plumbing so I am meeting current codes.
Sounds like you have a solid plan!
I didn't know you got a kitten 🙂 How adorable!
He’s the newest member of the family!
Not sure what the shut off valve is? Plumbing or electricity? Are they saying they can’t shut off the water? As the homeowner, you may be able to plug it in since the issue is just that it “isn’t up to code”. I do like to keep my house maintained, but there are certain things that are a necessity due to safety or potential damage issues. I live in a new build so no plans to do anything except maybe some landscaping and deck sealing.
It is electric
Hold them 24/7 of course.
One of my cats was super huggy and just hold him when I can
In the last few years we have
had to replace the roof, fence,a/c, water heater, outside faucet, floors, tree removal, sprinkler repairs and last year we did windows and gutters. I would hope no repairs in 2025 but we probably need to repaint the outside. Btw we also had to bring out plumbing up to code when we repl6the water heater.
It sounds like you've had your hands full!
Love him he will love you unconditionally
❤❤❤❤❤❤
I have some front porch pillars that will need attention soon.
My house is only 12 years old. We repainted the entire house 2 years ago. In 2025 the only thing we need to replace is the fan motor in the AC.
We have a kitty that is just a little bit bigger than yours gray Tabby super soft loves to play wants to play 24/7. I play with the string with her for about 15 to 20 minutes and then it's done for a while she's got to know what disappointment is LOL
How fun
There is a metal pan that should sit under your water heater. It prevents water leakage onto the floor if your water heater acts up. You should check the code requirements in your area.
If it is inside the living space of the house or in a non-living space, such as the garage, but at the same floor level as the living space, a drip pan is required.
Additionally, the Texas Plumbing Code requires water heaters to have proper drain pans and discharge lines. These parts protect your home from water damage due to leaks. Always keep the area around your water heater clear of anything that can catch fire to stay safe.
P2801. 6.1 Pan Size and Drain. The pan shall be not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) deep and shall be of sufficient size and shape to receive dripping or condensate from the tank or water heater. The pan shall be drained by an indirect waste pipe of not less than 3/4 inch (19 mm) diameter.
That’s good to know.
OMG…..hold him!!!
Hold the kitty as much as you can.
Ahh
We need new doors. The door jambs are broken and they don’t shut right. We’ve needed them for a bit
I'm sure that's irritating!
You could probably just have them planed ? Sometimes when houses “settle”, putting in new doors doesn’t fix the problem.
@ no. The doors are broken from being slammed over the years by kids. Tney need to be replaced
Get the electrical work done
Hello Dawn, Merry Christmas to your family. I have a quick question you have said in previous videos that you were a Christian why did your sign in your front yard say Xmas why did you take Christ out of the word Christmas?
It is Greek
Lord Tubbington= Love Muffin
We live in the 'bush' in Australia, 50 acres. Recently we have had summer wind storms which have played havock with the eucalyptus (gum) trees along our driveway. This has forced us to engage an arborist to clear a wider pathway along our powerline area. Daily rate, and booked for Jan 15. It's gonna knock our budget around, but we have it in the contingency account! The trees are HUGE and branches leaning over the powerlines are as thick as my legs and over 10m high.
How scary
Get him neutered NOW or you will have BIG BIG problems I learned the hard way it took TEN YEARS to fix the cat problem!!! Keep him indoors or give him to a rescue!!!
Remove the tree before it falls on your house
Not necessarily! The branches are not large. Trim is fine! It takes a long time to grow a tree, and they add to the value of your home.❤
Al needs to shave and get a hair cut. I a 67 I cut are lawn trim the bushes around the house. I am also a cancer survivor. Al is capable of doing some work. Just sad.
So true
My goodness that's an incredibly judgemental & bossy comment. Please leave the man alone.
I need a new tap for sink downstairs replacing and our sofa has electrical recliners and one has stopped working so I found a company that does repairs so I want them round in January , money money money I need a money tree in the garden 🪴