Any homeowner will tell you that owning and maintaining a home is both expansive and time consuming. Homeowners can reasonably expect to spend up to three percent of the home’s value on annual home improvements. Luckily, there are ways to lower these costs.

Increase your home’s energy efficiency by adding weather stripping to your doors and windows. Weather stripping allows your cooling and heating unit to operate more efficiently by locking in cool and hot air. You won’t experience drafts on cool, breezy nights, either.

Plastic 2-liter bottles are an excellent kitchen storage option. They are transparent, and a good way to store things like flour, baking soda and sugar. You can store these on a shelf or in the freezer or fridge. Simply take of the top and pour it when you need it.

Prior to going to the home improvement store, create a list of what you are