Your Quarterly Guide to Homeownership Success
Building More Than Homes, Building a Community
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Welcome to the latest edition of Habitat Homefront News, a newsletter brought to you by the Richmond Metropolitan Habitat for Humanity Homeowner Council!
Last year, we established the Homeowner Council to empower homeowners with the resources and educational tools they need. Get ready for a helpful maintenance manual, engaging online tutorials, and even more valuable resources coming your way!
We are seeking dedicated homeowners to join our council. Your involvement helps with program planning, developing education, and fostering a strong sense of community.
| | | Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist | |
This section outlines essential maintenance tasks to tackle during each season
to ensure the longevity and comfort of your living space.
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Summer Home Refresh
As temperatures rise, there's no time like the present to start your summer home maintenance projects. Dedicate time to these task to ensure your home remains in optimal condition, potentially avoiding costly repairs in the future. We have compiled a list of tasks to help you enjoy your home, both inside and out.
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Change Air Filters: Clean filters are essential for your HVAC unit to operate at peak efficiency, keeping clean air circulating throughout your home, extending the lifespan of your equipment, reducing energy consumption, and potentially lowering utility bills. Check our ReStores for deals on low-cost filters.
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Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure both your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector are functioning properly. Test them, check batteries, and replace if necessary. Your local fire department may be able to install smoke detectors free of charge. Richmond 804-646-1526, Chesterfield 804-748-1426, Henrico 804-501-4900
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Wash Windows and Replace Window Screens: Remove your window screens and gently scrub them with hot, soapy water, or replace if necessary. Learn how to remove your window screen, or learn how to repair your window screens.
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Prevent Bug Breeding Grounds: A quick spritz of outdoor bug spray around the perimeter of your house and yard will keep bugs at bay. Empty outside containers that hold water to prevent breeding grounds for mosquito eggs. Plant lavender, rosemary, marigolds, citronella geraniums, and lemongrass to help repel mosquitoes.
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Reverse Ceiling Fans: Reverse the direction of your ceiling fan during the summer so that it spins counter-clockwise. This pushes the air straight down, creating a nice breeze. Check out this video for a demonstration on how to reverse your fan.
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Yard Upkeep: During the summer, it is recommended that you cut your grass at least once a week. Remove dead parts from trees and plants, and do some weeding. Laying mulch in your flower beds will help keep weeds away and let your plants retain moisture. Prevent weeds by treating your yard with a weed preventer.
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Seasonal Maintenance Spotlight:
Curb Appeal - Ideas for Beautifying Your Space
Curb appeal —the first impression your house makes from the street —is a big deal. Whether you're selling your home or keeping it, curb appeal makes your place so much nicer. Let's take a look at how you can create a comfortable outdoor space and explore ways to enhance your curb appeal.
| | | This section connects homeowners to local resources in the community. | | |
The Toolbank is a nonprofit organization that offers hands-on workshops to help homeowners develop skills and gain confidence in caring for their homes. They offer a range of classes from regular home maintenance to learning how to use power tools. If you would like to register for one of their upcoming workshops, please click the link to get signed up. The classes offer Pay What You Can pricing, allowing you to choose a ticket price that suits your financial means.
The ToolBank is currently developing a lending program for individuals. They'd like to hear what tools you'll need as a homeowner. Please take a moment to complete their Survey.
| | | Financial Well-Being Insights | | Discover practical advice on creating a sustainable financial plan while maintaining your quality of life. With these tools, we aim to inspire financial stability and resilience. | | |
Summer Savings
When summer arrives, it often brings to mind barbecues, vibrant festivals, and carefree days by the pool. However, this season can also lead to increased expenses, whether from exciting trips or additional childcare costs. But don't worry—summer can still be enjoyable without stretching your budget. Discover these savvy budgeting tips to save money while creating unforgettable summer memories. Click the link to learn more about summer savings.
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Homeowner Insurance
Shop for homeowners’ insurance annually to ensure you're getting the best coverage at the most affordable rate. Since your mortgage is escrowed and serviced by Virginia Housing, changes in your insurance premium directly affect your monthly payment. The best time to switch insurance is before your policy renews (typically 30 to 60 days prior) so the new premium can be sent to your loan servicer in a timely manner. Your monthly mortgage payment can change each year due to real estate taxes and insurance costs, which are paid from your escrow account.
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See a diverse selection of activities in the Richmond area for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens. This ensures that families can easily find enjoyable and appropriate options for everyone.
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Free Splash Pads - Eastern Recreation Center, Castle Point Park, Short Pump Park, Stony Point Fashion Park, and Twin Hickory Park.
Pack a towel, snacks, and a change of clothes, and you’ve got a morning full of fun.
Front Lawn Fun Tuesdays @ 10 am
Join VMHC Educators to play a variety of games like lawn bowling, balls & cups, and even stick horse races. This event is free recommended for elementary and middle school students.
Themed Thursdays Thursdays @ 10:30 am
Join VMHC Educators from 10:30 to 11:30 on select Thursdays in June, July, and August as they facilitate a variety of 18th-century themed crafts, including tri-corner hats, punched tin designs, tea-stained paper, and more!
Red, White, and Lights 2025 July 4th @ 4 pm
Celebrate Independence in Style at Red, White & Lights. This family-friendly event promises an evening of fun, music, food, and history, with a dazzling laser light show finale.
Fourth of July Celebration July 4th @ 5:30 pm
As part of the 67th annual Festival of Arts, the City’s Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Facilities will host a Fourth of July celebration at Dogwood Dell.
Chesterfield Fireworks Show July 4th @ 4 pm
The Chesterfield Fireworks Show will be held at the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds and is a free event open to all ages. Gates open at 5 pm, and fireworks will begin at dusk. Bring a chair or picnic blanket to set up and enjoy the music.
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Caterpillar Club July 14 @10 am
Each week, explore the natural world through a variety of seasonally appropriate, hands-on activities at Pocahontas State Park. Geared towards early childhood (3-5 years old), but all are welcome and encouraged to participate.
Board Game Night July 14th @ 6 pm
Play a variety of classic and modern board games at the Beulah Recreation Center, where games and playing space are provided.
Family Game Night July 19 @ 5:30 pm
Play old favorites, learn a new game, or bring one to share!
Children's Entrepreneur Market at Jazz Fountain Lake July 27 @ 4 pm
Join in for a fun-filled event where kids showcase their creative products and services. From handmade crafts to tasty treats, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Inaugural Celebration of Reading August 16 @10 am
This event will allow ages 0-13 to visit educational vendors, discuss books, enjoy food and drinks, and take home a complimentary book.
Culturefest Fridays with Culture Encounters August 1 @ 3:30 pm
Join the Children's Museum of Richmond every first Friday for a monthly cultural celebration for the entire family. Immerse yourself in diverse global cultures through live performances, culinary delights, and a variety of arts and crafts.
| | Richmond Metropolitan Habitat Corner | | Discover the latest updates and information regarding Richmond Habitat and our ReStores. | |
Meet our CEO
Dave Neary joined Richmond Metropolitan Habitat for Humanity as CEO in February 2025! Learn more about this Habitat enthusiast here.
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Restore Highlights
Visit our ReStores for fantastic finds to enhance your home's curb appeal with outdoor decor! Shop online by visiting the ReStore website or shop our eBay Store.
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Northside Location:
1901 Roane St,
Richmond, VA 23222
Chesterfield Location:
1201 Mall Dr,
Richmond, VA 23235
| | Check here for exciting events, news, and initiatives! | | |
For any upcoming event that is open to the public, you can see it on our website, share it, and add it to your calendar. Don't forget to share our events with your friends and family!
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