January 2024

ISSUE 27

News Bites

COCLT Homes Sold in 2023

The COCLT sold a total of 28 homes in 2023. In 2022, we sold a total of 17 homes. Overall, we reached 88 total homes sold since the program started in 2019. We look forward to building more homes in 2024 and beyond.

Spring Cleanup

A Spring Cleanup is being planned for 2024. In 2022 we cleaned up in the Near East, and last year we cleaned up the South Side of Columbus. We are excited to announce the area for 2024 is Franklinton. Email and let us know if you are interested in participating!

Welcome Home

Please join COCLT in welcoming homeowners who have recently closed

on their new homes.

Recycling Christmas Trees and other Holiday Items

Now that the holiday season has ended, your household may still have a Christmas tree and other decorations in your home. Properly disposing of the Christmas tree and other unwanted items can be a hassle if you are not sure where or how to start the process. Each local area has resources for residents to recycle larger items. Recycling not only helps your family but improves the environment by reducing waste. Listed below are some local area links for recycling your tree and other items.

Another resource to help with ways to reduce waste can be found HERE.

New Year, New Coverages

As you and your family spend more time in your home, you may have purchased additional items such as a TV, jewelry, or clothing. The COCLT recommends speaking with your homeowner insurance representative once a year to make sure you have adequate Insurance coverage for your home and personal belongings.

Property Value Increases.

Additionally, with the continued increase in property values, you want to be sure you have enough dwelling coverage in case of loss or damage to your home or other items. If you have made improvements since you purchased your home, such as a fence, shed, or patio area, be sure to inform your insurance company. This will safeguard your home from any uncovered insurance claims.

What is Dwelling Coverage?

Dwelling coverage is the cost to re-build your home's structure. It does not cover the contents of your home. It is suggested that you talk with your homeowner insurance company to see if you have enough coverage to re-build your home at today's prices.

Check out this LINK to find out more about insurance and dwelling coverage.

Homeowner Tips

Winter Pests

During the winter months there are times when unwanted pests may try to invade your home. Always seek professional assistance if you think you may have an infestation. Here are some common pests often found in the winter to look out for in and around your home.

Ants

Ants eat both plant and meat debris and may be attracted to the interior of a home by substances that are edible and provide a good energy source. Keep your countertops and floors clear from food.

Beetles

Maintain your yard and keep it clear of habitats friendly to overwintering beetles.

Brown Recluse Spider

Store seldom used items in sealed plastic containers. Seal cracks and holes in the exterior of your home to keep them from coming inside.

Home Resolutions

A new year brings a fresh start to your journey as a homeowner. Especially in your first few years, you learn to navigate many different parts of what makes a house run well and the resources necessary to maintaining that security of use. Listed below are some helpful things to consider:

Give your new things a proper home. You may purchase or receive new items for your home and now is the time to find a place to put them as part of your home décor or supplies.

Rearrange your furniture for efficiency and comfort. Having your furniture arranged in a way that best compliments your home living.

Prepare for emergencies. Maintain an inventory of needed household emergency supplies and a safe place for your family to meet if there is a fire or other natural disaster.

Winter Blues Cleaning Ideas

Wintertime frequently brings about more time in the home due to less daylight hours. To put this time to good use, here are a few cleaning activities to keep you and your family engaged and your home smelling fresh.

Create a home cleaning routine that best suits your family's current needs and schedule.

Incorporate low maintenance, long-lasting, and durable materials and décor that will save money and create a great atmosphere.

Clean out your cupboards and get rid of any expired food items. This will allow you to avoid over buying the same product.

Improve indoor air quality by keeping a regular schedule to change furnace filters and dust on a weekly basis.

Community Resource

"Homeownership isn't a destination, it's a journey. And that journey doesn't end when you get the keys to your new home. To unlock the full power of homeownership, it must be accessible, sustainable, and transferable to the next generation." Bloom

CONVERGENCE Columbus has launched a new community resource - Bloom - that provides a wealth of housing information from mortgage resources to estate planning to tax help. CONVERGENCE Columbus brings together leaders from across our community to drive impactful and sustainable homeownership solutions by closing gaps in trust, information, resources, and tools.

To find out more information, check out this LINK.