Newly built homes rarely require the level of vigilance and extensive repairs that older homes demand, but homeowners still need to stay on top of tasks to keep their home in excellent condition. Thankfully, there are apps to easily organize the information about your home’s systems and appliances, including any maintenance schedules, and to keep you on track with routine reminders and alerts. Instead of sifting through a box of paperwork when your garbage disposal needs a tweak, you can turn to an app to pinpoint the model number and quickly access the user manual. Apps can help you find service professionals and remind you to complete routine chores.
Among the array of apps for home management and maintenance, these 10 stand out for their usefulness:
1. Centriq
Centriq is a subscription-based app that helps homeowners and property managers organize information about their belongings. Users can take photos of products and upload them to the app, which then stores information such as model numbers, serial numbers, user manuals, receipts, and more. This information can be useful for insurance purposes, warranty claims, and repair history. Centriq also allows users to create notes about installation dates, costs, and other details. Centriq offers both a free subscription and a deluxe subscription per property for $32.
2. Househappy
Househappy offers a single place for home maintenance and management at your fingertips. Imagine being able to schedule repairs, home maintenance, and renovations with ease. The customized home service reminders and exclusive deals allow you to save time and money. The app includes a concierge service you can contact by text, email, chat or phone call with questions or to request services from vetted contractors if you need help maintaining or repairing something in your home. Sign up for a free account with opportunities to purchase warranty service and more.
3. HomeZada
HomeZada is an all-in-one home management app that helps you organize, track, and manage various aspects of homeownership. From home maintenance schedules and project tracking to inventory management and budgeting tools, HomeZada keeps everything in one place, making it easier to stay on top of tasks and expenses. Enjoy the free essential version or pay $79 a year for the premium version.
4. Sortly
The Sortly app provides a streamlined home inventory system complete with photos, serial numbers, receipts and warranties. The system can also be set up to send reminders for items you’ve loaned to someone and when a warranty expires. The information is valuable for insurance purposes as well as home maintenance. In addition, the app allows you to set up information for multiple properties in case you own an investment or vacation home. Start a free 14-day trial with options for household and business use.
5.TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is a handy app that connects you with local professionals who can help you with various home-related tasks, such as cleaning, repairs, assembly, and more. Whether you need help mounting a TV, assembling furniture, or fixing a leaky faucet, TaskRabbit makes it easy to find reliable help when you need it. TaskRabbit allows you to choose by price, skills, and review. Schedule, pay, tip, and review in one easy spot.
6. Vivint
Vivint is a home security and automation app that allows you to monitor and control your home’s security system, smart locks, cameras, and other connected devices remotely. With Vivint, you can arm and disarm your security system, receive real-time alerts, and check in on your home from anywhere, giving you peace of mind when you’re away. With varied systems and subscriptions, it is possible to monitor your home for as little as $1 per day.
7. GreenPal
Described as “Uber for lawn care,” GreenPal makes it easy to find, schedule and pay for lawn mowing for your new home. You can use the app to list your lawn and get next-day lawn service from local professionals. Service providers bid on your project and get paid through the app, so homeowners don’t have to be on the property while their yard gets mowed.
8. HomeAdvisor
HomeAdvisor is a home services app that helps you find and hire trusted professionals for home improvement projects, repairs, and maintenance tasks. Whether you need a plumber, electrician, roofer, or landscaper, HomeAdvisor makes it easy to compare quotes, read reviews, and hire the right person for the job.
9. Houzz
Houzz is a home design and remodeling app that provides inspiration, ideas, and resources for home improvement projects. From browsing millions of photos for design inspiration to finding local professionals and products for your projects, Houzz is a one-stop shop for all things home design and renovation.
10. MagicPlan
MagicPlan is an innovative app that allows you to create floor plans and 3D models of your home using just your smartphone or tablet. Simply walk around your home, and MagicPlan will measure rooms, create floor plans, and generate interactive 3D models, making it easy to visualize and plan home improvement projects.
With these apps in your arsenal, you’ll have everything you need to manage your new home like a pro. From organizing maintenance tasks and tracking expenses to finding trusted professionals and getting design inspiration, these apps will help you navigate the world of homeownership with ease. Here’s to many happy years in your new home!
Michele Lerner is an award-winning freelance writer, editor and author who has been writing about real estate, personal finance and business topics for more than two decades.