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While some aspects of an appraisal, such as comparable properties nearby, are out of your control, there are several steps you can take to potentially increase your home's value. Make any necessary repairs and upgrades before the appraiser's visit, as they can only value what is currently part of the home, not its potential. Examples include renovating older areas, updating landscaping to boost curb appeal, and staging your home. You can also provide the appraiser with the cost of recent upgrades, which may increase your home's value by about 50% or more of what you paid for those improvements.

There are several strategic ways to lower your home insurance premium. The primary one is to shop around and get quotes every few years to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Also, sometimes bundling your auto and homeowner’s insurance will get you a discount on both. Finally, try to keep your credit score up; many homeowner insurance companies use credit scores to generate quotes.

Leaving vents open but closing doors in unused rooms will probably not save money on your energy bill. Closed doors prevent the natural flow of air throughout the home, which could reduce the efficiency of the overall HVAC system. They could also restrict airflow into and through the return vents, making the HVAC system less efficient.

Yes, a dirty air filter can cause a higher electric bill. That’s because clogged filters make it harder for air to flow through your HVAC system, which forces it to work harder and use more energy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing dirty filters can save you between 5% and 15% in utility costs.