#20: Knowledge Is Power
Most homeowners learn some simple handyman skills to help themselves out with things like changing a light fixture or tightening a pipe fitting. This lady took it to a whole other level, and we love her for that. She shared that she and her husband took some community college extension classes and became certified electricians! Because they both passed their state’s certification exam, they both knew how to maintain their home.
They were able to install new heat pumps and upgrade their house’s central A/C all on their own. They didn’t even have to pay for an outside contractor! All in all, they only paid about $4,000 for a job that would have cost upwards of $16,000 if they hired someone else. Talk about long-term savings! We know not everyone will take their need to save this far, but it’s pretty awesome if you’re motivated to do so.