Home maintenance is among the most dreaded words. While you may think you buy a new home and wait for years before home renovations pile up—you would be surprised how fast little fixes, such as broken windows, busted locks, leaky roofs, and foundation cracks can start to appear after you purchase a home. Getting on top of the following home maintenance projects early will not only will it save you lots of money on larger scale renovations, but it will also help raise the value of your home:

1. Make your front door more inviting
First impressions count, so ensure your front door is inviting and in good condition. If it’s old or damaged, consider replacing it with a modern option—such as a glass front door—that complements the rest of your home. You can even paint the wood around your door to match the rest of your home’s exterior, or you could replace it with a more modern material like aluminum or vinyl siding if you prefer something more durable than wood.

2. Take advantage of storage systems
If there isn’t enough closet or cabinet space in your kitchen, bathroom or basement, consider adding some built-in shelving units or cabinets. Stylish and modern storage systems provide plenty of extra room for storing items like pots and pans, dishes, and more. In addition to helping you find things quickly, a well-organized home makes your space feel bigger by reducing clutter and wasted space.

3. Prevent an expensive roofing costs
Regular maintenance is a good idea if you have a new or an older roof. This includes checking for damage and leaks and repairing any holes and cracks in the roofing material. You also need to clean gutters so water drains away from the house.

4. Avoid pricy window replacements
Replacing windows is one of the most expensive things you can do in your home—even if they’re only minor repairs. If your windows don’t open or close properly, get them fixed before they break completely and require an expensive window replacement company. Fixing ripped screens, spraying and lubricating windows that skip and stick with silicone lubricant, and replacing cracked glass can add years to the life of your existing windows.

5. Get on top of foundation repairs
Irregular ground surfaces and shifting soil can cause problems with your home’s foundation, which keeps your house and walls upright. It’s important to address any foundation issues before they become structural problems requiring expensive repairs. Foundation repair includes filling small cracks with polyurethane, silicone, or latex concrete caulk, installing a concrete footing around the perimeter of your basement if it is exposed, and injecting low-pressure grout between floors if they are separating.

6. Turn that dingy garage into usable space
Garage sales, storage, and other clutter can quickly take over your garage, leaving little room for vehicles and tools. Adding vertical storage—such as shelves or pegboards—will help keep tools and outdoor equipment tidy so you can find what you need when you need it. Insulating your garage floor will help reduce noise from cars pulling in and out and keep things cooler in the summer. Additionally, a new garage door can add curb appeal and make it easier to park in winter.

Home renovation is a significant investment of time, money, and energy. However, if managed properly, it will add value to your home and prepare you for selling potential in the long run. Neglecting these expenses can be costly, both in the short-run and the long-term, so it’s best to take the above steps now to avoid expensive pitfalls down the line.