Make a plan

List the maintenance tasks your home requires throughout the year and schedule them over the next 12 months. Give priority to the most urgent ones. Spread the others evenly to avoid feeling overburdened!

Book tradies now

Some jobs are best left to the experts, such as servicing the gas heater and air-conditioner or cleaning the gutters and downpipes... Book your favourite tradies now. It will avoid the frustration of calling them during their busiest period and joining a long queue.

Deep clean and declutter

Surely, there's not a home in Australia that wouldn't benefit from the occasional purge of unused belongings. Attack this challenge by going room by room. Prioritise the most used areas, such as the kitchen and living room.

Bring nature home

This is a lovely New Year's resolution – always have flowers in the house. They add life and colour to any kitchen or living area. This practice is common in Europe and would benefit any Aussie home. In summer, try using native blooms, which will last longer in the heat!