The Money Advice Nobody Gives New Homeowners (But Really Should)

Many new homeowners end up feeling blindsided by the true cost of owning a home — and the first six months can be the most stressful financially. Not only are savings depleted from the down payment, but a host of unexpected expenses often pop up, from repairs to rising escrow costs and insurance gaps.

“I also think many buyers underestimate how emotionally exhausting homeownership can be,” says real estate expert Ben Mizes. “Renters are accustomed to paying the same amount each month. In contrast, homeowners are responsible for all of the issues, and there’s no landlord to contact.”

We asked the experts for their advice about the financial pitfalls of buying a new home and how to plan for them. Here’s what they said.

Ever-Increasing Escrow

If your property taxes and insurance are wrapped into your monthly mortgage payment, the amount of that payment will rise over time as those costs increase. Also, every year when your lender recalculates the escrow payment, your monthly bill could increase even more, to make up for shortages in the funds they collected — sometimes to the tune of $200 to $400, says mortgage expert Cody Schuiteboer.

“Most buyers call in a panic, asking why their payment suddenly increased,” says Schuiteboer. “But budgeting for the house also entails considering the changing payments, so don’t expect the same payment after year one.”

Pro-tip: Ask for the annual escrow report from your lender, so you understand what your escrow account holds and why.

Property Tax Reassessment

In some places, a home’s value is automatically reassessed after a sale, and that often leads to increased property taxes. “If the previous owner had the house for twenty years, while paying much lower taxes, the new owner will likely face higher property taxes, even up to four times higher,” says Schuiteboer. “That means a homebuyer can inherit a $2,800 annual tax bill that suddenly becomes a $7,500 obligation due to reassessment.”

Pro tip: Ask your real estate agent or lawyer what the value of the home is likely to be after it’s reassessed.

Move-In Costs

All of the little expenses associated with getting settled in a new home — like utility deposits, small repairs and window coverings — add up quickly. “First-time homebuyers are often shocked at the total costs of the first six months of home-ownership,” says real estate professional Jonathan Ayala.

Pro-tip: Make a savings account to cover these expenses, and don’t confuse them with your emergency funds, says Schuiteboer. “Not keeping sufficient emergency funds for three months of expenses is dangerous for your finances,” he says.

First-Year Costs

It’s exciting to be in a new neighborhood, and that often means more entertaining, eating out and opting for house upkeep services. It’s also tempting to speed ahead with renovations and landscaping projects.

“I’ve noticed homeowners spend tens-of-thousands their first year on things like smart home tech, new appliances and furniture,” says Mizes. “And they purchase all of the above on a line of credit or personal loan, because they have already exhausted the bulk of their savings on the down payment and closing costs.”

Pro-tip: Live with the house as-is for a year. You’ll get to know seasonal changes and better understand what to prioritize.

Maintenance Costs

Financial planners recommend putting aside at least 1% to 2% of a home’s purchase price, each year, toward repair costs like water heaters, HVAC systems, roof replacement and other necessities. “But few new homebuyers do that,” says real estate professional Sain Rhodes. “Instead, they resort to using a credit card to cover the expenses.” Not only does that end up costing a lot more down the road, it can also tank your credit score.

Pro-tip: Instead of relying on interest-heavy credit cards, create a separate high-interest savings account at the time of closing, and add your monthly contribution to the account automatically, says Rhodes.

Insurance Gaps

Homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover floods. As such, many homeowners are either required to, or choose to purchase a separate flood insurance policy. “Flood insurance seems unnecessary at first, until it becomes the only protection from financial disaster,” says Rhodes. “One inch of flooding may cause $25,000 in damages, and two feet completely totals the property.”

Pro-tip: Roughly 40% of flood damage claims come from houses outside of FEMA-designated high-risk zones, so consider purchasing a flood policy even if it’s not required by your lender. Also depending on your situation, consider policies for hurricanes, landslides, sewer backup, liability and more.

Misunderstanding Home Warranties

Many new owners buy home warranty plans in the name of guaranteeing the home’s systems for the next five years. “While that statement is correct, most buyers do not realize that there are certain exemptions,” says Schuiteboer. “Home warranties cover system malfunctions, but not preexisting defects, improper installation and cosmetic damage.”

Using the warranty also means hiring the company’s contractors instead of those of your choice. And if you’re not in a major metropolitan area, it may take a long time for one of those contractors to show up.

HOA Reserve Fund

If your house or condo falls under an HOA, pay special attention to the documents detailing the HOA’s reserve fund. If it’s underfunded and can’t cover repairs or improvements to communal spaces, HOAs can raise special assessments, requiring homeowners to pay the difference. “I have personally witnessed buyers experience an HOA special assessment of over $10,000 within their first year of living in the condo, because of their failure to check the finances of the HOA,” says Ayala.

Pro-tip: Request the most recent reserve fund report before closing to assess whether the HOA is properly funded, says Rhodes. “Anything below 70% is a red flag,” she says.

About the Experts

• Cody Schuiteboer is president and CEO of Best Interest Financial, which offers home financing and personalized mortgage solutions.
• Sain Rhodes is a real estate professional with Clever Offers, and has worked on hundreds of closings.
• Ben Mizes is a real estate agent, president of Clever Real Estate and an active investor on 22 rental units.
• Jonathan Ayala is a real estate agent and founder of Real Estate Photography, a platform that connects real estate professionals with photographers worldwide.

RELATED:

• 7 Signs You’re Over-Decorating
• 18 Cheap Decor Ideas That Look Expensive
• 14 Traditional-Style Home Decor Ideas That are Still Cool

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The Simple HVAC Trick That Could Save You Tons on Your Energy Bills

I’ve been in denial about my electricity bill lately. It’s on auto-pay, and while I give it a peek every month or so, what can I do but sigh? Well, that’s a luxury I—and the rest of the non-billionaire world—can no longer afford. Electricity prices are up 6.1% since April 2025, and combined with higher energy prices across the board—especially the skyrocketing price of gas—it’s clear I need to rein in my energy costs. Using off-peak power can help.

What exactly is off-peak power? I’d heard of the term and its savings potential, but I have to admit I hadn’t looked into it (remember my out-of-sight, out-of-mind electricity bill!). But that Texas summer heat isn’t far away, and as an electrician, I know that even little tweaks can translate into big savings.

Ahead, I spoke with Elena Chrimat, an energy-efficiency expert and owner of Ideal Air Conditioning & Insulation in Tempe, Arizona, to learn more about off-peak power. Plus, we’ll give you some actionable (and totally DIY) strategies to boost efficiency in your home, so read on.

What Is Off-Peak Power?

“Off-peak power is the energy you buy from your utility company during the hours when it’s cheapest,” Chrimat says. “Most utility companies offer time-of-use rate plans where the price per kilowatt hour changes throughout the day.”

Sounds simple enough, but is it super inconvenient? I don’t really feel like doing my laundry at 3 a.m., thank you very much. But we don’t have to worry about losing sleep.

“On-peak hours, when energy is most expensive, usually run from around 9 or 10 a.m. to 3 or 4 p.m., depending on your provider,” Chrimat says. “Off-peak is everything outside that window, when energy is cheap to buy.” Of course, it will depend on your utility company, but using off-peak power in the morning and evening sounds OK to me.

Why Timing Your Energy Use Matters

Besides paying less for off-peak power, it matters because utilities struggle to keep up with demand, especially during the middle of summer. “There’s something called the duck curve, and basically what it means is the utility can’t just flip a switch and ramp up a power plant to meet demand,” Chrimat says. “It’s virtually impossible to do that on short notice.”

That’s where you and I come in. “So instead of building new power plants, which is incredibly expensive, they incentivize homeowners through time-of-use plans, thermostat rebates and rebates on energy bills to shift their usage,” she says.

That shift is key. Chrimat says if we keep going on our current trajectory without reducing our energy usage, eventually we’ll have to build new power plants, “and that’s going to raise our energy bills by a lot more than what they’re going up now.”

Understanding Your Local Rate Plan

“This is the first step, and most people skip it: Go to your utility company’s website and look up their rate plans,” Chrimat says. “Every utility offers options because everyone’s schedule is different, and you want to find the plan that matches your lifestyle.”

And don’t forget to check back every year, especially before peak seasons. “We had a homeowner come to us during an energy audit who couldn’t figure out why their bill kept climbing year-over-year even though their actual energy usage was the same,” Chrimat says. “Turned out they were on a time-of-use plan and running their AC right through peak hours without realizing it. Once we got that sorted, the savings were immediate.”

Heating & Cooling Strategies

To get the most out of off-peak power, employ some smart strategies. “The biggest one is pre-cooling,” Chrimat says. “If your home has good attic insulation, you have a real shot at retaining cool air for hours.” (More on that coming up.)

“Set the thermostat down as low as possible during off-peak hours when energy is cheap,” Chrimat says. “Then when on-peak hits, turn the system off or push the thermostat up to 80 if you can tolerate it, or whatever the highest temperature is that you can stand.” Your home will slowly warm, but when energy is cheap again, you can turn the thermostat back down. (Heating works the same but in reverse.)

If this sounds like a lot of planning (and work), there’s a simple fix: “A smart thermostat makes this easier because you can program it to automatically follow your rate plan,” Chrimat says, adding that most utilities also offer “‘demand response programs,” where the utility can adjust your thermostat during peak demand in exchange for a rebate (she says you can usually override this if needed).

Chrimat says her clients typically see a $50 to $100 rebate for buying the thermostat, plus an annual bill credit of around $50.

DIY and Other Improvements That Boost Off-Peak Savings

Beyond using off-peak power plans, you can update your home with some easy improvements. Some are squarely in the DIY category; others might require professional help, depending on how handy you are.

• Add window shades: “Start with exterior shading,” Chrimat says. “You can go to Home Depot or Lowe’s, buy shade screen material, drape it over the exterior of your windows, or build your own shade screens with kits they sell.” Once that radiant heat is inside the home, you’re paying to remove it, she says.
• Plant trees:“Planting trees on the east and west sides of your home does the same thing long-term,” Chrimat says. “Those are the most detrimental sides for sun exposure.”
• Add attic insulation: This is a high-impact addition, but it must be installed correctly. “All the top plates and wire penetrations in the attic need to be air-sealed before the insulation goes down, and the insulation has to be in 100% alignment with the surface for it to function.”
• Seal your ductwork: “If your ducts run through an unconditioned attic and have holes, you can save anywhere from 10% on the low end up to 30% off your cooling bill just by sealing the duct system,” Chrimat says. (Make sure your ductwork is insulated too.)

FAQ

Will my house actually stay comfortable if I turn things down during peak hours?

As long as you’ve done the prep work, Chrimat says yes. “If your insulation is up to par, the home will hold cool air through the on-peak window.” The idea isn’t to suffer, “it’s to pre-cool when energy is cheap so the house can coast through the expensive hours.”

But Chrimat says it’s a personal decision. “I don’t push my own house to 80 because I have dogs that need to stay cool, so the real answer is push it as high as you can tolerate.”

Is this hard on my HVAC system?

Luckily, no, but Chrimat says it is important to stagger your highest loads. “Your highest demand hour might be when your pool pump is running, your AC is on and your water heater decides to kick on at the same moment,” she says. That spike is what drives the utility to ramp up production (and prices).

“Just be mindful of what’s running together, and the system will be fine.”

About the Expert

• Elena Chrimat is the owner of Ideal Air Conditioning & Insulation in Tempe, Arizona. She is a founding board member of the Building Performance Association, a national industry association dedicated to improving residential energy efficiency, and also advocates for utility energy-efficiency programs. Chrimat’s company has received the ENERGY STAR Century Club Award every year since 2013, and she has nearly two decades of experience working in energy efficiency and utility savings.

Sources:

• Elena Chrimat, owner of Ideal Air Conditioning & Insulation in Tempe, Arizona; email interview, May 17, 2026
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: “Consumer Price Index Summary, April 2026”

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Essential Revealing Questions to Ask a Realtor Before You Hire Them

Real estate transactions have a lot of money on the line. Whether buying or selling a home, you’ll want a competent realtor by your side, working to get you the best deal possible. There are a lot of realtors out there, and it can feel overwhelming to know who’s the right realtor for you. To help you sort through it all, we’ve gathered our top ten expert-backed questions to ask a realtor before hiring them and get an edge in today’s competitive market.

Are you a full or part time agent?

There are a lot of realtors out there who only work part time. You want a realtor that works full time and is available for showings, phone calls and fielding offers, so make sure to inquire. “If they say, ‘I do this on my evenings or weekends,’ run,” Korosec says. “Agent availability during the week matters. If a house hits the market at 10 am and gets an offer by 2 pm, you do not have time to wait until the weekend for your agent to respond.”

Will I work with you or members of your team?

Big real estate teams can be great for availability and efficiency, but make sure you are clear about who you’ll be working with. “You don’t want a senior agent selling you on services and then a junior agent actually doing the work,” Leland says. He recommends directly asking if they will be the one at the open house, inspection and the one writing offers. If this person is who you want to work with, then make sure that’s who you’ll actually get.

What is your fee structure and is it flexible?

Traditionally, realtors earn a five to six per cent commission on the sale of a property, which is split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents, but these rates have become more negotiable since 2024. How much your agent expects to earn should be discussed at the first meeting to avoid any surprises at closing. If they really want the sale, some agents may lower their commission rate to stay competitive, but have this settled and in writing before proceeding. “A person who refuses to talk about percentages or refuses to write down commission on paper is a red flag,” Rhodes says.

How long have you lived and worked in this market?

Deep market knowledge and community connections are valuable assets in a realtor. Where a newcomer to a city might rely on online tools to gauge the market, an experienced local can be more precise. “Someone who’s focused on your city’s main sales neighborhood for seven plus years probably knows which cul de sacs flood, which school districts are redrawing boundaries and which HOAs have lump-sum assessments coming due,” Korosec says. “This intel is real talk not found on Zillow.”

Do you have a team of vendors?

“A strong vendor network is one of the biggest perks an experienced agent can offer,” Leland says. “If an agent says ‘just Google it’ when you need a plumber before closing, they are not doing a great job.” A good realtor should have a list of vendors that include roofers, carpenters, handymen, plumbers, electricians and junk removal companies. An agent with longstanding vendor relationships can call in a favor and get things done in a timely manner if needed.

What’s your marketing strategy?

Some realtors are better at marketing than others and this can be the difference between your house sitting on the market or receiving multiple offers. “A good agent should be able to describe exactly how they plan to make your home stand out online,” Leland says. “Ask to see examples of their past listings and have them sell you on their strategy. If they can’t sell their marketing they shouldn’t sell your house.” A strong marketing strategy should involve professional photos, open houses, optimized MLS listings and staging if needed.

What’s your take on the current market?

Successful realtors know the market and follow it very closely. They should be able to talk to you in hard numbers about inventory turnover, how long homes are sitting on the market and whether they’re selling for over or under asking price. These details are highly market specific and can change frequently, so only those who are deeply entrenched in the market will have this information. Watch out for “only positive statements like ‘It’s a great time to buy or sell a home!’ because it’s only a phrase used to sell a deal and not an analysis of the market,” Rhodes says.

What’s your strategy to deal with multiple offers?

Woman checking a list of clients for an open house

Receiving multiple offers is ideal for sellers but can be very stressful for buyers. For sellers, a good agent should have a clear pricing strategy and be able to show you recent comparables to justify the number. Additionally, they should have a plan for open houses, an offer deadline and a method to move quickly to an accepted offer. As a buyer, an agent’s strategy and expertise can help you win a bidding war. “Learn how the agent manages escalation clauses, provides clean terms of the offer and covers possible appraisal gap issues,” Rhodes says.

Will you represent both buyer and seller?

While this is legal in many states, it does represent a serious conflict of interest. “Buyers want to spend as little as possible and sellers want to earn as much as possible,” McGee says. “How can an agent negotiate honestly for both sides in a transaction when they have conflicting goals?” If a realtor says they will represent both sides if approached, then consider walking away and finding an agent who will only represent your interests in the transaction.

Can I see examples of your past or current listings online?

This is a great way to really get a feel for how a realtor operates. “How an agent presents other people’s homes tells you a lot about how they will present yours,” Leland says. Do their other listings look professional and present the property in a positive light? Is the write-up pretty standard or does it stand out for its expressive and descriptive language? Are there lots of photos or just a few? These are all important parts of a potential buyers’ first impression of your home, so make sure it’s a good one.

FAQ

Do I need a realtor to buy a home?

No, you do not need a realtor to buy a home.

What’s the difference between a realtor and a real estate agent?

“Every Realtor is a licensed agent, but not every agent is a Realtor,” Leland says. “The difference is National Association of Realtors membership, which adds a code of ethics and ongoing education.”

How do I know if a realtor is actually licensed?

Every state provides a realtor license database to check that a realtor’s license is active and if there are any disciplinary records.

About the Experts

• Blaz Korosec is cofounder and CFO at Investorade, a Dallas-based real estate investment company that buys homes, RV parks, campgrounds, land, and other properties directly from owners, often with cash offers and as-is sales. He has over twelve years of real estate and finance experience.
• Sain Rhodes is the director of operations and business development at Clever Offers, a real estate platform that helps homeowners find cash buyers and qualified agents.
• Erik Leland is a real estate broker with Realty First in Lake Oswego, Oregon.
• Cari McGee is a managing broker and Realtor with over 650 residential sale. She’s ranked among the top 1 per cent of agents in the U.S.

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Guide to Clearing Your Yard of Sticks, Rocks, and Other Debris

Cleaning a yard can be an intimidating endeavor. That’s why, for a lot of us, the task tends to get put on the back burner. But tackling it brings a lot of benefits.

“A clean, well-maintained yard doesn’t just look better, it’s easier to manage, safer and healthier for your lawn,” says handy-person Christopher Watson. “Letting debris build up can damage grass, attract pests and create more work for you later.”

The good news is, it doesn’t have to be a monumental undertaking. Here are some practical strategies for clearing yards in the easiest way possible, plus what tools you’ll need and how to reuse all of those materials you’ve just cleaned up.

Basic Cleanup Tools

To clean up yard debris, it’s helpful to have:

• Cut-resistant work gloves, to protect your hands from blisters, cuts and splinters,
• Safety glasses and sturdy footwear,
• A leaf rake, to remove leaves, pine needles and twigs without damaging the soil,
• A heavy-duty metal rake, to remove heavier materials,
• Shovels, for removing soil, rocks and larger debris,
• Branch cutting tools, such as a pruner or chainsaw,
• A push broom,
• A trash grabber,
• A magnet sweeper, for catching nails and small bits of metal,
• A wheelbarrow or garden cart, to haul away debris, and
• A leaf blower, to quickly gather finer debris, like leaves and grass clippings.

Real estate preparation expert Derek Shewmon also recommends using a large drag tarp. “That allows you to haul huge loads of debris across the lawn quickly, instead of making dozens of exhausting trips with a standard wheelbarrow,” he says.

Start With Large Debris

Before you begin clearing a yard, choose a staging area near the driveway or gate, where you can sort branches, rocks and garbage into separate piles. It’s most efficient to remove larger objects first, otherwise those get in the way of cleaning up smaller debris, says landscaper Ross Hulstein. “It also has the biggest impact on how the yard looks,” he says.

• Pry up smaller rocks with a shovel, or use a stiff landscape rake to pull them into piles. From there, use a flat shovel to scoop them into a bucket or wheelbarrow. For less strain, consider using a garden cart, like a Gorilla Cart.
• Use leverage to move large rocks, like a pry bar and block of wood. Using plywood to roll them can also help protect the soil and prevent injuries, says site preparation expert Daniel Crowley.
• Chop up large branches and sort them by size. Then stack them neatly and bundle the stacks together.
• Separate trash and recyclables from yard waste.
• Use caution with brush piles, as wildlife may be nesting inside.
• Use a rigid container for broken glass to prevent punctures.

Safety pro-tip: “Take care with this step, because the first pass is where you’re going to be coming across all of the hidden nails, glass, thorns and sharp metal,” says home improvement expert Josh Eberly.

How to Clear Small Debris Efficiently

Leaf blowers, rakes and push brooms are effective for clearing yards of small, light debris, like leaves, needles and grass clippings. A rake can also help loosen layers of dead grass. “Work in sections to stay organized,” says Watson. “First, rake debris into rows and combine into piles, then remove it using a tarp or shovel.”

Pro-tip: Choose the right weather for clean-up days. Slightly damp leaves are easier to manage, but moisture makes branches heavier and causes gravel and debris to stick to the ground.

Reusing and Recycling Natural Materials

Clearing yards doesn’t have to mean sending a lot of material to the landfill.

• Use leaves for compost and much.
• Branches make good firewood and garden borders. You can also rent a wood chipper to turn them into mulch.
• Grass clippings work well as natural fertilizer.
• Rocks are ideal for landscaping, drainage paths and erosion control.
• Piles of wood, rocks and/or leaves, provide shelter for invertebrates, including native bees and other pollinators, plus harbor insects that feed birds.
• Don’t reuse diseased limbs, invasive vines or those with fungus.

“While buyer preferences for landscaping styles vary, showcasing sustainable practices, like recycling healthy organic yard waste, consistently adds value to the property,” says Shewmon.

Safety pro-tip: Wear a dust mask when reusing mulch or soil. “Dormant mold spores become airborne before you notice odor or discoloration,” says Crowley.

FAQ

How often should I clear yard debris?

For regular maintenance, clear away debris every month or so in the summer, and two weeks in the spring and fall. After a storm, it’s also important to promptly remove debris, to keep everyone safe.

What should I do with large rocks?

Large rocks are great for landscaping borders, pathways and drainage areas. “You can also relocate them to unused areas or create rock piles for practical use,” says Watson. “Or, if they’re excessive or otherwise in your way, your neighbors might be interested in them.”

About the Experts

• Christopher Watson is a handy-person and home expert at American Home Shield.
• Derek Shewmon is founder of HOMEstretch, a company that helps homeowners prepare their properties for the market.
• Daniel Crowley is CEO of Hello Gravel, which specializes in aggregate materials and site preparation for residential and commercial projects.
• Ross Hulstein is owner at Enviroscapes, a full-service landscaping and grounds maintenance company in Denver, Colorado.
• Josh Eberly is a home improvement, outdoor living and site prep specialist, and design lead at Marygrove Awnings, which serves 18 states in the east and Midwest.

RELATED:

• 7 Reasons Why Your Houseplants Might Stink
• 8 Must-Know Tips to Drought-Proof Your Lawn
• Tired of Raking Leaves? Plant These Trees Instead

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Garden Smarter, Not Redder: Sun Protection Tips for Every Gardener

As gardeners, we spend so much time in the sun that some dermatologists compare our skin damage to that of lifeguards. But we don’t often realize our lack of sun protection— and just how much we’re putting ourselves at risk.

“Gardeners often misjudge their sun exposure as they move between plants, shade and tasks,” says skin expert Dr. Daniel Careaga. “But the time you spend gardening adds to your lifetime UV exposure, and should warrant the same dedication as watering, pruning and planting.”

We talked to some skin care experts about gardening-specific sun protection, including how to choose the best sunscreen and apply it. Here is their advice.

Sun Protection Is Essential

Gardening often draws us outside precisely when UV rays are at their peak intensity, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. “And unlike a day at the beach, where you know you’re in the sun, gardening feels low stakes,” says health and wellness expert Jason Vaught. “You’re just pulling weeds or watering plants, and that casual feeling is exactly what makes it dangerous.”

It’s not just sunburns that cause skin damage, but also cumulative exposure to UV rays. And while protective clothing goes a long way, sunscreens are also a must because UV rays reflect off of surfaces like concrete, fences and soil. “That means you’re getting hit from multiple directions at once, not just from above,” says Vaught.

Common skin damage gardeners overlook

UV light exposure triggers oxidative stress, which potentially leads to a long list of skin issues, including dark “sun” spots, wrinkles, rough texture precancerous changes and skin cancer.

At the Bar Beauty Medical clinic, founder Basil Russo says one particular issue is hyperpigmentation across the neckline and upper chest, which they’ve nicknamed the “gardener’s V.” Sun spots on the back of hands, and actinic keratoses on the temples and bald scalp are also common. “But forearms and hands take the worst of it because they get sun every session and rarely get SPF reapplied,” says Russo. “And the damage shows up 15 to 20 years later.”

Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Gardening

All of our experts recommended a broad-spectrum sunscreen (which means it blocks both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF of at least 30 for a daily routine, and 50 or more when gardening in intense sunlight. Also, choose a product with at least 80 minutes of water/sweat resistance, and if you sweat heavily or have sensitive skin, opt for those with mineral compositions, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, over chemical ones.

“There is no best sunscreen; it’s how you use the sunscreen products that make the difference,” says dermatologist Dr. Susan Massick. That means using the proper amount, consistently, and reapplying it during prolonged exposure.

Understanding SPF

Sun Protective Factor, or SPF, is a measure of how long it takes protected skin to burn. The higher the SPF number, the more protection a sunscreen offers.

However, protection tops out at around SPF 50. “The common belief that SPF 100 gives you double the protection of SPF 50 is flat out wrong,” says Vaught. “It gives you maybe one additional percent of blockage.”

The SPF number on the bottle also assumes you’re applying a full ounce of product across your body. “Most people use about a quarter of that,” says Vaught. “If you’re applying SPF 50 too thinly, you’re likely getting closer to SPF 10 or 15 worth of actual protection.”

Note: SPF only denotes the amount of UVB rays being blocked, which are the ones that cause sunburns. But UVA rays are responsible for long-term skin damage and aging, which is why it’s important to use a broad-spectrum product.

What Gardeners Should Look For In Sunscreen

• Broad-spectrum protection, for both UVA and UVB rays.
• SPF 50+ for intense days, SPF 30+ for a daily routine.
• Water and sweat resistance, rated for at least 80 minutes.
• Mineral-based, preferably with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the lead active ingredients. Those sit on top of the skin to physically block UV rays, plus begin working immediately, vs. chemical sunscreens, which takes about 15 minutes. If you do go with a chemical composition, make sure it contains avobenzone for UVA rays, says Russo.

Vaught recommends going fragrance-free. “You’re already exposed to plants, soil and fertilizers that can irritate skin,” he says. “Adding a fragranced sunscreen on top of that is just asking for a reaction.”

Russo also recommends applying a thin layer of niacinamide + ceramide moisturizer right after washing up, to help restore the skin barrier.

How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly

• If you’re using a chemical-based product, apply it 15 minutes before going outside.
• Use 1/4 teaspoon for your face, and one ounce for your full body.
• Reapply every two hours, or right after sweating heavily or wiping your skin with a towel.

“You can never put on too much sunscreen,” says Massick. “Apply liberally and don’t forgot more sensitive areas, like your scalp, tops of feet, back of the neck, ears and lips.”

Don’t Forget Protective Clothing

While sunscreen is an important line of defense, wearing the right clothing is also essential for long-term sun protection. That’s because even with sunscreen, your skin still has to manage the oxidative stress caused by UV exposure, says PharmD Lily Shapiro.

• Optimal protective clothing includes:
• UPF 50+ long-sleeve gardening shirts
• A wide-brimmed hat (at least 4”)
• Wraparound UV sunglasses
• Gardening gloves with cuffs that cover the wrist.

FAQ

Why do gardeners need sunscreen even on cloudy days?

Up to 80% of UV rays still penetrate through clouds. “It’s actually the sneakiest burn because the heat is lower so you don’t notice the exposure,” says Russo.

How often should gardeners reapply sunscreen?

Every two hours, but more often if you’re sweating a lot or getting wet.

Can I get sunburned while gardening in the shade?

Yes. While trees and shade structures block some UV rays, others still reflect off of concrete, water and other light-colored objects, causing diffused exposure.

About the Experts

• Dr. Susan Massick is a board-certified dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
• Basil Russo is founder of Bar Beauty Medical, a Toronto-based medical aesthetics clinic.
• Jason Vaught is an expert in consumer health and wellness products, and currently director of content and marketing at SmashBrand, a CPG strategy, design and testing firm.
• Dr. Daniel Careaga is a US board-certified plastic surgeon, an expert sun damage medical issues and founder of Careaga Plastic Surgery in Miami.
• Lily Shapiro, PharmD, specializes in nutritional dermatology and skin aging and is founder of ATIKA skin support products.

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8 Unwritten Etiquette Rules for a Handyman Visit

Have the Details Decided Ahead of Time

This tip is relevant for larger projects during the initial meeting and estimate stage. Contractors and vendors are not there to advise on the scope and vision of the project and you should bring that to the table at your first meeting. If you’re having rooms painted, know the color and sheen ahead of time, because it impacts project costs. For tiling jobs, pick out the tile before meeting with the tiling pro.

Clear the Space Before They Arrive

To save time and money, consider what might be in the way and move it before pros arrive. “We truly appreciate when customers prepare the home by moving things accordingly to make it easier for us to navigate and install,” Uri Pearl of Nealon Insulation says. “This is especially true for valuables that they don’t want to get dusty.” For example, empty the cabinet underneath the sink before the plumber arrives to service the drain.

Greet at the Door

Meeting service pros at the door is a simple gesture that sets the tone for the workday. “It’s always nice when the homeowner is there to greet the contractor or team when they arrive. Even if the details of the project have already been ironed out ahead of time, this initial meeting is definitely helpful with clearing up any last minute questions, plus it’s just helpful for everyone to meet and touch base at the start,” Andre Kazimierski of HomeHero Roofing says.

Offer a Drink

It’s just good manners to offer a handyman something to drink while in your home. Coffee in the morning is nice, in case they were running late and couldn’t stop first, and cold water is nice on a warm day. However, don’t make it a constant gesture. “What I don’t need are offers of coffee and food all day long,” Tyler Hull of Modern Exterior Roofing says. “Each time we stop to politely decline and chat, we lose 10 to 15 minutes.”

Point Out the Bathroom

This one is often overlooked, but it’s nice to know where the bathroom is as a handyperson or vendor in a customers’ home. I’ve always found it awkward to ask, and sometimes customers want you to use a specific bathroom, so you don’t want to guess. Showing them the bathroom also helps show the layout of the house and makes service people feel welcome in your home.

Ask about temperature preferences

People work best when they’re comfortable, and sometimes air temperature can influence the job’s outcome. For example, for winter interior painting projects, I ask for the heat to be turned down to prevent the paint from drying too quickly. On a humid summer day, I request air conditioning, if available, to aid the paint drying process. Some people like to work in cooler or warmer temperatures, so it’s nice to ask their preference.

Don’t hover

This is a big one among home service pros. Show them the problem, then make yourself scarce, but available if needed. “Make sure we have access to everything we need and then let us do our thing in peace,” Scott Eyman of Eyman Plumbing, Heating and Air says. “If a job is three hours in duration, I like to hear from you every so often but please trust the process. Giving us space while we work generally leads to a more enjoyable process for all parties.” If you head out, let workers know you’re available by phone.

Don’t Change the Scope of the Job

Changing a job scope on the morning of or mid-project is a huge time and money loss for small-time operators and likely not possible with larger companies. “Asking the crew on-site for a modification in work or pricing is a common mistake done by inexperienced homeowners,” Daniel Cabrera of Roof Direct San Antonio says. “Changes have to be done through the office as change orders.”

About the Experts

• Daniel Cabrera is the owner of Roof Direct in San Antonio, Texas.
• Tyler Hull is the general manager for Modern Exterior Roofing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
• Scott Eyman is a project manager at Eyman Plumbing, Heating and Air, a family-based company servicing Nebraska and Iowa.
• Andre Kazimierski is co-owner and and president of HomeHero Roofing in Illinois.
• Uri Pearl is a certified insulation expert for Nealon Insulation, a home weatherization company based in the Northeast.

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Are Car Air Fresheners Harming Your Health?

Car air fresheners seem pretty harmless, right? Drivers all around the world use them, and the variation of fragrances are seemingly endless. New car, fresh linen, citrus, pine, coastal breeze… some people even like gas and oil air fresheners.

I recently learned that drivers with strong/negative olfactory senses when around fragrance-heavy products, especially inside smaller vehicles where airflow stays limited, can have strong negative reactions.

So, can car air fresheners actually be bad for your health? Learn what drivers, especially anyone who drives for work, commutes long distances, or roadtrip often, should know about car air fresheners and how to keep a vehicle fresh without overdoing it.

Why Some Car Air Fresheners Cause Symptoms

Mainstream car air fresheners in the U.S. are required to meet certain safety standards. However, that doesn’t mean they are necessarily “safe” or will be comfortable for everyone. In fact, a 2020 study by the CDC found that car air fresheners, including both regular and natural versions, emit numerous volatile chemicals, some classified as hazardous, many of which are not disclosed to the public.

“Car air freshener emissions are of particular concern, given that car interiors are small and enclosed spaces that can be subject to air pollutants from both outdoor and indoor sources, and thus air fresheners represent an additional source of pollutants and health risks,” the study says. “In addition, air fresheners, which add a chemical mixture into the air space, are designed to impart a scent or mask an odor, rather than to reduce air pollutants or health risks.”

Some air fresheners release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. In a compact car with closed windows, occupants can inhale these chemicals without enough fresh air to clear them out. The CDC study also noted that vent clips could dispense “potentially hazardous VOCs into the enclosed space” because they attach directly to the car air vent.

According to the EPA, fragrances and scented products can contribute to indoor air pollution. Some drivers notice symptoms almost immediately.

The American Lung Association says people with asthma, allergies, migraines, or chemical sensitivities have stronger reactions, and that common irritation areas include the nose, throat, or eyes. Headaches, dizziness, coughing, brain fog, or light-headedness are also possible.

Anyone with children, pets, or elderly or immunosensitive passengers should be especially cautious.

Safer Ways To Keep A Car Smelling Fresh

Air fresheners, as the name implies, are normally used to freshen or “cleanse” stale air or bad odors. A better option over trying to mask that unpleasant smell would be to fix the cause of the stink. Common odors could include garbage, gym clothes, wet mats or seats, or a dirty cabin air filter that prevents the stale air from being cleansed by the vehicle.

If you’re insistent on using your favorite air freshener, opt for milder scents and periodically open the windows to allow fresh air to enter the vehicle. The stronger formulas can be the biggest issue. Scents marketed as “extra strength” or “long-lasting” may work better in larger areas than inside a small vehicle cabin.

Also, only use one air freshener at a time and opt for ones that don’t clip to the vehicle’s vent. If a new air freshener is causing any symptoms, it’s likely too strong for the space and not worth the health impact.

As always, safety should always be priority number one when handling heavy machinery.

Sources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Volatile Chemical Emissions from Car Air Fresheners
• Environmental Protection Agency: “The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality”
• American Lung Association: “Indoor Air Pollutants and Health

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