Woman paying bills on her couch

Owning a home comes with never-ending expenses, and rising prices have pushed many homeowners to rethink where their money goes. Some are pressing pause on purchases and services they once considered non-negotiable. Here are seven common things being skipped to save cash.

Routine Landscaping Services

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Hiring a lawn crew can add up fast. Many homeowners are pulling back on weekly visits and tackling yard work themselves. While it takes more time, the savings can be significant over the course of a year.

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Professional Cleaning

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Paying for a cleaning service can feel like a luxury during tighter times. Skipping even a few monthly visits can free up extra cash. Homeowners are finding that with a set schedule, they can handle most chores on their own.

Home Décor Upgrades

Man and woman sitting on a couch looking though a book of fabric swatches
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Seasonal throw pillows, trendy wall art, and other décor swaps are often the first to go. People are keeping what they have longer instead of constantly refreshing their space. It’s a simple way to save without impacting daily comfort.

Subscription Pest Control

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Ongoing pest control plans can cost hundreds each year. Some homeowners are switching to DIY treatments or calling in a pro only when there’s a problem. This move trims costs without eliminating protection entirely.

Premium Cable or Streaming Bundles

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Entertainment budgets are shrinking, and extra channels or streaming services are being cut. Many are choosing one or two favorites instead of paying for a lineup they barely use. The savings show up quickly on monthly bills.

Annual HVAC Tune-Ups

Central air unit outside of a house
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While regular maintenance is smart, some homeowners are skipping annual checkups and only calling for service when needed. It’s a gamble that can save money short-term but may lead to higher repair costs later.

Kitchen Remodel Plans

Painter leaning on a counter with a paintbrush
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Big renovations are getting pushed back in favor of smaller fixes. Instead of a full remodel, homeowners might repaint cabinets, swap out hardware, or add a new backsplash. These small updates refresh the space at a fraction of the cost.

Rethinking What’s “Essential”

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Cutting costs often means questioning old spending habits. Homeowners are finding that skipping certain expenses doesn’t always feel like a sacrifice — especially when the trade-off is a healthier budget.

The $50 Home Upgrades You’ll Wish You Tried Sooner

Woman wearing goggles building a wooden frame
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Tight budgets don’t mean you can’t improve your home while cutting costs in the future. Plenty of small, cost-efficient changes not only make your space look and feel better but also help reduce energy bills and maintenance expenses. Here are impactful upgrades you can make for $50 or less that deliver long-term savings. The $50 Home Upgrades You’ll Wish You Tried Sooner