Seniors Share Their 8 Favorite Homeowner Hacks

Retirement looks a little different than it did just a few years ago. Between rising grocery prices, insurance costs, utilities, and home maintenance, many homeowners are looking for simple ways to save money, make life easier, and stay comfortable in the homes they love.

A comfortable, well-maintained home is at the heart of a happy retirement.
A comfortable, well-maintained home is at the heart of a happy retirement.

So we asked around. From safety upgrades to money-saving services and helpful homeowner resources, these are seven of the favorite homeownership hacks retirees say have made the biggest difference. We hope a few of them help you, too.

In This Article

  1. Compare Walk-In Shower & Tub Prices
  2. Replace Old Windows & Lower Bills
  3. Stairlifts For Two-Story Homes
  4. Solar Panels & Energy Savings
  5. 3 Questions Before Hiring A Contractor
  6. Tired Of Timeshare Maintenance Fees?
  7. Owe The IRS More Than $10,000?
  8. Five Scams Targeting Seniors Right Now

1 Homeowners are comparing walk-in shower & tub prices

Hack #1

Homeowners Are Comparing Walk-In Shower & Tub Prices

Many senior homeowners are replacing old dangerous tubs with walk-in bathtubs or low-threshold walk-in showers that are easier to step into and much safer.

Instead of calling multiple contractors, many homeowners simply compare several quotes online first to see what's available in their area.

Compare Walk-In Shower & Tub Prices Near You

2 Replace old windows and lower energy bills

Hack #2

Replace Old Windows & Lower Energy Bills

If your windows are drafty or more than 15–20 years old, replacing them with modern energy-efficient windows may help lower heating and cooling costs while making your home more comfortable year-round.

Many homeowners are surprised to learn they can compare quotes from local contractors online at no cost.

See If You Qualify For A Free Window Quote

3 Stairlifts can make two-story homes comfortable again

Hack #3

Stairlifts Can Make Two-Story Homes Comfortable Again

If climbing stairs has become difficult, a stairlift may allow you to continue enjoying your entire home without worrying about falls.

Newer models are quieter, fold neatly against the wall, and often install in a single day. Getting multiple quotes is one of the easiest ways to save money.

Compare Stairlift Quotes

4 Are your solar panels actually saving you money

Hack #4

Are Your Solar Panels Actually Saving You Money?

Many homeowners installed solar expecting lower electric bills. But for some, monthly payments, financing costs, or system performance haven't lived up to expectations.

If your solar system isn't saving you money like you were promised, you can take a free 60-second quiz to see whether your contract qualifies for a professional review.

Take the Free Solar Contract Review

Hack #5

Three Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask Before Hiring a Contractor

Whether you're replacing windows, remodeling a bathroom, or installing a stairlift, choosing the right contractor matters.

Before signing anything, ask:

  • 1 Are you licensed and insured?
  • 2 Can I see recent customer reviews?
  • 3 Will I receive a written estimate?

Getting multiple quotes is one of the easiest ways to avoid overpaying and gives you confidence that you're making an informed decision.

5 Three questions every homeowner should ask before hiring a contractor

6 Tired of paying timeshare maintenance fees

Hack #6

Tired Of Paying Timeshare Maintenance Fees?

Many retirees no longer use their timeshare but continue paying yearly maintenance fees.

Attorney-backed timeshare exit firms may be able to legally cancel qualifying contracts and help owners move on permanently. A quick eligibility review can tell you whether your situation qualifies.

See If Your Timeshare Qualifies

7 Owe the IRS more than $10,000

Hack #7

Owe The IRS More Than $10,000?

Tax debt can quickly become overwhelming, especially after penalties and interest begin adding up.

Some tax relief companies work directly with the IRS to explore programs that may reduce what you owe or create more manageable repayment options. Not everyone qualifies, but many people are surprised by the options available.

Check Your Tax Relief Eligibility

Hack #8

Five Scams Targeting Seniors Right Now

Unfortunately, scammers continue targeting older Americans through phone calls, text messages, email, and even social media.

Here are a few of the biggest scams to watch for:

If anyone pressures you to act immediately or asks for gift cards or wire transfers, it's almost always a scam. Taking a few extra minutes to verify who you're talking to can save thousands of dollars.

Medicare card scams
Fake IRS calls
Tech support pop-ups
Grandparent emergency scams
Package delivery text messages