Green Energy and Home Insurance: What You Need to Know

As more homeowners choose to “unplug” from traditional utilities, the insurance industry is beginning to adapt with specialized coverage and incentives. To save energy and reduce their environmental impact, many homeowners are moving beyond simple steps like recycling or using high-efficiency lighting and are instead generating their own power.

Living “Off the Grid”

Taking a home “off the grid” involves using alternative energy sources—such as solar panels or geothermal pumps—rather than hooking up to a public electric or gas company. While this was once a niche lifestyle, it is a growing movement. Estimates suggest that hundreds of thousands of households now operate independently of the public grid, with that number growing by roughly 10% each year.

Insurance Discounts for Sustainable Living

The insurance industry is starting to recognize the value of environmentally responsible homes. Some insurers have begun offering discounts—often around 5%—for homeowners who utilize solar or geothermal systems.

However, insurers generally distinguish between “safe” alternative energy and potential hazards:

• Approved Systems: Geothermal and solar systems are viewed as safe, modern technologies. To qualify for discounts, systems typically must be installed by qualified contractors and meet high efficiency standards.
• Fire Risks: Homes relying solely on wood fireplaces or coal stoves for heat are often viewed as higher risks due to the increased chance of fire, making them more difficult to insure.

Is Specialized Coverage Required?

In most cases, you do not need to buy additional riders or separate policies to cover alternative energy equipment.

• Replacement Cost: The value of solar panels or geothermal pumps is typically included in your home’s total replacement cost.
• Policy Reviews: It is vital to ensure your policy limits accurately reflect the cost to rebuild or repair your home with these high-tech systems included.

The Future of Green Insurance

While not every major carrier offers a specific “green discount” yet, most are willing to underwrite policies for off-the-grid homes. These properties are generally evaluated on an individual basis, looking at the specific risks and the quality of the installation.

As sustainable building practices become more mainstream, industry experts anticipate that more providers will offer competitive “off-the-grid” discounts to attract eco-conscious homeowners. For now, the trend is clear: as homeowners migrate toward greener living, the insurance market is moving right along with them.

Every homeowner should consider the benefits and risks of purchasing flood insurance, particularly as the seasons change. There are generally two primary ways to obtain this protection: through private insurance carriers or through government-subsidized programs.

Spring is statistically the time of year when the most flooding occurs due to rapid snowmelt and unpredictable weather patterns.

What is Flood Insurance?

Flood insurance provides financial backing to property owners if they incur water damage caused by rising surface water. Before a policy is issued, providers typically investigate the specific flood risks associated with the property’s location.

What Does Flood Insurance Cover?

Lowlands, floodplains, and areas with an extensive history of water damage will likely carry higher premiums. It is important to understand that insurance providers generally only provide coverage if the damage is caused directly by a flood event. For example, if a home is damaged by a different mechanical or structural issue during a storm, the claim may be denied if flooding wasn’t the primary cause.

The two most common types of coverage consist of:

• Building Coverage: Protects the actual physical structure of the house.
• Contents Coverage: Protects the items inside the property, such as furnaces, water heaters, carpeting, electrical systems, and personal belongings.

Why Buy Flood Insurance During Spring?

Spring is often considered the most critical time to secure coverage. Despite the onset of warmer weather, frozen ground cannot absorb melting snow or heavy rainfall. Instead, this water flows over the surface and into water banks near residential areas.

Heavy rain and rapid snowmelt are standard seasonal trends that can lead to life-threatening conditions and significant property loss. Having protection in place before these weather patterns begin can help ease the massive financial burden of a flood.

Potential Disadvantages and Limits

When selecting a plan, it is vital to read the fine print regarding coverage “loopholes.” Providers evaluate claims based on the direct cause of the event; if a non-flooding issue is determined to be the culprit, you may be left without reimbursement.

Additionally, some policies—particularly those funded by government programs—have specific limits. For instance, some plans only provide the actual cash value for lost belongings (their value at the time of the loss) rather than the replacement cost (what it actually costs to buy a new version today). In these specific circumstances, a policyholder should weigh the long-term cost against the specific payout limits.

Helping Children Navigate “Big Emotions”

Children experience a vast spectrum of emotions as they grow and explore the world. Feelings like frustration, anger, sadness, excitement, and anxiety are all natural parts of development. However, many children struggle to process these “big emotions,” especially when they feel overwhelmed or lack the tools to express themselves. Counseling provides a guided environment where children can understand their feelings and build healthy habits for the future.

Understanding the Intensity of Childhood Emotions

Young children often experience emotions intensely because the brain centers responsible for regulation are still developing. When a child is overwhelmed, it may manifest as tantrums, social withdrawal, or difficulty focusing. These reactions are often a signal that the child needs help identifying and articulating what they are feeling in a constructive way.

Professional support helps children realize that all emotions are normal. Through consistent guidance, they begin to connect their feelings to specific triggers, helping them understand the “why” behind their reactions.

Cultivating Emotional Awareness

A primary step in emotional management is teaching children to name what they are experiencing. Many children act out simply because they lack the specific vocabulary to explain their internal state.

Counselors often use age-appropriate tools—such as storytelling, games, and creative play—to help children label different feelings. Once a child can put a name to a feeling, they are much better equipped to communicate their needs and approach situations with more clarity.

Developing Practical Coping Strategies

Sessions often focus on “in-the-moment” strategies that children can use when they feel a surge of emotion. These practical skills help children pause and think before reacting impulsively. Common techniques include:

• Deep Breathing: Learning to use slow, controlled breaths to physically calm the nervous system.
• Calming Visualizations: Using the imagination to shift focus away from a stressor.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Learning to identify a challenge and brainstorm a verbal solution rather than a physical one.

Building Resilience and Confidence

As children master these tools, their self-confidence grows. They learn that while they cannot always control what happens to them, they can control how they respond. This builds emotional resilience—the ability to recover from setbacks and adapt to change. This resilience is a foundational skill that helps them navigate school, friendships, and family dynamics more successfully.

The Role of Parents and Caregivers

Emotional development is most successful when supported both in professional sessions and at home. Therapists often collaborate with caregivers to create a consistent environment. This might include:

• Validating Feelings: Learning how to acknowledge a child’s perspective without necessarily agreeing with their behavior.
• Open Communication: Encouraging a household culture where it is safe to talk about difficult feelings.
• Co-Regulation: Practicing calming strategies alongside the child during moments of high stress.

Empowering Long-Term Well-Being

Learning to manage big emotions is one of the most important tasks of childhood. With the right support, children can transform overwhelming feelings into opportunities for growth. Counseling provides a safe, non-judgmental space for children to develop the awareness and resilience they need to handle life’s ups and downs with confidence.

How can you grow and develop as a manager? 

Stepping into a leadership position for the first time can be daunting, even if you feel prepared to handle your new responsibilities. Going from focusing primarily on your own work’s quality to overseeing an entire team’s output can feel overwhelming. However, effectively leading your team and experiencing success can be extremely rewarding. 

The relationship between a manager and their team can be complex to navigate. There’s more to it than telling everyone what to do; in fact, that management approach is highly discouraged. We’ll explore the characteristics of true leaders in management positions and a few behaviors to avoid to become an excellent manager.

What are the ideal characteristics of good managers?

We’ll highlight four primary characteristics of good managers and offer advice from seasoned influencers on how to incorporate these traits into your leadership style.  

1. Good managers are collaborative.

Creating a collaborative environment where everyone feels heard, respected and valued is a crucial step for new managers. A team that works together creates a welcoming, supportive culture. 

As a manager, you can encourage a collaborative environment by setting the pace for workplace ethics.

According to Summer Salomonsen, former chief learning officer at Grovo, tips for creating a collaborative work environment include delegating tasks, encouraging communication and feedback through regular one-on-one meetings, and prioritizing reciprocal trust among the team.

2. Supportive managers are growth-oriented.

Good managers should focus on helping their employees progress both individually and collectively. Get to know your workers personally so you can help them leverage their talents. Find what works and what doesn’t, and prioritize identifying and removing obstacles so your employees can perform at their best.

Will Esdaile, vice president of performance marketing at Blue Nile, suggests that managers “have a development goal that isn’t about the business. Have one goal focused on the development of a person (or people) on your team that isn’t connected to a business outcome. This could be developing confidence in presenting by sharing work to a big group or learning a new language.”

3. Excellent managers know how to communicate.

Communication is a driving force behind nearly everything people do, so clear communication is a vital characteristic for supervisors. You should set clear expectations for your employees, be transparent about important topics, and establish guidelines for both giving and receiving feedback.

To inspire original thinking, Salomonsen advises managers to create a diverse and inclusive company culture where everyone can voice their concerns, opinions and ideas. Encourage authenticity and vulnerability by leading by example, this could be asking for help or admitting you don’t understand something in front of your staff. Great leaders are aware of their strengths and weaknesses, and communicate how they are working to improve challenges.

Did You Know?

Communication is key to employee engagement and job satisfaction. It’s crucial to communicate concisely with your team so misunderstandings don’t hinder their work.

4. Good managers motivate their employees to improve.

Money isn’t the only incentive that motivates employees. Every worker wants to feel valued. If they don’t believe their work is making a difference in some way, they won’t be motivated. 

Yaniv Masjedi, marketing personnel at Aura, said new managers should “take some time to get to know each team member’s strengths and where they need extra support. Use assignments as a learning process for you and your team. Then support where needed and lean extra hard when you’re able to.”

Masjedi added it’s best to learn alongside your team as you grow into your role. Your staff will see you putting in the work to improve, which will inspire them to do better in their own positions.

Tip

When you’re managing remote teams, proactive communication is crucial. Hold regular meetings and set clear guidelines on what communication methods to use in specific circumstances.

Bad leadership habits every manager should avoid 

New managers often fall into bad leadership habits as they take on their new responsibilities. Salomonsen noted six leadership weaknesses to avoid at all costs.

• Providing only negative feedback: Managers can fall into the trap of providing feedback only during performance reviews or when problems arise. Feedback is essential to an employee’s professional development. However, feedback includes praise for specific tasks, not just criticism. When employees experience a carousel of negative – and only negative – feedback, they can become discouraged and thus disengage from their work.
• Micromanaging staff: While you must oversee your team’s workflow and help staff handle roadblocks, you shouldn’t try to control them completely. It’s essential to trust your team to complete tasks as a whole and respect each individuals’ work style. Forcing your workers to perform tasks counter to their typical methods can cause a significant drop in productivity as they adjust. As long as the end result is the same, give your staff room for creativity.
• Not requesting feedback: Poor managers rarely solicit or address questions, feedback and concerns. Good managers offer the floor to team members so they can freely express their questions and concerns. This will often clear up misunderstandings and create a more collaborative space. Keep in mind if one team member has a question, others may need the same guidance.
• Shutting themselves off from new ideas: Closed-minded managers won’t accept criticism or new ideas. They become a roadblock keeping the team from performing at its best. Each team member has their own perspective on the creative process, and is uniquely suited to recognize inefficiencies within their workflow. Listen to your team’s input, and use their perspectives to enact positive change.
• Avoiding tricky conversations: Good managers must tackle challenging situations that affect the team’s productivity head-on. Avoiding these situations lets the problem fester and can cause employee engagement to drop significantly. 
• Not setting clear expectations: Bad managers are unclear about team goals and often set expectations too high or low. Instead, managers should establish project expectations before starting so their team understands the end goal. Setting expectations too high can make goals seem unattainable, but going too low can cause the overall performance to fall under key benchmarks.

What strategies should a new manager implement?

Several techniques help new managers ensure their team is working optimally. Consider these methods:

• Introduce yourself to team members. When stepping into a new managerial role, it’s essential to introduce yourself to your new team as soon as possible. Meeting everyone allows you to build trust with the group while setting professional expectations for the foreseeable future.
• Set recurring one-on-ones. Regularly checking in with individual team members gives you a chance to provide feedback, praise them for their strengths and address any potential roadblocks. This way, you can discuss any issues regularly and work together to overcome obstacles.
• Align team and company goals. Aligning team goals with the company’s overall objectives helps set your project’s pace. Additionally, when employees know what you expect from them, they’ll have clear professional goals to achieve. These goals can give them a sense of how their work contributes to the company’s success.
• Set measurable benchmarks for team performance. Setting metrics for your team’s performance is good for everyone. Team performance goals can help employees set achievable professional goals. Team goals also give you an easy way to determine when an employee is struggling with their tasks.
• Maintain transparency about company decisions. As a manager, you’re privy to more leadership decisions than your employees. However, keeping these decisions to yourself and changing your team’s workflow without explanation can cause employees to disengage from their work. Instead, be as open and honest as is allowed about company policy shifts. This way, you build trust with your team even if the changes you have to make are difficult. 

How can you grow and develop as a manager? 

You should never feel lost or unsupported when taking on a new role, especially as a leader. Here are three ways you can learn and grow in your new position.

1. Participate in management training.

Every company should offer training before hiring. However, many businesses don’t prioritize management development because of expense or time concerns. Some even reserve these programs only for senior leaders or offer workshops just a few times a year, explained Salomonsen.

“These sessions may be rewarding and inspiring, but they rarely make an impact on day-to-day work,” she said. “Moreover, sending every new manager to a management seminar their first week on the job is prohibitively expensive for most companies.”

Internal training is another option that’s especially suitable for small businesses. Host a few sessions with company experts or managers to run through the basics. Often, employees are promoted to a management role, so they already understand company standards and expectations.

2. Utilize microlearning methods.

Microlearning is a popular training method for small businesses. It’s quick, intensive and collaborative. This way, managers learn all they need to know in short bursts without feeling overwhelmed.

“With microlearning, both new and experienced managers can access digestible lessons that focus on the critical behaviors they need to perform their best, right in the course of their day-to-day work,” Salomonsen added. “Done right, a microlearning approach allows managers to quickly put new knowledge into practice, and gradually improve their habits and skills over time.”

Microlearning is efficient and far more affordable than extensive training programs.

3. Work with mentors and L&D partners.

Working with a mentor or learning and development (L&D) partner can set up new managers for success by providing support and expert knowledge.

“Each person is different, and every new manager has their own areas of growth in the early days of their new role,” Salomonsen said. “Whether they need to develop their interpersonal skills, time-management skills, strategic planning skills or leadership approach, they will need support from senior colleagues. … Finding a management mentor or L&D partner early can help set a strong foundation for the new manager’s development in their role.”

Keep an open mind about colleagues, friends and professional connections, and network as much as possible. Once you work with someone who can guide you through the beginning process, you’ll feel more confident in your role.

“Everybody needs a mentor,” added Brett Helling, owner of Gigworker.com and Ridester. “Find one and discuss the problems you are facing. Having a mentor or someone with expertise is the clear indication of growth within yourself.” 

Spring is in the air! It’s time to open the windows and let warm breezes freshen up homes that have been battened down for winter. Spring is always a good time to take stock of what has accumulated in your life and clean the world around you — take donation runs, prepare your garden, and vacuum out your car.

It is also a good idea to tidy up your digital world, both to simplify your life and to tighten your security. While 46% of the respondents of a 2021 Consumer Privacy Survey done by Cisco said they “feel they are unable to effectively protect their data,” you don’t have to be one of the people who feel uncertain of how to manage their online presence this spring. Here are some practical tips to prepare your personal data and devices for a season of travel and adventure:

1. Get in the habit of turning off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth while in public.

Public Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are both greatly convenient and terribly unsecured. Always consider if you need to utilize these free services, since you never know who else has access to the network. Do not utilize public Wi-Fi to access sensitive work information, or your own personal private data such as banking information. If possible, use a VPN or create a mobile hot spot with your phone to avoid using a public network, and keep your phone’s Bluetooth and Wi-Fi options turned off when they are not actively in use.

2. Go through your devices and delete applications that you are not using.

Not only are these applications cluttering up your desktop and taking up space on your phone, but they are additional services that may have access to your personal data and thus can be compromised.

3. Update the applications you are using.

New updates to apps and operating systems are not only about having the shiniest software features available; these updates include security patches for new cyber threats. Having up-to-date applications mitigates many vulnerabilities that could leave you susceptible to cyberattacks.

4. Check on your privacy settings.

Every application you use will have different privacy settings, and will request to access different information. Take a bit of time to see which apps are tracking your location, have access to your photos or calendar, or can view your contact directory. Limit the data the apps can use, especially taking into account their purpose and which permissions they need to function. The National Cyber Security Alliance has compiled collection of helpful information to guide you in updating the privacy settings of your accounts.

5. Check your password hygiene.

Utilize unique passwords for each account you maintain. Do not re-use passwords. Do not store them in one easy to access online document, or a sticky note on your work computer. To check whether your passwords have been exposed in any breaches, reference a site like Have I Been Pwned. If the password has been in a breach, do not use it again. Consider using a password manager — a password storage option that protects all of your passwords and passphrases, and may even create unique passwords and alert you when they have been breached.

6. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) whenever possible.

According to figures cited by US National Cyber Security Chief in 2021, the use of MFA could prevent between 80% and 90% of cyber attacks. Here at DriveStrike, we highly encourage the use of MFA whenever possible. Something as simple as having an SMS message sent with a one-time code can save you a world of grief. Services like Google and Proton Mail offer MFA, as well as many healthcare portals, insurance portals, and other online services. Check wherever your data is stored to see if you can enable this effective safeguard.

7. Invest in the security of your hardware.

Companies can have the luxury of IT Departments and security guards monitoring their office complexes, but the average household can take steps to protect their devices and WiFi networks without a team of professional security analysts. Actions as simple as putting devices away in a locked cabinet when not in use, securing your home router, opting for an economical software to track and remotely lock cell phones and computers, or taking the steps to secure your home office can make a massive difference when it comes to personal data security.

8. Finally, make data security a habit.

Storage and data statistics show that “public and private cloud infrastructure will receive 200+ zettabytes (ZB) of data by 2025”. Our household devices are connected via WiFi and Bluetooth both to us and to each other, and that is only expected to grow in a world increasingly investing in systems and technologies that expand the Internet of Things (IoT) into every aspect of the modern world. Understanding this reality does not mean you have to live in fear, burn your cell phone, and move into an underground bunker. Being aware of the risks allows you to make smart choices with your online footprint, and make healthy choices when weighing the trade offs between convenience and cyber security.

Spring is a time of new beginnings and fresh starts; a perfect time to reassess and freshen up your data security actions and attitudes. There is no escaping the fact that our world is going increasingly digital. Be aware of vulnerabilities and threats, and takes steps like the ones above to be vigilant. Remember, your information is yours. Teach yourself to view it as such, and protect it as would any other possession.

As a business owner, you must account for and manage several types of expenses in order to keep your operations running. Categorizing these expenses can help you effectively plan your finances, maintain an organized record of all transactions, and file taxes with ease. Understanding the key business expense categories can also make it easier to identify what is and isn’t tax deductible.

In this article, we will discuss what these small business expenses are, how to categorize them, and how expense tracking can benefit your business. 

Key Takeaways

• Key expense categories for small businesses include utilities, insurance, and taxes. 
• When categorizing and tracking expenses, business owners should consider setting up a separate bank account and using tracking software or apps.
• Tracking business expenses can offer several benefits including better preparing you for tax season and providing strategic opportunities for budget planning and tax deductions. 

What Are Tax-Deductible Business Expenses?

Tax-deductible business expenses, or “tax write-offs,” are costs that business owners can deduct from their total revenue to determine their taxable income. In essence, tax-deductible business expenses can reduce the amount of taxes you have to pay for operating and profiting from your business. 

Here are some key examples of tax-deductible expenses:

• Business use of home and/or car
• Direct labor
• Taxes
• Office or storage facility rent 
• Insurance payments
• Utilities like phone bills, internet service, etc. 

Small Business Expense Categories

Categorizing business expenses can make it easier to identify deductible items and file tax returns. Here are the main deductible expenses for small businesses to keep in mind. 

Taxes

Business-related tax expenses like state and local sales tax, state and local income tax, personal property tax, and excise tax may be deductible. 

Utilities and Rent 

Expenses paid for utilities necessary for your business to remain operational can be deductible. These expenses can include your telephone, internet, and electricity bills, and rent paid for your office and additional storage space.

Note

If you work from home and use a home office setup, you can include the cost of a computer, mobile data plan, office chair, work desk, and similar expenses for tax deductions.

Insurance

The ordinary and necessary cost of insurance can be deducted as a business expense if it is specifically for your business or trade. Examples of tax-deductible insurance expenses include insurance premiums, general and professional liability insurance, commercial property insurance, and data breach insurance. 

Vehicle Expenses 

If you use a car or a similar vehicle for business purposes, cost of ownership and operations can be tax deductible. More specifically, the cost of gas, mileage from business use, parking fees and tolls, and depreciation (though there are certain criteria for the latter) can be considered deductible expenses.  

Compensation

The wages you pay your employees or contractors for direct labor can count as a deductible business expense. 

How To Categorize Small Business Expenses

Categorizing business expenses can be helpful, but it may feel challenging and overwhelming if you have never filed business taxes before. Whether you are a new business owner creating efficient systems for expense tracking, or a seasoned entrepreneur looking to change your financial records system, here are some ways to categorize small business expenses. 

Set Up a Separate Expense Account 

Setting up a separate bank account for handling specific business expenses can make tracking easier. For example, you can pay all your phone, internet, and electricity bills through a separate “Utilities” account. 

Use Online Apps and Software

User-friendly (and often free) tracking apps and software can streamline the expense tracking and tax calculating process for small business owners. Instead of having to manually add to and maintain a spreadsheet or sort through a pen-and-paper trail of transactions, business owners can have an automated system to create invoice and expense reports, track expenses and time, and easily look up financial records and data.

Note

Examples of expense tracking software include SAP Concur, Expensify, Quickbooks, and Mint. 

Why You Should Track Business Expenses

Tracking business expenses can help you in the following ways:

• Expense tracking helps you identify tax-deductible expenses and gets you better prepared for tax season.
• A well-maintained transaction record can come in handy during business audits and inspections. 
• Regularly tracking business expenses can help you determine how you are doing financially, your business’s potential for profitability, and what needs to change. 
• Expense tracking helps you categorize and organize all the financial data essential to keep the business running. 
• Tracking business expenses also helps you budget effectively and find external funding if required. 

Note

Remember to keep records of business expenses and other business paperwork even after you file your taxes.

Gone are the days of finicky spreadsheets, yellow pages, and scratch paper to-do lists. Modern technology makes most things much easier, and owning a home is no exception. There are plenty of mobile apps available that can help homeowners make the ins and outs of owning a home a little bit simpler. Whether you need help organizing maintenance schedules or picking the perfect color for your walls, you can bet there’s an app for that.

Owning a home presents a lot of unique challenges. While many of these apps can be used by anyone, they are particularly helpful for homeowners. You can use apps to track household inventory, manage smart home features, help your lawn and garden thrive, handle home repairs, or even plan a full-scale renovation.

Under My Roof

Under My Roof is a mobile app that aims to help users organize their homes. It is geared toward people who have trouble keeping track of all the little details that come with owning a home. The app is also designed for those who want to ensure they have everything needed to file an insurance claim in the event of a disaster, such as a flood or fire. “After losing a small cabin to a wildfire,” one reviewer explained on the App Store, “my insurance company wanted a detailed inventory list before paying out on the contents portion of the policy. Needless to say, that task was difficult since I had to rely on memory and some photos … They are now scanned documents in the app … this is the only meaningful full-featured app for home contents.”

Under My Roof is a bit of a multi-tool. The app allows you to track household supply inventory, maintenance schedules, repair and renovation history, and collections (like movies or board games) as well as general information for everything you own, including warranties, purchase dates, and manuals. The app is free to download, though there is a 10-item limit for the free version. To unlock the full version, you can subscribe for $34.99 per year or $4.99 per month. This app is for iPhone, iPad, and Mac only.

Planta

Planta is an app that helps homeowners care for their gardens and houseplants. It is designed for those who love the luscious garden look but can’t seem to keep their plants alive. The app has a robust AI feature that helps users diagnose problems with their plants and create tailored care routines. “I used to be discouraged from having plants because I knew I would forget to care for [them] and have [them] die,” one user said on the Google Play store. “This app makes it easier to remember when to water, mist, add fertilizer, etc. It can even diagnose issues with your plant with their Dr. Planta feature [and] provide solutions.”

Planta works with both indoor and outdoor plants and can create a detailed care plan tailored to your home and garden. This includes watering reminders that account for local weather and climate, as well as more than 30 other parameters. The app will also send you reminders for routine plant care, such as fertilizing and misting — all personalized for your specific plants and location. It can also help you to identify plants you don’t know, and includes a space for a plant journal. The app can even use your phone’s built-in camera as a light meter to help you decide which locations are suitable for which plants. It runs on a subscription-based fee system and costs $47.99 per year. Planta can be used with both iOS and Android.

Frontdoor

Frontdoor connects homeowners with pre-qualified home-repair technicians via live video chat to assist with maintenance and repair issues. It’s designed for homeowners who feel comfortable with DIY home-repair tasks but don’t know where to start when that leaky faucet is staring them in the face. “This app is absolutely worth having for anyone — rent or own,” one reviewer said on the Google Play store. “We saved a ton of money on fixing the furnace on a holiday weekend. The app was easy to navigate, he was patient and professional, and walked me [through] every step, including helping me grab the correct tools out of my toolbox.”

Beyond the video chats with home-repair experts, Frontdoor also includes a library of how-to tips as well as a list of vetted professionals in your area who can come out and help if you are unable to fix the problem yourself. The app has experts available to help with tasks like electrical issues, HVAC, everyday appliance repairs, and plumbing. The free tier comes with one free chat, along with access to the library of how-to articles and several discounts on home essentials. The premium version of the app is $149 per year and comes with unlimited video chat sessions and more extensive discounts. Frontdoor works on both iOS and Android.

Sweepy

Keeping a clean home is easier said than done. Household chores are just one of those things that never seem to end — finish washing the final dish, and a new stack inevitably appears the moment you turn your back. There are plenty of cleaning hacks to keep your home tidy, but sometimes you just need that extra push. Sweepy is an app that helps homeowners keep their homes clean and organized and provides motivation by turning cleaning into a game among family members.

Sweepy automatically generates a cleaning schedule for your home based on the parameters you set, including how much you can clean each day. It also lets you split chores among household members so everyone can compete for the top spot on the household leaderboard. The premium version is priced at $3.99 per month or $19.99 per year. There is a free tier that allows you to manually create a cleaning routine with pre-added tasks or custom tasks, but it doesn’t include the automatically generated schedule or gamified elements. Sweepy is available for both iOS and Android.

iScape

Hoping to tackle some landscaping projects to boost home value? Landscaping your own home can be a bit intimidating, especially when you have a vision but don’t know where to start. The iScape app helps homeowners design and preview landscaping plans before breaking ground on a new project. It is unique because it uses augmented reality to let you experiment with different options before ever picking up a shovel.

To use the augmented reality feature, users can take a photo of their yard and then browse the app’s database to add plants and hardscaping elements directly to the photo. This creates a 2D model of their landscaping plans. From there, you can make a complete inventory of materials needed to bring your vision to life. The app has a limited free tier that allows users to make and save up to two designs and includes some access to the app’s database and other features. For $29.99 per month or $299.99 per year, you get full access to iScape’s database and features, a proposal tool, and the ability to upload your own images. The apps work on both iOS and Android.

Houzz

Houzz is a home design app that allows you to browse for renovation and design inspo. The app is geared toward homeowners who like Pinterest but want something more focused on design and that connects them directly with local professionals. “This app has given me wonderful ideas for organizing, decorating, remodeling, and even gardening,” one reviewer said on the Google Play store. “It is so enjoyable to read about home decor and how others have remodeled on a tight budget.”

The Houzz app allows users to explore and save design inspiration ideas, find local professionals, and view products using the “View in My Room 3D” feature, an augmented reality tool that works with a phone camera to see what products will look like in a particular home. The app is free for homeowners and works for both iOS and Android.

Itemtopia

If you have a home, you probably have a lot of stuff in it. Itemtopia allows homeowners to track and organize information for all of their belongings. Users can inventory everything they own and add information such as receipts, warranties, insurance policies, and other important documents. “After using this app for over a year, I can honestly say I’ve never had this kind of excellent support from a developer,” a reviewer said on the Google Play store. “The app itself is a fantastic collection of superb capabilities to track everything about my home assets for both insurance purposes, but more importantly to me, being able to find things that I have tucked away somewhere and prevent me from buying duplicates of things I already own.”

This app is a great way to manage your belongings. Users can track the location of an item (like when you let someone borrow something), how much it’s worth, add photos and videos, and more. There is also an AI feature that allows users to ask questions about their belongings, including how to fix or maintain them and what their current value is. The app has a robust free version. Purchasing a premium subscription adds the ability to print QR codes and export data. Itemtopia works with both iOS and Android.

Color Portfolio

Color Portfolio by Benjamin Moore allows homeowners to see what paint colors will look like in real photos of their home. It can also match your favorite colors to Benjamin Moore paints, so you never have to wonder what shade to use for your room again.

Color Portfolio has a virtual library of Benjamin Moore colors. With the app, you can virtually “try on” colors using a photo of a room in your home. The app is free to use, though there is a physical tool (called a ColorReader or ColorReader Pro) that is available for purchase to use with the app. The ColorReader tool allows users to get a more precise match than is possible with photos alone. Color Portfolio is available on both iOS and Android.

Nextdoor

Nextdoor is an app that connects neighborhoods, allowing neighbors to get safety alerts, get together for events, share favorite local spots, buy and sell items, and more. “Nextdoor is a great neighborhood network that truly brings communities together,” one reviewer said on the Google Play store. “It makes it easy to stay connected with neighbors, share important updates, ask for recommendations, and support one another. The platform creates a sense of trust and belonging by focusing on real local connections.”

The app is essentially a neighborhood-specific social media platform. It provides neighbors with a feed of news stories from local publishers, local safety alerts, and a place to share and learn about local favorites — things like where to hike, favorite coffee shops and hangouts, and even trusted local professionals like babysitters or electricians. There is also a marketplace where neighbors can list items they would like to sell or give away for free, and a calendar for neighborhood social events like BBQs and other gatherings. Nextdoor is free to download and join. It is available for both iOS and Android users.

Photo Measures

There are many reasons to keep measurements on hand if you own a home. Digging through the notes app in your phone in the aisle of a store when you need to know if a piece of furniture will fit in that one empty spot can be time-consuming and stressful. Photos Measures allows homeowners to take photos of rooms, furniture items, or anything that needs to be measured. From there, you can add measurements directly to the photo itself for easy reference.

“[Photo Measures] allows you to directly lay measurements on top of existing photos, which not only looks more professional; it also helps with intricate details that would otherwise have been missed or misinterpreted,” one user said in their review on the Google Play store. “I highly recommend this app! It’s easy to use and to understand, while also having several tools available to you in a streamlined and intuitive package.” The measurement photos can be saved in the app or exported as a PDF or JPEG file and then printed or shared. Photo Measures is a $4.99 one-time purchase on Google Play or $6.99 in the App Store.

ToolBox

Can’t find your tool kit? Why not turn your phone into a pocket-sized toolbox? Though they may not replace the real thing, many phone apps work just fine in a pinch when you need to finish that perfect gallery wall and your level is nowhere to be found. ToolBox is a five-in-one carpenter kit for your iPhone or iPad. This is useful for homeowners doing projects in their homes, like renovations or even just hanging pictures.

The app gives you a bubble level, a bullseye level, a protractor, a plumb bob, and an AR ruler. It is useful for simple projects around the home, like hanging pictures, leveling shelves, measuring angles, and checking the verticality of furniture. The premium version is 99 cents per month or $7.99 for a one-time purchase. The free version allows access to the bubble level only. ToolBox is available for Apple users.

Home Assistant

There are a million ways to make your home a smart home, but how do you keep track of them all once you’ve started accumulating devices? Home Assistant is an open-source smart home hub designed for this purpose. This companion app allows users to access and control smart home devices from multiple brands remotely. 

With Home Assistant, you have access to all your smart home features without having to jump from branded app to branded app. This allows you to automate heating, manage security, detect leaks or a door left open, check battery levels, control lights, and more from a single central hub. The app connects with a Home Assistant account and is open source and free. It’s available in both the App Store and the Google Play store.

My Lawn

Maintaining the perfect lawn can feel like a Herculean task — especially when there are so many recommended tools for healthy green grass. For many homeowners, it can be hard to know where to start. My Lawn is a lawn care app from Scotts that lets you create customized lawn care plans, diagnose and fix problems, track water use, and learn tips for growing the best lawn possible.

My Lawn can help you decide which products you need to keep your lawn healthy and weed-free, and tell you when to apply them. The app can also help you calculate the size of your lawn, so that you know how much of each product you need to apply. It also lets you track water usage and has a library of lawn care tips. The app is free to use and works with both iOS and Android. Scotts lawn care products can be purchased directly through the app.

Basements offer a coveted, spacious area to relax and spend time with your family. Whether you choose to make this space into a game room or a home theater, it can be challenging to make the lower level of your home feel truly cozy. Basement rooms tend to be notably colder than the rest of a house, and you might wonder if it’s normal how frigid this space can feel. We spoke to a home heating and cooling expert to get the inside scoop on why a basement might be cold and how to keep your home warm and cozy.

“Basements tend to be a naturally cold place within the home because they’re typically constructed with concrete, which absorbs and retains cold — especially during the winter months — and they often lack sufficient insulation to prevent heat loss,” Steve Clemente, president and COO of One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, shared with House Digest in an exclusive interview.

There are a lot of factors that can play into why a basement might be cold. To tackle this issue, it’s vital to understand these causes and rule out any potential underlying issues. “Cold air also naturally sinks, while warmer, lighter air rises, leaving lower levels of the home like basements and ground floors feeling noticeably cooler than upper levels,” Clemente emphasized. “Basement temperature issues can also be tied to broader home comfort challenges, including reduced HVAC performance caused by blocked vents or filters, as well as leaks or damage within the ductwork.”

When is a cold basement an issue?

There is no need for immediate concern if your basement is cold. Most basements will be a bit cooler than the rest of your home. There are, however, certain factors that may raise concern. Structural and HVAC issues are problems you should rule out to ensure your space is truly just a normal, cold basement.

“If a basement is simply naturally cold, and there are no structural concerns such as cracks in the foundation or insulation gaps, and the home’s HVAC system is operating efficiently, homeowners who don’t mind the lower temperature may not need to take action,” expert Steve Clemente shared exclusively with House Digest. “However, if the cold temperature is caused by structural concerns, blocked vents or filters, leaks within the ductwork, or other HVAC inefficiencies and damage, it’s important to address the issue.”

If you have an HVAC issue in your basement, this will impact your entire home. You may be dealing with a larger efficiency issue that you’ll need to consult a professional about as soon as possible. Clemente warned that failing to address HVAC problem can lead to “higher energy bills, humidity and air quality issues, frozen pipes, and even system breakdowns.”

How to address issues with a cold basement

HVAC professional Steve Clemente explained exclusively to House Digest, “To ensure the home’s HVAC system is operating safely and efficiently, and there are no larger home comfort concerns at play, homeowners should schedule a seasonal evaluation with a trained technician … An HVAC technician can inspect your system’s vents and filters to ensure they’re clean and unblocked, assess ductwork for leaks or damage, and address any other issues that may be preventing the system from heating the lower levels of the home effectively.”

Once a trained professional rules out any pressing issues such as air leaks or foundation cracks, you can explore other solutions if you want a warmer basement. For instance, you can have a professional add or extend registers for more efficient heating. You can also opt for a good old-fashioned space heater. However, Clemente warned that while they require no professional installation, they can be less energy efficient for larger spaces and can’t be left on for long stretches of time. 

Luckily, there are other easy ways to heat a basement without an electrical space heater. “Sealing cracks along the foundation of the home and adding or improving existing installation are other cost-effective steps that can help prevent heat loss and make a noticeable difference in basement temperature levels,” Clemente explained. He went on to mention pellet stoves as another type of energy-efficient, low-maintenance heating solution to explore

Market ups and downs are a normal part of investing. But once you hit retirement, those swings feel a lot riskier—especially when you’re pulling money out of your portfolio. That’s where a volatility buffer comes in.

Think of it as a backup plan that gives you income during market downturns. A properly designed volatility buffer strategy can help you maintain steady income during bear markets—without having to sell investments at a loss.

In this post, we’ll break down what a volatility buffer is, how it works, and why it could be the safety net your retirement plan needs.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Sequence of returns risk can derail your retirement if losses hit early.
• A volatility buffer provides stable income during market downturns.
• Common buffer tools: cash, short-term bonds, annuities, IULs, and more.
• Set clear triggers for when to use and refill your buffer.
• Diversification or bonds alone aren’t enough—buffers add protection.

The Problem: Sequence of Returns Risk

When you’re saving for retirement, average market returns matter. But when you’re withdrawing money in retirement, the order of those returns matters even more.

This is called sequence of returns risk—and it can crush a retirement portfolio if poor market performance hits early on. Even if your long-term average return is the same, bad timing in the early years can cause your savings to run dry far too soon.

Research shows that:

• Retirees who face negative returns in the first 5 years of retirement are over 30% more likely to deplete their assets prematurely than those who face losses later.
• For a 60/40 portfolio withdrawing 4% annually, starting retirement during a bear market can reduce the success rate of the plan by 20–25%.

That’s why a strategy like a volatility buffer isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential protection against bad timing.

What Is a Volatility Buffer?

A volatility buffer, as the phrase suggests, is a buffer against market volatility—a financial cushion that helps retirees weather market downturns without derailing their income plan.

Instead of selling investments at a loss, you pull from this buffer to maintain income and give your portfolio time to recover.

A volatility buffer can:

• 💸 Keep your income steady during market dips
• 🚫 Prevent selling investments at a loss
• 📉 Reduce the risk of running out of money
• 🛡️ Protect your long-term retirement plan

It’s a simple strategy with powerful results—especially when combined with a well-thought-out withdrawal strategy.

Types of Volatility Buffers

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to building a buffer for retirement income stability. It’s about choosing reliable, non-market-correlated assets that you can lean on during rocky times. Common types include:

1. 💵 Cash Reserves – High-yield savings accounts represent the most straightforward buffer option. They offer FDIC protection up to $250,000 per account, complete liquidity, and competitive interest rates that often adjust with Federal Reserve policy changes. The primary advantages include safety, accessibility, and simplicity.
2. 📄 Short-Term Bonds or Bond Ladders – Short-term bonds are a popular choice for a volatility buffer since they’re less sensitive to interest rate changes than long-term bonds. A bond ladder takes this further by spreading investments across staggered maturities—like one, two, and three years—providing regular access to cash for income or reinvestment.
3. 🛡️ Fixed Indexed Annuities – FIAs offer principal protection with the potential for market-linked growth. Your principal is guaranteed by the insurer, while returns are based on index performance. As part of the evolution of annuities, FIAs blend traditional income guarantees with modern market-linked growth—making them a smart fit for long-term volatility buffer strategies.
4. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Cash Value Life Insurance – An IUL for retirement builds cash value that can be accessed tax-free through policy loans, offering a tax-efficient buffer during market downturns. This allows you to borrow against the policy without triggering taxes, while still maintaining a death benefit and insurance coverage.
5. 🏡 Reverse Mortgages – For retirees with substantial home equity, a reverse mortgage line of credit offers a unique buffer strategy. It provides tax-free access to cash without selling your home or adding monthly payments. While not for everyone, it’s a valuable option to consider as part of your retirement toolkit.

How to Use a Volatility Buffer in Retirement

A volatility buffer isn’t just about having extra cash—it’s about knowing exactly when and how to use it to cover expenses in retirement and protect your long-term income plan.

To make the most of your buffer, set up activation triggers—specific conditions that tell you when to pause portfolio withdrawals and use your buffer instead. Then, just as importantly, define recovery triggers to guide when to return to normal withdrawals.

🧭 Set Clear Activation Triggers

Having rules in place removes the guesswork and helps you act rationally during emotionally charged market events. Here are three types of triggers to consider:

1. 📉 Market-Based Triggers: Use your buffer when the market experiences a significant drop. Examples:
   • Major index (e.g., S&P 500) declines 10% or more
   • Market enters official bear market territory (down 20% or more)
   • 3-month rolling average return is negative

Why it works:
Protects you from selling stocks during deep downturns and gives your portfolio time to recover.

2. 📊 Portfolio-Based Triggers: Base it on the value or condition of your personal retirement accounts. Examples:
   • Your total portfolio falls 10%+ from its last high
   • Your equity allocation drops below a pre-set threshold
   • Your withdrawal rate (as a % of remaining assets) jumps above 5–6%

Why it works:
Customizes the trigger to your personal situation, not just market headlines.

3. 💵 Income Need Triggers: Use your buffer when your portfolio can’t safely meet your income needs without exceeding a sustainable withdrawal rate. Examples:
   • Your planned withdrawal for the year exceeds 4–5% of your portfolio
   • Market returns + income needs = projected shortfall

Why it works:
Ensures you maintain a sustainable drawdown rate over the long haul.

🟢 When to Resume Normal Withdrawals

Just as important as knowing when to activate your buffer is knowing when to switch back to your portfolio.

Recovery Triggers:

• Markets have regained pre-decline levels
• Your portfolio balance has recovered to a target value
• Positive returns resume over a 3–6 month period

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💡 Need Help Creating Your Volatility Buffer?

Creating the right volatility buffer strategy starts with knowing your income needs, risk exposure, and available tools.

A licensed financial professional can help you evaluate your options, and design a plan that protects your income through every market cycle.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

How Much Should You Set Aside?

A common guideline is to hold 1 to 3 years’ worth of retirement income in your buffer. But the exact amount depends on:

• Your monthly income needs
• How much guaranteed income you already have (Social Security, pensions, annuities)
• Your risk tolerance and market exposure
• Whether you’re early or late in retirement

Common Misconceptions

• “I’m diversified. I don’t need a buffer.” – Diversification helps, but it doesn’t eliminate sequence of returns risk. You still need a plan for where to pull money from when markets are down.
• “Bonds are enough.” – Not necessarily. Bond values can drop too, especially in rising interest rate environments. A true volatility buffer includes safe, liquid, and stable assets.
• “Volatility buffers are only for conservative investors.” – Buffers benefit all investors by giving their riskier assets space to recover. Even aggressive investors can benefit from strategic reserves.
• “I’ll just cut spending if the market crashes.” – That sounds good in theory—but in practice, most retirees have fixed expenses. A buffer gives you flexibility without forcing uncomfortable lifestyle changes.

Final Thoughts: Build Your Buffer Before You Need It

The early years of retirement are the most vulnerable. And the best time to build your buffer is before you need it. Don’t wait for a downturn to find out your plan wasn’t as resilient as you thought.

A volatility buffer isn’t just a backup plan—it’s a proactive strategy to protect your income, preserve your portfolio, and give you the confidence to stick with your plan through any market cycle. It can mean the difference between running out of money and riding out the storm.

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Retirement has changed. Are you prepared? Learn how to build lasting and reliable income.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use my volatility buffer?

Use your buffer when the market is down significantly or your portfolio has lost value—especially if withdrawing from investments would lock in losses. Look for activation triggers like a 10%+ market decline or a spike in your withdrawal rate.

What’s the difference between a volatility buffer and an emergency fund?

An emergency fund is typically for unexpected expenses, while a volatility buffer is a planned reserve designed to replace income during market downturns. Both are important, but they serve different purposes.

Do I need a volatility buffer if I have a pension or annuity?

If your guaranteed income sources (like pensions, Social Security, or annuities) cover most or all of your expenses, you may need a smaller buffer—or none at all. But if you rely heavily on investments, a buffer is highly recommended.

Are volatility buffers only for the wealthy?

No. Volatility buffers benefit retirees at all wealth levels. In fact, they may be even more important for middle-income retirees, who have less margin for error. Whether you have $500,000 or $2 million saved, a buffer provides critical flexibility and protection when you need it most.

In 2010, Thomas Thwaites decided he wanted to build a toaster from scratch. He walked into a shop, purchased the cheapest toaster he could find, and promptly went home and broke it down piece by piece.

Thwaites had assumed the toaster would be a relatively simple machine. By the time he was finished deconstructing it, however, there were more than 400 components laid out on his floor. The toaster contained over 100 different materials with three of the primary ones being plastic, nickel, and steel.

He decided to create the steel components first. After discovering that iron ore was required to make steel, Thwaites called up an iron mine in his region and asked if they would let him use some for the project.

Surprisingly, they agreed.

The Toaster Project

The victory was short-lived.

When it came time to create the plastic case for his toaster, Thwaites realized he would need crude oil to make the plastic. This time, he called up BP and asked if they would fly him out to an oil rig and lend him some oil for the project. They immediately refused. It seems oil companies aren’t nearly as generous as iron mines.

Thwaites had to settle for collecting plastic scraps and melting them into the shape of his toaster case. This is not as easy as it sounds. The homemade toaster ended up looking more like a melted cake than a kitchen appliance.

This pattern continued for the entire span of The Toaster Project. It was nearly impossible to move forward without the help of some previous process. To create the nickel components, for example, he had to resort to melting old coins. He would later say, “I realized that if you started absolutely from scratch you could easily spend your life making a toaster.”

Don’t Start From Scratch

Starting from scratch is usually a bad idea.

Too often, we assume innovative ideas and meaningful changes require a blank slate. When business projects fail, we say things like, “Let’s go back to the drawing board.” When we consider the habits we would like to change, we think, “I just need a fresh start.” However, creative progress is rarely the result of throwing out all previous ideas and innovations and completely re-imagining of the world.

Consider an example from nature:

Some experts believe the feathers of birds evolved from reptilian scales. Through the forces of evolution, scales gradually became small feathers, which were used for warmth and insulation at first. Eventually, these small fluffs developed into larger feathers capable of flight.

There wasn’t a magical moment when the animal kingdom said, “Let’s start from scratch and create an animal that can fly.” The development of flying birds was a gradual process of iterating and expanding upon ideas that already worked.

The process of human flight followed a similar path. We typically credit Orville and Wilbur Wright as the inventors of modern flight. However, we seldom discuss the aviation pioneers who preceded them like Otto Lilienthal, Samuel Langley, and Octave Chanute. The Wright brothers learned from and built upon the work of these people during their quest to create the world’s first flying machine.

The most creative innovations are often new combinations of old ideas. Innovative thinkers don’t create, they connect. Furthermore, the most effective way to make progress is usually by making 1 percent improvements to what already works rather than breaking down the whole system and starting over.

Iterate, Don’t Originate

The Toaster Project is an example of how we often fail to notice the complexity of our modern world. When you buy a toaster, you don’t think about everything that has to happen before it appears in the store. You aren’t aware of the iron being carved out of the mountain or the oil being drawn up from the earth.

We are mostly blind to the remarkable interconnectedness of things. This is important to understand because in a complex world it is hard to see which forces are working for you as well as which forces are working against you. Similar to buying a toaster, we tend to focus on the final product and fail to recognize the many processes leading up to it.

When you are dealing with a complex problem, it is usually better to build upon what already works. Any idea that is currently working has passed a lot of tests. Old ideas are a secret weapon  because they have already managed to survive in a complex world.

Iterate, don’t originate.