What kinds of records do you need to keep in order to help you manage a home successfully?

Housing:

It's good to keep records for your mortgage and taxes when you own a home. With advancements in technology, there are so many other ways to keep track of records besides the old-fashioned paper way if that's not your style. For example, using auto pay tools online is a good way to keep up with payments.  You could also look into apps that could be downloaded on your phones, iPads, or laptops. Keep in mind renting usually doesn't require you to keep that many records. 

Utilities:

Come up with a good system for keeping your utility payments in check! Family, roommates or living alone it will help when it comes to paying things on time. You should keep records for repairs and installation of your household appliances. You could do a folder that has your bills such as water, gas electricity receipts. But if you're renting, a lot of times utilities are already included! 

Taxes:

“Keep an accurate record of all another spending; you might need to reference later in order to deduct it from your taxes. It is important to know where all your money goes, especially at the end of the year when you need to file a tax return” (Barry Clancy). A good way o do this is by using a program called Quicken! It helps balance your checkbooks and records of important papers that the IRS may need. (Colin Miller). 

Finances:

It's also important to be aware of all of your other finances and economize your spending. Whether it be leisurely activities, food, or clothing you should always be aware of your spending and checking your account constantly. Another great way to keep track of it is by using a site called Mint. "[It] links to your bank accounts, can code every transaction, set a budget, see how you are tracking and adjust your finances" (Lorenzo Caldwell). Also in the future, if possible investing in a financial adviser could also be a smart move if you have multiple estates. 

This page was developed from interviews with:

Felix Clansy, Tammy Lewis, Cindy Adams, Lee Fowles, Dolly Nabokov, Barry Clancy, Colin Miller, Michael Lee, Lorenzo Caldwell