Blog - Home Management Tips and Guides

Technology Jul 2026

Hint App Launch: What Martha Stewart's Home App Does

Martha Stewart's Hint app launches this week. Here's what the AI home management platform actually does, what it leaves out, and who it fits.

Insurance Jul 2026

Hint App and Home Insurance: What It Can and Can't Do

Martha Stewart's Hint app is moving into home insurance. Here's what it can do for your policy and the claim documentation it won't build for you.

Technology Jul 2026

Is the Hint App Free? Pricing and How Hint Makes Money

Hint is free at launch, but it earns affiliate and referral fees from insurers and contractors. Here's what that means for the advice you get.

Technology Jul 2026

Hint vs. Dib: Which Home Management App Should You Use?

Hint launched this week. Dib has been shipping for months. An honest comparison of what each home management app does and which one fits you.

Technology Jul 2026

Hint App on Android: Why It's Missing and What to Use

Hint launched on desktop and iOS with no Android app announced. Here's what Android homeowners can actually use for home management right now.

Technology Jul 2026

Hint App Privacy: What You Agree To When You Sign Up

We read Hint's privacy policy and terms so you don't have to. What the app collects, who it shares with, and the clauses worth knowing first.

Technology Jul 2026

When Home Management Apps Shut Down: Protect Your Data

Centriq deleted a decade of user data in January 2026. What that taught homeowners about exports, lock-in, and picking a home app that will last.

Insurance Jul 2026

Wildfire Risk Score: What It Means for Your Home Insurance

California now requires insurers to disclose your home's wildfire risk score at renewal. Learn what the score measures and how to lower your premium.

Insurance Jul 2026

Hurricane Binding Restrictions: What Homeowners Should Know

Hurricane binding restrictions freeze new home insurance and coverage increases the moment a storm forms. Here's how they work and when to lock in coverage.

Insurance Jul 2026

Wildfire Smoke Damage Insurance Claims: What to Know

Wildfire smoke can damage a home that never burned. Here's how wildfire smoke damage insurance claims work, what's covered, and how to fight a denial.

Insurance Jul 2026

Hail Damage Roof Insurance Claims: How to Get Paid in Full

Insurers are increasingly denying hail roof claims as cosmetic damage. Learn how to document hail damage, fight denials, and get the payout you're owed.

Insurance Jul 2026

Heat Wave Power Outages: What Home Insurance Actually Covers

A record July heat wave cut power to over 100,000 U.S. homes. Here's what home insurance covers for power outage damage, spoiled food, and surges.

Insurance Jun 2026

Home-Based Business Insurance: What Your HO-3 Policy Won't Cover

Running a home-based business? Your HO-3 policy caps equipment coverage at $2,500 and excludes all business liability. Here's how to close the gap.

Insurance Jun 2026

State FAIR Plan Home Insurance: Coverage Gaps and How to Fix Them

State FAIR plan home insurance covers fire and little else. Learn what FAIR plans exclude, why you need a DIC policy, and how to get off the plan.

Insurance Jun 2026

Wind Damage Roof Insurance Claims: Step-by-Step Filing Guide

Wind damage causes more roof insurance claims than any other peril in the U.S. Learn how to document damage, file your claim correctly, and appeal a denial.

Maintenance Jun 2026

Summer Home Maintenance Checklist: 15 Essential June–August Tasks

Your complete summer home maintenance checklist for 2026. HVAC tune-ups, roof inspections, pest control, and 12 more tasks before fall arrives.

Insurance Jun 2026

Named-Storm Deductibles Explained: What Triggers Yours

Hurricane season started June 1. Your named-storm deductible may be 2–5% of your home's value—$10,000 to $25,000—before insurance pays a cent.

Insurance Jun 2026

Vacant Home Insurance: Protecting Your House While You're Away

Most standard homeowners policies void coverage for theft, vandalism, and water damage after 30 days empty. Here's how vacant home insurance closes the gap.

First-Time Buyers May 2026

New Homeowner Checklist: Your First 90 Days After Closing

Just closed on your first home? This new homeowner checklist covers the first 90 days: security, documents, insurance, maintenance budgeting, and more.

Insurance May 2026

Mold Damage Home Insurance: What Your Policy Covers

Mold damage home insurance coverage is conditional, not automatic. Learn what triggers coverage, your sublimit, and steps to protect yourself before a claim.

Insurance May 2026

Lightning Strike Home Damage: Filing Your Insurance Claim

A lightning strike costs homeowners an average of $18,641. Learn what homeowners insurance covers for lightning damage and how to document and win your claim.

Insurance May 2026

Water Backup Coverage: The Rider Your Home Policy Is Missing

Standard home insurance excludes water backup damage. Learn what water backup coverage costs, what it covers, and how to add this rider to your policy today.

Insurance May 2026

Umbrella Insurance for Homeowners: How Much Coverage Do You Need?

Find out how much umbrella insurance homeowners actually need in 2026, what it costs, and which risk factors — from pools to teen drivers — make it essential.

Insurance May 2026

Scheduled Personal Property Insurance: Protect Your Valuables

Learn how scheduled personal property insurance fills the coverage gap for jewelry, art, and valuables your standard homeowners policy shortchanges.

Insurance May 2026

Short-Term Rental Host Insurance: What Airbnb and VRBO Hosts Miss

Short-term rental host insurance: your homeowners policy excludes commercial activity. See which STR policies cover damage, liability, and lost income.

Insurance May 2026

Home Warranty vs. Homeowners Insurance: What Each Really Covers

Home warranty vs. homeowners insurance: learn the key differences, what each covers, what's excluded, and how to decide if you really need both.

Insurance May 2026

Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement Cost Home Insurance Explained

Two-thirds of U.S. homeowners are underinsured. Understand the actual cash value vs replacement cost home insurance difference before your next claim.

Technology May 2026

Martha Stewart's Hint Is Live: What Homeowners Should Do

Martha Stewart's Hint app launched in July 2026. Here's what it does, what it leaves out, and the home-management playbook to run this weekend.

Insurance May 2026

Flood Insurance Documentation Checklist: Before Season Starts

Hurricane season starts June 1. Document your home now for NFIP flood insurance claims. A Proof of Loss is due within 60 days — preparation is everything.

Insurance May 2026

Home Insurance Non-Renewal: What to Do When Your Insurer Drops You

Got a home insurance non-renewal notice? Learn your options in 2026—from shopping admitted carriers to FAIR Plans—before your 30-day window closes.

Insurance Feb 2026

Apartment Home Inventory: A Complete Guide for Renters

Create a comprehensive apartment inventory for renters insurance claims. Learn what to document, how to estimate values, and protect your belongings when you rent.

Organization Feb 2026

Aging in Place: Home Modifications Inventory & Planning Guide

Complete guide to documenting home modifications for aging in place. Learn what to track, how to plan accessibility upgrades, and ensure proper insurance coverage for senior-friendly home features.

Maintenance Feb 2026

Condo Maintenance Checklist: What You're Responsible For (And What HOA Covers)

Complete guide to condo owner maintenance responsibilities. Learn what your HOA covers vs. what you maintain, how to document for insurance, and avoid costly surprises.

Organization Feb 2026

Home Inventory for Divorce: Documenting Marital Assets Fairly

Complete guide to creating a home inventory during divorce proceedings. Learn how to document marital assets fairly, protect your interests, and streamline property division.

Disaster Preparedness Feb 2026

Earthquake Preparedness Home Inventory: Pacific Northwest & Central US Guide

Protect your home from earthquake losses with proper documentation. Learn region-specific insurance requirements, what to secure and document, and how to prepare for seismic events.

Maintenance Feb 2026

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist 2026: Prepare Your Home for Winter

Complete fall home maintenance checklist to prepare your home for winter. Learn essential tasks for gutters, heating, weatherproofing, and how to document maintenance for insurance.

Insurance Feb 2026

Home Inventory After a Theft: Recovery Checklist and Insurance Guide

Complete guide to recovering from a home theft. Learn what to do immediately, how to document stolen items, file police reports, and maximize your insurance claim.

Organization Feb 2026

Home Office Inventory: Document Your Remote Work Setup

Complete guide to documenting your home office for insurance, taxes, and organization. Learn what to track, how to prove value, and protect your work-from-home investment.

Insurance Feb 2026

How to Document Your Smart Home Devices for Insurance

Complete guide to documenting smart home devices for insurance claims. Learn what to track, how to prove value, and ensure your connected home is properly protected.

Technology Feb 2026

Best Smart Home Security Apps for Documentation (2026)

Complete guide to using smart home security apps for home documentation. Learn how to leverage Ring, Nest, Arlo, and other apps to protect your home and support insurance claims.

Disaster Preparedness Feb 2026

Tornado Season Home Inventory: Midwest Preparedness Guide

Protect your Midwest home from tornado losses with proper documentation. Learn regional insurance requirements, storm shelter essentials, and how to ensure your records survive severe weather.

Maintenance Feb 2026

Winter Home Maintenance Checklist 2026: Cold Weather Home Care

Essential winter home maintenance tasks to protect your home from cold weather damage. Learn how to prevent frozen pipes, maintain heating systems, and document for insurance claims.

Technology Jan 2026

Best AI Home Inventory Apps (2026): Complete Guide

AI home inventory apps save 80% of the time vs manual entry. Compare the best AI-powered options for scanning, cataloging, and protecting your belongings.

Disaster Preparedness Jan 2026

California Wildfire Preparedness: The Complete Home Inventory Guide

Protect your California home from wildfire losses with proper documentation. Learn CA-specific insurance requirements, what to photograph, and how cloud backup saves claims.

Moving Jan 2026

Downsizing Checklist: How to Inventory Your Life Before Moving Smaller

Downsizing your home? Learn how to inventory everything you own, decide what to keep, and make the transition easier with this complete guide.

Estate Planning Jan 2026

Estate Planning Home Inventory: What Your Heirs Need to Know

Create a home inventory for estate planning that helps your family. Learn what to document, how to organize it, and how to communicate your wishes.

First-Time Buyers Jan 2026

First-Time Homeowner Organization Guide: Set Up Your Home Management System

New homeowner? Learn how to organize documents, create a home inventory, and set up maintenance schedules in your first 30 days.

Disaster Preparedness Jan 2026

Hurricane Season Home Inventory: Florida & Gulf Coast Preparation Guide

Prepare for hurricane season with proper home documentation. Learn flood vs wind coverage, FEMA requirements, and how to protect your insurance claim.

Landlords Jan 2026

Rental Property Inventory for Landlords: The Complete 2026 Guide

Protect your rental properties with proper move-in/move-out documentation. Learn state requirements, avoid security deposit disputes, and manage multiple units.

Moving Jan 2026

Complete Moving Inventory Checklist (2026): Protect Your Belongings

The ultimate moving inventory checklist to protect your belongings, document condition before movers arrive, and ensure nothing gets lost.

Insurance Jan 2026

What Happens If You Don't Have a Home Inventory? (The Real Cost)

Without a home inventory, insurance claims pay 30-50% less. Learn the real consequences and how to protect yourself before disaster strikes.

Insurance Jan 2026

How to Prove Ownership Without Receipts for Insurance Claims

Lost your receipts? Learn 7 alternative ways to prove ownership for insurance claims, including photos, bank statements, and warranty records.

Insurance Jan 2026

Renters Insurance: Do You Actually Need a Home Inventory?

Yes, renters need home inventories too. Learn why documentation matters for renters insurance claims and how to protect your belongings in any rental.

Organization Jan 2026

Spring Cleaning Checklist 2026: Declutter and Document Your Home

Turn spring cleaning into lasting organization. Learn how to declutter, document what you own, and create a home inventory while you clean.

DIY Projects Jan 2026

Bathroom Refresh: DIY Updates Without a Renovation

Give your bathroom a fresh new look without demolition. These DIY updates work for any budget and skill level.

DIY Projects Jan 2026

Budget Kitchen Updates: Big Impact for Under $500

Transform your kitchen without a renovation. These affordable DIY updates deliver maximum visual impact for minimal investment.

DIY Projects Jan 2026

12 Common Home Repairs Anyone Can Do Themselves

Save money by handling these everyday home repairs yourself. Step-by-step guidance for fixing toilets, doors, faucets, drywall, and more.

DIY Projects Jan 2026

Garage Organization on a Budget: Reclaim Your Space

Transform your cluttered garage into an organized workshop and storage space. Practical DIY solutions that won't break the bank.

Insurance Jan 2026

How to Create a Home Inventory for Insurance Claims (2026 Guide)

A complete step-by-step guide to creating a home inventory that will protect you financially and maximize your insurance claims.

DIY Projects Jan 2026

DIY Outdoor Living Projects to Transform Your Backyard

Create an outdoor space you'll actually use with these achievable DIY projects. From deck maintenance to lighting, here's how to maximize your yard.

DIY Projects Jan 2026

10 Weekend DIY Projects Any Homeowner Can Tackle

Satisfying home improvement projects you can complete in a weekend, even with minimal experience. Includes time estimates, costs, and step-by-step overviews.

Maintenance Jan 2026

Home Maintenance Schedule: Month-by-Month Checklist for 2026

Your complete month-by-month home maintenance calendar. Never miss a filter change, seasonal task, or important service again.

Organization Jan 2026

15 Essential Home Documents You Should Keep (And How to Organize Them)

Know which home documents to save, how long to keep them, and the best ways to organize everything for easy access.

Technology Jan 2026

Best AI Tools for Homeowners in 2026

Discover how artificial intelligence is making home management easier. From smart inventory to predictive maintenance, here are the best AI tools for your home.

Insurance Jan 2026

Home Inventory After Fire or Flood: Recovery Checklist

What to do when disaster strikes. This recovery guide helps you navigate insurance claims and rebuild after fire, flood, or other catastrophic events.

Appliances Dec 2025

When to Replace Home Appliances: Complete Lifespan Guide

Know when it's time to repair vs. replace your appliances. This guide covers expected lifespans, warning signs, and how to track your appliances.

Vehicles Dec 2025

Car Maintenance Schedule by Mileage: Complete Guide

Know exactly when your vehicle needs service. This comprehensive guide covers all maintenance by mileage intervals.

Safety Dec 2025

Home Emergency Preparedness: The Ultimate Checklist

Be ready for any emergency with this comprehensive preparation guide. From knowing your shutoffs to building an emergency kit, we cover everything.

Organization Dec 2025

Stop Losing Money: How to Track Appliance Warranties

Never miss a warranty claim again. Learn how to organize, track, and actually use your appliance and product warranties.

Finance Dec 2025

How to Track Your Home Value (And Why It Matters)

Understanding your home's value helps with insurance, refinancing, and financial planning. Here's how to track it effectively.