Seniors Share Their 9 Favorite Homeowner Hacks

1Seniors 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.

3Could New Windows Make Your Home More Comfortable?

A draft by the sofa or a room that never feels warm can put aging windows on your renovation list. Before committing to replacements, compare the full installed price—not just the advertised cost of each window.

Ask each installer to spell out the window type, labor, removal of old materials, and warranty. Energy savings depend on your home, climate, and existing windows; a clear quote helps you decide whether the upgrade fits your budget.

4Make Upstairs Feel Within Reach Again

When the stairs become a daily obstacle, a stairlift is one option to consider for staying comfortable in a two-story home. The right fit depends on your staircase, your mobility needs, and the space available at each landing.

Compare installation, service, and warranty terms along with the equipment price. Ask whether the quote covers a straight or curved rail, and have the installer explain how the lift works during a power outage.

5Solar Bills Not Matching Your Expectations?

Solar ownership can involve more than an electric bill. Loan or lease payments, utility charges, and system performance all affect what you actually spend each month.

If the numbers do not match what you were told, gather your contract and recent statements before requesting a solar contract review. Ask what the review covers, what any follow-up service costs, and what outcomes are possible. A review does not guarantee savings or cancellation.

6Three Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Contractor

A good home improvement decision starts with clear answers. Bring these three questions to every estimate:

1. Are you properly licensed and insured? Ask for current documentation and check any licensing required in your area.
2. Can I speak with recent customers? Look for experience with projects similar to yours and read independent reviews.
3. Will you put the complete estimate in writing? It should explain the scope, materials, payment schedule, timing, and warranty.

Compare quotes for the same work so a lower price does not hide an important omission. Take time to read the agreement before signing.

7Still Paying for a Timeshare You Rarely Use?

Annual maintenance fees can be hard to justify when your travel plans have changed. Start by asking your resort or timeshare company about its own surrender, resale, or exit options.

If you explore a third-party exit service, request written details about fees, the process, and refund terms. An eligibility review is only a starting point; no company can guarantee that every contract can be canceled.

Consumer resource: The FTC’s guide to timeshares and related scams.

8Owe the IRS More Than $10,000? Understand Your Options

An unpaid tax bill can feel difficult to tackle, but it helps to understand the available paths before paying for assistance. The IRS offers payment arrangements and, for qualifying taxpayers, other forms of relief. You can explore those options directly with the IRS.

A tax professional may help review your situation and explain the paperwork. Ask about credentials and fees before hiring anyone. Owing more than $10,000 does not automatically qualify you for a reduction, and no private company can promise IRS approval.

Consumer resource: Get help with tax debt directly from the IRS.

9Five Common Scams to Keep on Your Radar

A familiar-looking message or urgent phone call can be convincing. Watch for these five approaches:

• Medicare card requests. Unsolicited callers asking for your Medicare number or money for a replacement card.
• IRS impersonators. Threats demanding immediate payment or sensitive information.
• Tech support pop-ups. Alarming messages telling you to call a number or give a stranger access to your computer.
• Family “emergencies.” Someone claiming a grandchild needs money urgently and asking you to keep it secret.
• Delivery text messages. Unexpected links asking you to pay a small fee or update payment information.