Mid-winter is when small home issues stop being “annoying” and start becoming expensive emergencies. A slow leak, a drafty window, or a furnace that sounds a little off can turn into a same-day service call that wrecks your month. When you’re living on a fixed income, the stress isn’t just the repair, it’s the timing and the lack of wiggle room. The good news is you can prepare without spending a lot up front, and you can make smart choices that prevent panic decisions later. These eight steps help you protect your home and your retirement budget when winter decides to test it.
