lenylux

[lenylux]

Ox Foundation Solutions Scholarship Contest 2023

Many people today rent, and because they rent they feel their houses aren't really homes. Because of this many people don’t see the need to maintain their houses. However I personally believe that the ownership of property is not what defines a home. Instead a home is defined by the shared living experience within a group of people, wether that be with friends or family. This is why the upkeep of your home is so important, because it’s a reflection of that shared life, of that love between the community under one roof.

A renter's typical upkeep might include replacing lightbulbs, maybe even basic electrical and plumbing work. Maintenance in rental homes could include paint jobs, mailbox replacement, and yard work. Since maintenance can be so low-profile, it is common to fall behind. Renters can be left discouraged to keep up since they don’t own the property. 

I relate to this deeply because my family has been renting my whole life. As a child, I always knew these places weren’t my home. I threw tantrums anytime my Dad dragged us out on Sunday mornings to do yard work or plaster up cracks in our rooms, and even when my Dad insisted on repainting the inside and replacing appliances like sinks, countertops, and kitchen cabinets, I couldn’t understand why. It all seemed unnecessary when we would just end up moving out and starting over again. However, as I grew up, I realized the reason my Dad was so dedicated to making these houses presentable, even if they weren’t ours; having these homes be up to par made living in them that much more enjoyable. It gave us that sense of pride to be living beyond just surviving. Although renters may not feel like where they live requires a sense of ownership, maintaining that house is truly what makes it your home. Makes it an accomplishment of your own.