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May
13

Spring Maintenance Strategies - Sell a Home | Counselor Realty

Spring has sprung, which means it's time to focus on home maintenance. While performing common maintenance tasks may not be your favorite way to spend a weekend, caring for your home does help boost its value. If you're planning on selling, either this year or down the road, you'll likely earn more if your home has been properly maintained and cared for over the years. So, what tasks are the most important to complete in the spring? Here's what we recommend after years of helping clients list Saint Cloud homes for sale and Victoria homes for sale.

  • Clear Your Gutters
    If your gutters are blocked, water will run down the sides of your home and pool near the foundation. Over time, this can lead to foundation leaks, damage to your siding, and deterioration of landscaping. Cleaning gutters isn't too tough as long as you're comfortable on a ladder. You simply use a gloved hand to pull out any gunk. Put the gunk in a bucket. Then, use a hose to rinse the last bits of debris out of your gutters.

  • Change Your Air Filter
    Your heating and cooling system pushes air through a filter, which traps pollen, dust, mold spores, and other debris. If the filter becomes too clogged, your furnace and AC unit will struggle, reducing their lifespan and increasing your need for repairs over the years. Changing the air filter is pretty simple. Pull the filter out of its slot, usually next to the furnace. Take it to the hardware store to ensure you buy a new filter of the same size. Then, slide the new filter into place. Remember to keep changing your filter every 2 - 3 months.

  • Lubricate Doors and Windows
    Doors and windows become harder to open if you don't lubricate the hinges occasionally. Spring is a good time to do this. All you need is a can of all-purpose lubricant, such as WD-40. Apply a small amount to all hinges and other moving components. While you're at it, look over your doors and windows for any signs of hardware damage. If any hardware is rusty, corroded, or detached, consider replacing it with a handyman service or window and door company.

  • Check Smoke and CO Detectors
    Smoke and CO detectors keep you and your family members safe. Change the batteries this spring. Also, check the dates on the backs of your smoke detectors and CO alarms. If they are close to or past their dates, replace them.

  • Apply Fertilizer and Weed Killer to the Lawn
    This is the perfect time to treat your lawn. Consider applying a product that contains both fertilizer and a pre-emergent weed killer. The weed killer will keep weeds from germinating, so your lawn remains grassy and lush. A slow-release fertilizer will nourish the grass for months to come. A nice lawn will boost your curb appeal, which goes a long way towards increasing home value.

  • Check for Roof Leaks
    Poke your head up into the attic. Look for any black spots on the insulation or roof deck. Also, note whether there are any moldy or musty odors. These can be signs of a minor roof leak, which you'll want to have a roofer address sooner rather than later. They may need to replace some shingles or flashing.

If you complete these maintenance tasks this spring, your home and future buyers will thank you. Call today if you're looking for a real estate agent in the Twin Cities or surrounding areas.

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