The days are getting longer and the weather is starting to warm up. Which means it is time to come out of hibernation and assess the toll the winter weather had on your home. Performing annual home maintenance can help you plan for repairs before the summer season arrives.  Here are a few home maintenance tips to consider each spring season.

1. Check the Screen Doors and Windows 

Examine the seals and trim around your doors and windows to see if they need to be resealed, repaired, or replaced before the rainy season arrives. If moisture gets in, it could cause damage to the wood trim. Also, take this time to check your window screens for damage. 

2. Visit the Attic and Basement

Take a trip down to your basement and up to your attic and do a visual inspection for mold or moisture build-up. Also keep an eye out  for any evidence of critters that may have made themselves at home over the winter. If you spot any issues that require further inspection, consider hiring a professional to assess the damage and the best plan of attack.

3. Consider Painting or Replacing Wood 

Exposed wood can rot so be sure to repair and replace any damaged wood whether it be your deck, railings or window sills. If you notice any cracked or peeling paint, scrape it off and apply a fresh coat to protect the wood from the spring elements.

4. Inspect your Roof and Siding 

The weather can take a toll on the exterior of your home. Take a look at the roof to see if there are any missing or damaged shingles that need to be replaced. Also, check the flashing on your chimney and skylights. Inspect your siding and look for any cracks, warping, rot and pest invasion. There could be underlying problems so get a professional opinion if you’re unsure. If the exterior of your home is in need of repair it could lead to damage inside your home. If you notice any of these items be sure to call a professional for further inspection.

5. Clean your Gutters and Downspouts

Clean out leaves and any debris from your gutters so they drain properly and work efficiently. This task prevents water damage and rot, a place for pests to nest, and it helps the overall lifespan of your roof and foundation. Additionally, make sure the downspouts are angled away from the foundation. 

6. Examine Driveways and Walkways

Look for cracks, potholes, or divots in your driveway and walkways and get them repaired. Smaller cracks are usually easier and less costly to repair, so take care of these once they are visible. If you have a dirt driveway, make sure to  fill in any potholes and regrade with a fresh layer of gravel each spring.

7. Add Soil 

If you have any low areas next to your foundation or in your yard, add some soil to level out these areas. This will help prevent foundation damage, minimize insects, and reduce flooding caused by spring rains. 

8. Service your Furnace and AC Unit 

Ask a professional to clean and service your outside air conditioning system. This will help with performance during the warm months. It could also help reduce your electric bill since the unit will be operating more efficiently. On top of that, it is important to check the furnace and have it maintenanced. This is critical  especially after a long winter of heating your home to make sure it is in tip top shape the next time you need it. 

9. Pressure Wash Your House

Once the cold weather has lifted, power washing your home can be a great way to keep up with exterior maintenance. Cleaning your roof, gutters, decks, as well as siding will help to avoid  mold or mildew sitting and causing costly damage in the long run. 

10. Spruce Up Landscaping 

Give your landscaping some TLC. Dig out or cut back any species that might be overflowing onto your walkway or driveway, and/or blocking any windows. Take this time to also give your garden a facelift and start planning those planting projects!

Partaking routine home maintenance you can avoid costly repairs as well as help you prepare and budget for updates that might be needed. For more home maintenance tips or advice on what to do before you list this spring, get in touch with a Coldwell Banker Islands Realty Agent.

When preparing your home for a showing there are small steps you can take to make the bathroom more appealing to potential buyers. Check them out below or bookmark this post to refer to later!

1. Close the toilet seat.

Everyone knows what a toilet looks like! This step is also especially important for preparing to shoot your listing photos.

2. Clean off clutter. 

Hide your personal items and hygiene whether it's a toothbrush or cosmetics make sure to store it away before a showing.

3. Do a deep clean. 

Scrub and disinfect the space. Washrooms face a lot of wear and tear, stains, or mildew could easily deter a potential buyer. 

4. Use show towels.

The bathroom will be most attractive if it looks like it hasn't been used. Set out separate towels for showings and photos. 

5. Add some flowers or simple decor. 

 Add some finishing touches but keep it simple, think spa retreat. 

Did you find this article helpful? Check out these interior improvements that will blow away potential buyers. Consult your Realtor on additional techniques to help make sure your home is showcased in the best light possible. 

 As the cold weather sets in, you should take several steps to prepare your home correctly. Doing routine home maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs as well as prepare and budget for updates that might be needed. Save yourself the headache in the spring, and take the steps below to winterize your home.

1. Seal cracks around windows and doors.

This will help prevent drafts and keep the heat shut inside.

2. Clean your gutters.

Cleaning your gutters every fall has numerous benefits. This task prevents water damage and rot, a place for pests to nest, plus it helps the overall lifespan of your roof and foundation. 

3. Inspect your roof.

Make sure to examine your roof. Look for any damage such as missing shingles or cracks and get them repaired before the snow falls. If you ignore these issues, the harsh winter months could exacerbate what was once minor damage. 

4. Trim trees and bushes.

Cut back any overgrown bushes or large unsteady branches that could break off near the roof or home. 

5. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. 

To make sure these detectors are working properly, take the time to check the function and replace the batteries if need be.

6. Have your chimney or fireplace serviced.

Before the cool weather arrives, it is best to have your chimney and fireplace cleaned before running. Not only is this good fire safety practice, it will clear out any critters that may have found their way in.

7. Remove window screens and screen doors.

This will help the longevity of your screens. Also, consider installing storm windows and doors. 

8. Winterize summer power equipment.

Store away the lawn mower and bring out your snowblower. While you are doing this, test out your winter equipment to make sure there are no issues before the first snowfall. 

9. Cover or store away outdoor furniture.

You most likely will not be using your hammock so, to protect your outdoor furniture from the winter elements we recommend covering them or storing them away. 

10. Shut off faucets and drain hoses or sprinklers.

If there is any access water in the faucet or hose it will freeze and possibly burst causing more damage. Ensure that the water is shut off and put away any hoses to prevent this.

For more home maintenance tips or advice on what to do before you list this fall, get in touch with a Coldwell Banker Islands Realty Agent.

Looking to make your Vermont home more eco-friendly? There are many updates and changes you can make in your home to help you achieve a more sustainable lifestyle. Some of these changes not only will lower your energy costs but can also increase the value of your home.

1. Switch out your Light Bulbs

Swap your incandescent light bulbs for LED light bulbs. LED bulbs use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than traditional lights! These are more efficient and they will end up saving you money in the long run.

2. Invest in Energy Efficient Appliances

Whether it’s your washer or refrigerator replacing outdated appliances with new more efficient models will help cut your home's energy consumption. However, finding the right model can be overwhelming. We recommend browsing online on Efficieny Vermont where they compare products and help you get the best deal.

3. Wash Clothes in Cold Water

If purchasing a new washer and dryer isn’t in your budget, you can still find ways to cut your energy use with the appliances you have. According to energy star, by adjusting your cycle temperature from hot to warm you can cut the energy use in half. Additionally, switching to the cold cycle will decrease the energy use even more! After washing your garments, consider skipping the dryer and line drying your clothes.

4. Insulate Walls, Ceilings, and Doors 

Make sure your home is sealed tight to retain heat in the winter and keep hot air out of the home during the warmer months. This, in turn, will help decrease the energy used to heat and cool your home throughout the year which will lower those associated costs as well! 

5. Compost

The average family produces about 18 pounds of trash a day which adds up to 6,570 pounds of trash a year! If you compost, you will help to decrease the amount of solid waste your household generates. If you live in Vermont, then you should have already hopped on the composting bandwagon. However, if you need assistance on how to compost the Vermont Department of Energy Conservation has a great guide on the do's and don'ts of composting. 

6. Install Solar Panels

While these can be costly, solar panels will be the most effective to combat greenhouse gas emissions. In Vermont, the solar prices are down 45% over the past 5 years! Plus, to help offset costs you can get a 26% federal tax credit for projects that begin before 2023. 

7. Use Eco-Friendly Household Products 

Try using green plant-based products and eco-friendly paint to reduce the release of toxins that pollute the air pollution. We recommend using databases such as the EPA Safer Choice Program to see how your current household products size up and to how to search for cleaner products.

 

Making these lifestyle changes and upgrades to your home will help immensely to reduce your carbon footprint. These improvements will also increase your home's value which will put you in a great position when you decide to sell your home! 

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There are small changes that you can make inside your home to make it more appealing to potential buyers. While it may seem like a minor detail, investing your time to take care of the nitty gritty aspects such as, decluttering and rearranging pays off. Here are a five quick ways to revamp the interior of your home:

1. Ambient Lighting

Depending on the mood you are aiming for, think about the types of light bulbs you may be using. Try swapping your current lightbulbs out for warm, incandescent light bulbs for a homey feel. If you are trying to attain a bright and clean atmosphere in your home LED light bulbs will provide ample cool light.

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2.  Give your windows and curtains some attention

Consider replacing heavy curtains with a sheer curtain alternative. If new curtains aren’t in your budget, just be sure to open them to allow more natural light. While doing this, take a moment to observe your window panes. Have a great view? Make sure to wash your windows to enhance visibility and brighten up your interior space.

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3. Declutter and depersonalize 

Minimalism is key when preparing a home for a showing, start by removing any objects that might distract a home buyer. This includes clearing off your countertops, reorganizing any busy shelves, and removing personal photos. By depersonalizing the home, it allows potential buyers to visualize the space with their own belongings.

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4. Staging your home

While staging doesn’t have to be extravagant there are many small tricks that can help the sale of your home. Try adding fresh flowers to the entryway, setting the dining room table, or rearranging the living room furniture to open up the space. Don’t exhaust yourself trying to make every room perfect, prioritize the most important areas and features of your home. 

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5. Capitalize on the senses.

Create an atmosphere through visuals and aromas that might resonate with a potential buyer. Begin by neutralizing any odor with a deep clean, then consider burning a candle or baking fresh cookies before a showing. 

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We hope you found these tips helpful! Consult your Realtor on additional techniques to help make sure your home is showcased in the best light possible.