Spring officially arrived yesterday, ushering in what is traditionally the busiest season of the year for our local real estate markets.
Although the Bay Area enjoyed an unseasonably warm winter with fewer than average storms, that doesn’t necessarily mean your home emerged unscathed. Remember that many buyers initially judge a home based on its curb appeal, so those who plan to sell in the near future would do well to make sure their houses appear attractive and well-cared-for.
To help you spruce up your home and get it in tip-top selling condition, we asked our real estate professionals for spring home-maintenance tips that should be at the top of your list.
- Check your home’s exterior walkways, sidewalks, stairways, and foot paths for possible trip hazards and cracks.
- Look out for tree roots that can undermine foundations, driveways, and walkways, as well as vines that can damage siding and trim.
- Clean gutters to remove debris caused by winds and rain. While you’re at it, check to ensure that gutters aren’t loose or leaky.
- Trim overgrown tree branches and shrubs. Pay careful attention to areas around the chimney and roof, which will help reduce the chance of fire, roof damage, and buildup of debris in gutters and on roof surfaces.
- Give decks, driveways, fences, and windows a good scrubbing – particularly if you’re planning to put your home on the market. You may want to use a pressure washer for these jobs.
- Touch up any peeling or cracking paint – both indoors and outdoors.
- Caulk bathroom tubs and shower stalls to prevent moisture from seeping behind the wall covering and under the flooring.
- While you have the caulk out, look for any gaps around windows and doors. Fill up crevices that are wider than a nickel.
- Check to make sure no water has leaked into the attic or seeped into the basement via cracks in the foundation – especially important after a rainy winter.
- Winter rains also can cause your lawn to quickly become overgrown. Ensure that your lawn-care equipment is in good working order by sharpening your lawnmower’s blades and changing the engine oil.
- Test all smoke detectors in your home and change batteries as needed.
