I recently had the pleasure to help a client with a property that she was renting out.  She owned the property for many years and unbeknownst to her,  there were some items in her home that were in need of repair.  We found some of the repairs entirely by accident, and luckily, we were able to remediate and repair them in time for her new tenants to move in.  She suggested that I put together a list of regular home repairs that property owners should do on a regular basis, and thus, this blog was posted for you.  Over the years, I have learned alot about home repairs as I sit through home inspections and help guide and strategize with my  buyer clients through their inspection contingency periods.  If you are thinking about buying or selling, give me a call and let’s figure out the next steps to make your experience the best that it can be.     Warmly, Revi

Home Maintenance Checklist

Like a health physical, routine maintenance is important for every home’s upkeep and well-being. Continuing to check up on your exterior, appliances, heating and cooling, plumbing, security, and electrical systems will help prevent breakdowns, save money, and keep your home looking its best.

Monthly Home Improvements

Inspecting your home and completing monthly home improvement projects will keep your maintenance schedule on track and easier to manage. A comprehensive monthly home improvement checklist is easy to implement, both in terms of time and money. Here is a list of basic monthly home improvements:

• Clean the furnace filter to remove dust build-ups, make it easier to regulate your home’s temperature, and ultimately decrease utility bills.
• Check the water softener and replenish salt if necessary.
• Clean faucet aerators and showerheads to remove mineral deposits.
• Inspect tub and sink drains for debris; unclog.

Seasonal Home Improvement:

Fall Maintenance Checklist

In many regions, fall is the perfect season to tackle important home improvement projects because the weather is generally dry and temperatures are moderate. Before you start your seasonal home improvement tasks, examine both the interior and exterior of your home. Most of these home maintenance items can be accomplished without the help of a professional, but it’s always better to be safe and call for assistance if a home improvement project is beyond your abilities. Here are our seasonal home improvement recommendations for fall and spring:

• Rake leaves and aerate the lawn.
• Have forced-air heating system inspected by a professional. Tip: schedule an inspection in late summer or early fall before the heating season begins.
• Check fireplace for damage or hazards.
• Seal cracks and gaps in windows and doors with caulk or weather stripping; replace if necessary.
• Swap old, drafty windows for more energy-efficient models.
• Touch up exterior siding and trim with paint.
• Inspect roofing for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks.
• Power-wash windows and siding.
• Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.
• Mend cracks and gaps in the driveway and walkway.
• Drain and winterize exterior plumbing.
• Have fireplace professionally inspected.
• Tune up major home appliances before the holidays.
• Repair or replace siding.
• Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Install a smoke detector on every floor of your home, including the basement.
• Clean the carpets.
• Clean window and door screens.
• Vacuum lint from dryer vent.
• Inspect exterior door hardware; fix squeaky handles and loose locks.
• Check for frayed cords and wires.

Spring Maintenance Checklist

• Inspect roofing for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks.
• Change the air-conditioner filter.
• Clean window and door screens.
• Polish wood furniture, and dust light fixtures.
• Refinish the deck.
• Power-wash windows and siding.
• Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.
• Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Have a professional inspect and pump the septic tank.
• Inspect sink, shower, and bath caulking for deterioration.
• Vacuum lint from dryer vent.

Original article appeared on BHG.com