When it comes to selling your home for the highest price, or even maintaining your property for general longevity, you should never turn a blind eye. And we mean never. Because when you resort to last-minute work, there’s a high chance you’ll pay for it — both literally and figuratively. At SBP, we’re big believers in regular home maintenance, some of which occurs monthly, and others seasonally, which is why we’ve put together the ultimate checklist so your investment can remain in tip-top shape — and your wallet won’t suffer.
When it’s time to put your house on the market, you’ll be thanking us. Because if your property is well-maintained throughout the year, you’ll avoid having to do extensive repairs and side-step any major red flags from inspectors and potential buyers. Talk about an easy win-win. Who wants their home to fall out of escrow due to issues found in the inspection from deferred maintenance? [Insert cricket noise here]. Follow our guide below and trust us when we say your home will be running like a well-oiled machine.
Monthly
- Test smoke detectors
- Deep cleaning
- Inspect fire extinguishers
- Clean garbage disposal
- Unclog drains
- Clean range hood and filter
- Replace HVAC filter (every 3 months)
Spring
- Clean exterior windows
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Inspect roof for leaks
- Repair damaged screens (doors / windows)
- Service AC system
- Apply pre-emergent to lawn
- Reseal outdoor woodwork
- Sharpen lawnmower blades
- Inspect concrete pathways
- Inspect sprinkler system
- Spray for bugs
Summer
- Clean grill / fill propane
- Mulch garden beds
- Test your home alarm
- Exterior paint touch ups
- Clean refrigerator coils
- Sanitize trash bins
- Inspect / clean dryer vent
- Clean bathroom vent fans
- Fertilize the lawn
Fall
- Service heating system
- Seal window / door cracks
- Rake / blow leaves
- Ensure pipes are insulated
- Schedule chimney sweep
- Turn off outdoor water
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Check attic vents
- Store outdoor furniture
- Winterize sprinkler system
- Over-seed and aerate lawn
Winter
- Prepare for a storm
- Insulate hot water tank
- Remove window screens
- Check insulation levels
- Purchase humidifier
- Protect entryways (mats and weather stripping)
- Protect AC with plywood
- Secure steps and handrails
- Set heat to 55 or higher
Want a printable version so you can ensure timely perfection? Download our full checklist below and get going.