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Maintaining your home can reduce the chance of depreciation!
Be sure to:
- Complete small maintenance projects before they become too big to manage (see below for ideas!)
- If you have big projects to tackle, reach out to us for advice on financing the repairs.
- If you live in a condominium, work with your Homeowner’s Association to complete exterior repairs on condominiums.
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Test Detectors |
Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if necessary |
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Check for Air Leaks |
Repair and replace caulk, weather-stripping, glazing, and window and door seals as needed to reduce air flow |
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Inspect Roof |
Check your roof for wear and tear. Replace shingles that are cracked, buckled, loose or missing |
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Examine Chimney |
Check exterior chimney for signs of damage and have the flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep (if applicable) |
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Service the Furnace |
Have your heating system inspected. Replace air filters regularly |
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Touch Up Paint |
Lower humidity and cooler temperatures (not cold) make it a good time to touch up peeling or damaged paint on the exterior of your home |
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Clean Gutters and Downspouts |
Make sure all drainage areas are unblocked by leaves and debris |
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Check Foundation |
Look for signs of cracks or water damage. Trim bushes and keep vegetation three feet from home |
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Prepare Outdoor Faucets |
Turn off valves to the exterior hose bibs. Empty hose and store inside |
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Clear Outdoor Vents |
Make sure vents are clear of any vegetation or other debris |
Maintain Your Septic System |
If you are not on public sewer, it’s important to maintain your system properly. Here’s some tips and information to help you. EPA Septic Smart Flyer |
Please note: When the time comes to sell your home, a buyer will have a building inspection completed at their cost. We will receive a full report on the home. You will be responsible for any health, safety and non-operational issues that are discovered. Ongoing maintenance can help keep this report minimal.
Examples of Health & Safety Items:
- Electrical issues including GFCIs and smoke detectors
- Active plumbing leaks, unsecured fixtures
- Broken or non-functional windows
- Roof leaks
- Malfunctioning heating systems or water heaters
- Heating systems must be serviced and tagged within the last two years
- Radon levels testing high
- Rotten siding or trim that could allow moisture into a home
- Safety railings must meet current building codes
- Septic tank, if any, must be pumped in the last two years
- Any issues with wells or water systems
- Any issues found in a Fire & Safety inspection done by town or state fire marshal, if required.
Looking for a contractor to help tackle maintenance? Here is a list to get you started and check out our webpage to learn more about how to determine who to work with.