Spring is known for its new beginnings and fresh starts, that’s why it’s also an ideal time to ensure your property remains in excellent condition for the warmer months ahead. Whether you own a single-family home or multiple rental units, proactive maintenance helps prevent costly repairs, preserves property value, and keeps tenants happy. As a property management team at Oak City Properties, we’ve put together a list of cost-effective spring maintenance tips you can tackle yourself or budget for a professional if necessary.
1. Inspect and Clean Gutters
Raleigh’s seasonal rains can be intense, and clogged gutters or downspouts can quickly lead to water damage, foundation issues, or mold growth.
Most homeowners can handle cleaning gutters themselves with a sturdy ladder, gloves, and a garden hose. If you’re uncomfortable with heights or have a larger property, consider hiring a professional service.
While you’re up there, check for gutter leaks or corrosion. Sealing small holes with gutter sealant is affordable and simple to do on your own.
2. Check the Roof for Damage
Harsh winter conditions and spring storms can cause loose shingles, leaks, or damage that compromise your home’s integrity.
You can use binoculars from the ground to look for missing or curling shingles. If you notice anything concerning like large gaps or sagging, hire a roofing specialist for closer inspection.
Promptly addressing minor roofing issues prevents more expensive repairs down the road, like interior water damage or mold remediation.
3. Seal Windows and Doors
Cracks around windows and doors let in moisture and boost your energy bills by allowing air leaks.
Applying new weatherstripping or caulk is a beginner-friendly DIY task. Caulk tubes usually cost under ten dollars, making this a highly cost-effective improvement. If you have extensive frame damage, a contractor might be needed for a more thorough repair.
Pay close attention to the window trim and door threshold. Even a small gap can let in pests or drafts.
4. Service Your HVAC System
Raleigh summers can be hot and humid, making a functional air-conditioning system essential for comfort and tenant satisfaction.
Most property owners can handle basic tasks like changing the air filter every one to three months. Scheduling a professional tune-up, however, can extend the life of your system and ensure it runs efficiently when you need it most.
Regularly clean the outdoor compressor unit, removing leaves and debris to improve airflow and efficiency.
5. Refresh Landscaping
Curb appeal affects home value and can attract or retain quality tenants. Plus, proper landscaping can prevent soil erosion and basement flooding.
Mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and weeding flower beds are straightforward tasks. Planting low-maintenance, drought-resistant plants is also a good cost-saving strategy. If your yard needs extensive grading or tree removal, calling in a professional is safer and potentially more economical in the long run.
Mulch gardens and around trees to help retain moisture and reduce weed growth. This also provides a polished appearance.
6. Inspect the Foundation and Exterior
Small cracks in the foundation or external walls can expand if left unaddressed, leading to significant structural problems.
Walk around the property and look for cracks, holes, or signs of pest entry. A quick patch job with concrete filler or exterior caulk can be done inexpensively. If you suspect deeper structural issues, consult a professional to assess the damage.
Don’t forget to check the driveway and walkways for cracks or uneven sections that could be hazardous.
7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Functional detectors are essential for tenant safety and often required by state or local regulations.
Replacing batteries and testing the alarms is a simple DIY step. Upgrading older units to newer models is also recommended every ten years.
Keep extra batteries on hand so you can replace them promptly if a tenant reports a low-battery warning chirp.
8. Clean and Organize Outdoor Spaces
A clean deck or patio encourages outdoor enjoyment and signals to tenants or potential buyers that you maintain your property well. Sweeping and power washing can be done yourself if you own or rent a pressure washer. If the deck has extensive damage or needs professional refinishing, hire a contractor. Check for loose railings or wobbly steps. These small fixes prevent accidents and potential liability issues.
Spring Forward into Maintenance
Spring maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. By breaking tasks into manageable steps, you can protect your investment, enhance curb appeal, and keep tenants happy while potentially saving money in the long run. Remember that when it comes to more challenging projects, like significant structural repairs or complex HVAC issues, hiring a professional can provide peace of mind and ensure the job is done right the first time.
At Oak City Properties, we encourage proactive maintenance as part of our commitment to helping Raleigh property owners succeed. If you need guidance or support, from finding reliable contractors to managing tenant relationships, our experienced team is here to help. With a bit of planning and the right approach, you’ll have your property looking and functioning at its best this spring and well into the future.
Oak City Properties is Here to Help
At Oak City Properties, we’re here to support your real estate journey, whether you’re a seasoned flipper or just starting. We provide custom solutions and competitive quotes that tailor our services to what you really need. Our full property management service will work with you each step of the way when renting and maintaining your property. We believe hiring a property management company should be a transparent process built on trust and doing our absolute best to take care of your investment.
Want to learn more about our commitment to effective real estate investing and property management? Contact us today via the form below or call (919) 232-9222.
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