Unfortunately there is no such thing as a maintenance-free house, so seize the day as it’s the perfect time of year to do this important work.
A good maintenance programme enables you to put a halt to problems before they become major (and typically expensive), is also helps make your home more comfortable, healthier and safer to live in and will help ensure your home holds its value and makes a better impression when you come to sell it.
Start with an inspection that includes:
• Exterior walls: check paintwork for cracking, flaking or chalking; check walls for holes plus dirt and salt build-up or for moss/lichen growth along with other signs of dampness or staining. Check for corrosion of nails or flashings along with degradation of any sealant and see if your cladding is at least 175mm above the lawn or garden or 100mm above paved surfaces and that underfloor vents are clear.
• Roof: Investigate the condition of your cladding, flashings and any chimney(s), along with the stability of your TV aerial and receiver dish (if you have one).
• Pipes, guttering and drains: Check out the condition of these important features, ensuring they are clean, secure, unblocked and in good repair.
• Under the floor: Look for problematic levels of moisture, excessive loads and/or borer.
• Balconies/decks and fences: Inspect wooden balconies/decks for protruding nails, splits or rot and concrete ones for cracks or other problems, and inspect your fences for loose boards and posts, rot etc. See whether it’s time for a fresh coat of paint or stain.
Maximising your property’s street appeal
To help sell your property maximising street appeal is a must – but it doesn’t have to cost the earth.
No matter what the market conditions are, good street appeal is important for attracting buyers.
Not surprisingly the view from the street and the area between the entrance to the property and the front door are crucial.
Here are a few tips for improving your property’s street appeal:
Ensure the exterior of your property is spic and span. Mow the lawns and trim the edges, sweep the driveway, weed the gardens and prune or remove trees that have got too big or are blocking out valuable light or taking up space that could be put to better use. Replace dead/dying/unattractive plants.
Clean out the gutters, waterblast paths, driveways, fences and decks.
Ensure the exterior of the house itself is free of dirt. Freshen up the paint, if required.
Create an appealing entranceway. Using stylish pots, attractive plants and an appealing welcome mat add to appeal.
De-clutter exterior spaces. Take away rubbish bins, bikes or tools, normally left outside, or store elsewhere.
Ensure any outdoor living areas are dressed-up with nice outdoor furniture and potted plants.
Depending on your property and your budget, erect a fence or plant established trees as a screen, for privacy or simply to look cosy.
Adding decks significantly enhances street appeal.
Getting professional help to landscape the garden/grounds could be one of the best investments you ever make.
For all your real estate needs, whether buying, selling, property management or rentals,
Mobile: 021 143 9679
Office: 6232700
After Hours: 6257678
Harcourts - OCI Realty Ltd MREINZ
373 - 375 Dominion Road, Mt. Eden, Auckland.