Give Your Home a Mid-Spring Boost
May in Iowa means we’re fully out of winter’s grip and just about ready for summer’s pace. This is the sweet spot for outdoor projects and preventive maintenance before the heat kicks in. These tips are designed to help you enjoy your home more today—and avoid costly surprises when it’s time to sell down the road.
🧼 1. Wash Windows and Screens
Let the sunshine pour in! Use a squeegee and a bucket of soapy water to clean away winter grime. While you're at it, remove your window screens and give them a gentle wash with the hose or a soft brush. Clean windows brighten your home, and clean screens keep your summer breezes bug-free.
🌳 2. Trim Trees and Shrubs
Prune back overgrown branches, especially those near the house or power lines. Healthy trees and shrubs improve curb appeal and help keep pests and moisture problems in check.
🐜 3. Stay Ahead of Pests
Warmer weather brings out the bugs. Check for entry points around pipes, windows, and doors. Consider scheduling a preventive pest control treatment, especially if you’ve had issues in past years.
🧯 4. Check Fire Extinguishers and Emergency Supplies
Make sure your fire extinguisher is still charged and in date. While you’re at it, test flashlights, replace batteries, and restock emergency kits if needed. It’s the kind of thing you’re glad you did when you need it.
🚪 5. Refresh Entry Points
Inspect and clean your front door, porch lights, and welcome mat. These small updates are easy to do and make a big difference in how your home feels to both you and your guests. A little touch-up paint on the front door can go a long way.
🧹 6. Deep Clean the Garage Floor
Sweep out salt, sand, and dirt left from winter. Rinse with a hose and consider applying a floor sealer or even just a good scrub with a degreaser to extend the life of your concrete.
🛠️ 7. Start a Home Maintenance Binder
If you haven’t already, start a folder—physical or digital—for receipts, service records, warranties, and contractor info. This saves a ton of time when you're troubleshooting, selling, or showing buyers your home was well cared for.
Consistent monthly maintenance helps you enjoy your home with fewer surprises—and when the time comes to sell, you won’t be scrambling to fix a long list of issues. You’ve already done the work.
Need a reliable pro for any of these tasks? I’ve got a list—happy to share!
As a Broker Associate/REALTOR® at EXIT Realty and Associates, I specialize in buying and selling real estate throughout Central Iowa, including Norwalk, Des Moines, West Des Moines, Cumming, Indianola, Carlisle, Waukee, Urbandale, Grimes, Clive, Johnston, Ankeny, Altoona, and Pleasant Hill. I proudly serve Warren, Polk, Dallas, and Madison Counties.
📞 Call me, Jon Niemeyer, at 515-490-4675, and let’s find your dream home in Central Iowa!
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