If you are like most investors and new home owners, your ideal property would be one that gives maximum income, whist requiring the least outgoings in terms of repairs or maintenance. However, as an investor it is likely you are going to be holding your property for a number of years. Over this time, inevitably repairs and maintenance will be needed.
Maintenance: to preserve and maintain the same condition
Repairs: to restore to working order
There are a number of Maintenance which need to be evaluated to see if they need repair on an ongoing basis. Instead of doing all these items all at once, Professionals Prowest Real Estate advises they be completed seasonally, why?
• To avoid one large bill and have several smaller ones
• Approaching these items at the right time of year can prevent bigger issues from occurring.
For example: servicing an air-conditioner before the hot summer weather can prevent the air-conditioner, as the units usually
SUMMER – December to February
• Clean windows
• Reticulation service
• Pool service
• Seasonal pest control spray barrier
• Painting
AUTUMN – March to May
• Test Smoke Detectors & Batteries
• Heater service / Replace furnace filters
• Clean out gutters for winter
WINTER – June to August
• Prune Trees – Inspect trees surrounding your home and contact a tree service to remove any unsafe branches or dead trees to avoid damage to your home during strong storms
• Clean out gutters (if not done in Autumn)
• Check downspouts are clear and draining properly
• Check chimney for blockages (if home has fire place)
• Inspect roof for damage / leaks
• Cover any outdoor furniture
SPRING – September to November
• Test Smoke Detectors & Batteries
• Air-conditioner service
• Clean air-conditioning filters
• Change furnace filters
• Test GFCI outlets throughout your home
