As the sun peaks out more and more, and if you're anything like my husband, this warmth and the blooming flowers create an innate need to "do stuff". If the items you choose to do are done well and in the right way, your property value will ultimately reap the rewards, and so will you! Owning a home involves the responsibility, and for many, the joy of good maintenance, improvement and periodic updating. Whether these are things you choose to do yourself, or items you choose to hire a professional to complete and maintain, you are the one benefiting in the long run.

A few good annual maintenance ideas might include changing air conditioning filters monthly, draining water heaters twice a year, having the air conditioner and heater inspected by a professional once a year before initial or intensive use, cleaning air vents, ceiling fans, window sills and baseboards, steam cleaning carpets quarterly, recaulking windows and doors annually, cleaning out gutters as needed, and painting the interior and exterior every three to five years.

Home improvement ideas might include changing out a single vanity with a dual vanity, replacing a regular tub with a garden or whirlpool type tub, increasing the cabinets and storage capabilities in the kitchen, adding more phone jacks and multiple phone jacks for this technological society we're becoming, adding a deck and/or a covered porch, for two or more stories - increasing the air conditioning and heating zones from one to two creates more pleasant utility bills, increasing the lighting throughout the home using can lights, wall sconces, etc., replacing wood siding with vinyl siding or hardiplank type siding, adding crown moulding to study, family, dining and/or master rooms, improving various appliances with higher efficiency models, and adding gutters to the front and the back of the home if they are not present.

Updating tips can include ideas such as changing from strong colors to more neutral and lighter colors, going from a laminate counter top to a corian, granite or other similar solid surface, increasing space efficiency in smaller areas and rooms, improving floor quality from vinyl and shag to ceramic and hardwoods, and changing out window treatments from Scarlet's dress to the lighter tab top drapes, swags, scarfs, etc.

These are only a few tips and ideas which barely scratch the surface! There is such a broad range of possibilities available to you. The important things to remember are to take things a step at a time and plan wisely, continuously maintain and improve your property so you are not hit with a major issue later, and whenever the time comes to sell, you will not be faced with a big laundry list of items to do. Most importantly, beyond the obvious enjoyment factor, you will generally benefit by a quicker sale for a higher price. Good luck, and enjoy!

PLEASE NOTE: This information is not intended to be legal advice. Your licensed real estate agent cannot give you legal advice. If you have any questions about your legal rights or obligations, you should consult with an attorney.