There’s lots of slop, slush and grime to go around in springtime, but it’s also an opportunity to increase curb appeal by cleaning, gardening and throwing things away, according to three area RE/MAX professionals who spoke with the Fort Frances Times to go over the benefits of spring cleaning.
“I feel like people have gotten away from doing ‘spring cleaning,’ and I feel we should get back into it,” said Caryn Myers.
“It used to be a time to open the windows and let the fresh air in. Curtains and walls would be washed, and area rugs would be hung out on the line and brought back to life. Furniture would be pulled out from the walls, and floors and baseboards would be cleaned. Fans and vents and tops of doors and cupboards would be wiped down. Dumping out drawers and throwing things out. This was a healthy practice.”
Another healthy practice Myers recommends would be to keep a to-do list.
“It would be a great time to make a to-do list of things that needed repairs and set priorities. Keeping on top of the maintenance items is an important part of home ownership,” said Myers.
“Picking a big item to replace each year is also a good idea.
“When it comes time to sell, sometimes unexpectedly, it is a much calmer process knowing that the house is in good shape.”
Being organized certainly has its benefits. However, gardening can provide some additional benefits for those looking to sell.
“I sold a place last year where they didn’t have flowers in yet, then it’s like, ‘Hey, we bought flowers.’ I went back, and I took new pictures of the outside with the flowers in and whatnot, and it did look totally better and nicer,” said Kerry Pasloski.
“It doesn’t hurt to have some curb appeal. Spending 100 bucks on flowers or whatever, just to pretty things up. Do the yard once over, plant some flowers, maintain the grass from there, and voila.”
If you have damage to your siding, you might be wondering if you should repair the damage before selling. Pasloski recommends leaving your siding as it is.
“It’s hard to get contractors,” said Pasloski.
“Sometimes it is best just leave it, because you could go spend all that money, and then the next person goes and changes it after they take possession.”
Tara Jerry suggested people keep things tidy by getting rid of excessive clutter and snow.
“Declutter; the less stuff you have, the easier it is to keep clean! If you are planning on selling, it is good to go through your belongings so you don’t pack and move unnecessary items,” said Jerry.
“A clean home with less clutter can help a buyer better visualize the space with their belongings in place. Keep up on maintenance. Make sure rain gutters and down spouts are functioning and diverting water away from your house. Remove excess snow to avoid water near the foundation.”
