With temperatures finally warming up as this year's long, harsh winter fades into the background, homeowners across the country are looking to take advantage of the better weather to finally begin working on their houses again. Spring and summer are the housing market's most active times of the year, with buyers looking for a new place to call home and sellers looking to get their properties in tip-top shape to show off. Not only can renovations improve a home's value, they can also undo any damage that winter weather storms tend to cause.
"Winter weather can damage homes in ways that aren't easily visible," said Paul Sullivan, the National Association of Home Builders' (NAHB) Remodelers Chair, in a press statement. "Home owners should protect their investment and […] repair or replace damaged components now, before spring storms create more problems."
Here are a few home repair tips from the NAHB to help you get started:
- Check the roof: Make sure to inspect your rooftop for warped, lost or missing tiles. Damaged or absent shingles can allow outside weather like rain to get indoors, causing even further damage.
- Clean out the gutters: Downspouts and gutters that have become clogged with leaves and other storm debris can cause water to back up and flood the house. Clean out any blockages in these pipes.
- Seal doors and windows: Inspect door and window frames for any cracks or leaks that might be letting water in or air out. Use caulking or weatherstripping to seal up these openings before they grow any larger.
Are you in the market for new California investment properties in prime condition this spring? Meet with Jon Hesse, a top local real estate agent who can show you all the ins and outs of the Sacramento housing market.