Breakdown of Monthly Mortgage Payments

A typical monthly mortgage payment comprises several key components:

• Principal: The principal is the initial amount you borrowed to buy your home. Over time, your monthly payments gradually reduce this principal, increasing your equity in the property.

• Interest: Interest is the cost of borrowing money from the lender. It’s calculated based on your remaining loan balance and the interest rate. In the early years of your mortgage, a larger portion of your payment goes towards interest, gradually decreasing over time.

• Taxes: Property taxes are assessed by your local government to fund public services like schools, roads, and public safety. Lenders often collect a portion of these taxes as part of your monthly payment and then pay them on your behalf.

• Homeowners Insurance: Homeowners insurance protects your property against damage from events like fire, theft, or natural disasters. Your lender may require you to have an insurance policy in place, and a portion of the annual premium is included in your monthly mortgage payment.

• Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): If you make a down payment of less than 20% of the home’s purchase price, your lender may require PMI. This insurance protects the lender in case you default on your loan. PMI adds to your monthly payment until your loan-to-value ratio reaches 80%.

Impact of Each Component

Understanding how each component affects your monthly payment can help you make informed decisions about your mortgage:

• Principal and Interest: These two components make up the core of your mortgage payment. Early on, more of your payment goes towards interest, but over time, the balance shifts towards reducing the principal.

• Taxes and Insurance: These components contribute to your overall payment but don’t directly affect your loan balance. However, failure to pay property taxes can lead to liens on your property, while lacking homeowners insurance leaves you vulnerable to unexpected expenses.

• PMI: PMI can significantly increase your monthly payment, making it crucial to aim for a 20% down payment to avoid it or explore options for removing PMI once your equity increases.

Tips to Reduce Monthly Payments

Here are some strategies to lower your monthly mortgage payments:

• Improve Credit Score: A higher credit score can qualify you for a lower interest rate, reducing your monthly interest payment.

• Increase Down Payment: A larger down payment can help you avoid PMI and reduce your loan amount, resulting in a lower monthly payment.

• Refinance: When interest rates drop, refinancing your mortgage can lead to a lower monthly payment.

• Appeal Property Assessment: If you believe your property’s assessed value is too high, you can appeal your property tax assessment to potentially lower your taxes.

Real Estate Market Case Studies

Let’s consider two scenarios:

1. Scenario A: A borrower with a 10% down payment ($30,000) on a $300,000 home, resulting in PMI costs of $100 per month.

2. Scenario B: A borrower with a 20% down payment ($60,000), avoiding PMI altogether.

Over a 30-year term, Scenario B could save over $36,000 in PMI payments, showcasing the impact of a larger down payment.

Monthly mortgage payments consist of several components, each with its significance in shaping your homeownership journey. By understanding the breakdown and factors influencing these payments, you can make informed decisions that align with your financial goals. Implementing strategies to reduce your monthly payments can contribute to long-term savings and increased financial security as you navigate the real estate market. Remember, a little knowledge and thoughtful planning can go a long way in making your homeownership dreams a reality. Ready to start your home buying journey? Visit us here to schedule a meeting with a Sage & Cedar agent. 

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Getting Started with Selling Your Home

01. Schedule a home preview – Before diving into the home-selling process, you’ll need to connect with a knowledgeable realtor. A realtor brings expertise to the table, guiding you through the intricate steps of selling your home. Start by scheduling a preview, where the realtor will assess your property and provide valuable insights.

During the preview, the realtor will evaluate your home’s condition, layout, and features. This assessment helps you understand your home’s market value and allows the realtor to suggest effective strategies for showcasing your property’s strengths. A preview is the initial step towards a successful home-selling journey.

02. Declutter and Deep Clean – A clutter-free and sparkling-clean home is essential to make a lasting impression on potential buyers. Before listing your home, dedicate time to decluttering and deep cleaning each room. Begin by removing personal items, excess furniture, and unnecessary clutter. This step not only makes rooms appear more spacious but also allows buyers to envision their belongings in the space.

Next, tackle a deep cleaning session. Scrub floors, wipe down surfaces, and pay special attention to high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. A clean and fresh-smelling home not only enhances visual appeal but also gives the impression of a well-maintained property. Buyers are more likely to be drawn to a home that exudes cleanliness and care.

03. Hire a Professional Photographer – Capturing your home’s beauty through high-quality photographs is crucial for attracting potential buyers online. In today’s digital age, most buyers begin their home search online, making visually appealing photos a powerful marketing tool. To showcase your home in its best light, consider hiring a professional photographer.

A skilled photographer knows how to capture the essence of each room, highlighting its unique features and creating inviting visuals. Exterior shots are equally important; they provide a glimpse of the home’s curb appeal and overall ambiance. High-resolution, well-lit images are more likely to grab buyers’ attention and encourage them to schedule a viewing.

Taking these three essential steps – scheduling a preview with a realtor, decluttering and deep cleaning your home, and hiring a professional photographer – sets the stage for a successful home-selling experience. Each step contributes to creating an irresistible first impression that captures potential buyers’ attention and imagination. By investing time and effort into these initial stages, you’re well on your way to selling your home swiftly and at the price it deserves. Start your journey with confidence, knowing you’re presenting your home in the best possible light.

Ready to start your home selling process? Visit us here to connect with a S&C agent!

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3 Reasons You Aren’t Getting an Over-Ask Offer Like Your Neighbor

01. The Price is Not Right – One of the most critical aspects of selling a home is determining the right asking price. Pricing your property too high can deter potential buyers and lead to prolonged listing periods. On the other hand, pricing it too low might attract numerous offers, but you risk losing out on potential profits. The key is finding the sweet spot – a price that aligns with the current market conditions, comparable sales in your area, and the unique features of your home.

To avoid pricing pitfalls, consider enlisting the help of a reputable real estate agent. A professional agent can conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to assess recent sales data and provide you with an accurate estimate of your home’s value. By setting the right price from the start, you increase your chances of attracting motivated buyers and potentially receiving offers above your asking price.

02. You don’t look your best online – In today’s digital age, a significant portion of the home buying process occurs online. Homebuyers typically browse through listings on real estate websites and apps before deciding which properties to visit in person. If your online presence isn’t compelling, you may struggle to get potential buyers through your front door.

To enhance your online appeal, invest time and effort into preparing quality listing photos and virtual tours. Clean and declutter your home to make it appear more spacious and inviting. Consider hiring a professional photographer who specializes in real estate photography to capture your home’s best angles and natural light. Also, ensure that the listing description highlights the unique features and selling points of your property. The more appealing your online presentation, the more likely you are to attract serious buyers willing to make competitive offers.

03. You Haven’t Prepared for a Showing that Sell – First impressions matter, especially when it comes to selling a home. If you haven’t adequately prepared your property for showings, you might be missing out on opportunities to secure over-ask offers. Homebuyers want to envision themselves living in the space, and a well-prepared showing can help them connect emotionally with your home.

Start by addressing any necessary repairs and giving your home a fresh coat of paint if needed. Depersonalize the space by removing family photos and personal items, allowing buyers to imagine their own belongings in the house. Stage your home to showcase its full potential, using furniture and decor to highlight the best features of each room.

Furthermore, pay attention to the exterior of your home, as curb appeal is the first impression buyers have before entering. Keep the lawn manicured, clean the driveway and pathways, and add some potted plants or flowers for an inviting touch.

In conclusion, if you’re not receiving over-ask offers like your neighbor, consider these three reasons – pricing, online presentation, and home preparation. By addressing these factors strategically, you can increase the attractiveness of your property to potential buyers and enhance your chances of receiving competitive offers that exceed your asking price. Selling a home is a process that demands attention to detail, but with the right approach and an experienced agent, you can achieve a successful sale and move on to your next exciting chapter.

Ready to start your home selling journey? Visit us here!

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Scroll for more info and a full video tour

Have the best of both worlds! Live in the city but feel like you are in the countryside! A one-of-a-kind home in the city of Atlanta! Winner of Atlanta Urban Design Commission Award of Excellence. Originally, 2 1900 farm hand homes that were moved from Kennesaw and made into one home to make this amazing piece of property. The project took two and a half years to complete! Every part of the two homes that could be, was salvaged. 

The home sits back from the street with multiple indigenous plantings that bloom from early spring to late fall. Southern hospitality meets you with Hydrangeas, Magnolias, Azaleas, Rhododendrons and Camellias all blooming at different times. Entering the home, you will see original 1900 shiplap and the heart pine flooring that you simply can’t find today. To the left you will greet your guests in the parlor with an original wood burning fireplace. To the right you will find the large dining room containing built-in bookshelves and gas fireplace. In total there are 6 working fireplaces throughout the home. 

Moving to the rear of the main home, you enter the brick floored kitchen and art gallery. The kitchen boasts an 8×6 foot Carrera marble island, 48-inch ILVE Italian range with griddle and hidden 48-inch Subzero fridge. Truly this is a Chef’s kitchen that is built for entertaining! To the other side of home is a bedroom and bath on the main floor with soaring ceiling, original 1900 siding and original doors. 

Arriving upstairs you will see the gorgeous 12-inch heart pine flooring that leads out to your second story covered porch which is perfect for morning coffees. To the back is the office with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the beautiful brick courtyard. Upstairs is an additional secondary bedroom with working fireplace and full ensuite bath. Across from this is the owner’s suite with 2-sided fireplace, heart pine floors, custom California closets and beautiful Soaking tub. 

Once outside thru the brick courtyard you will see the oversized 2 car garage with tons of attic storage. Keep strolling to see the original 1930s home that now serves as an Au Pair or guest house. Approximately 800 square feet, this beautiful dwelling can serve as additional income, an in-law suite, or an office suite with its 1 bedroom, newly renovated kitchen, and great over all space. Recently added covered parking allows parking for 5 cars. 

2806 Alston Drive Atlanta GA 30317

To the right of the guest house, you will see the 14X28 heated Saltwater pool and Cabana with electrical, fan and tv. For those evening parties, the pool is surrounded by ground can lights that guide the way from the main home to the pool. Just past the pool is the pool house with bath, shower, and kitchenette. 

A fence separates the main property from the back property with perennials, peach trees, pear trees and blueberry bushes. Walk further and you will see a small garden and an additional grassy area perfect for Tennis courts, pickleball courts or a bocce ball court. New roofs, New HVAC, etc…The location cannot be beat overlooking the 1st green of East Lake Golf Club. Just a short stroll to Poor Hendrix, La Fonda, Perc Coffee, and Oakhurst. And just minutes to I-20, I75/85, The Airport, Drew Charter, and all of Decatur!

Interested in touring 2806 Alston Dr for yourself? Visit the listing page, here, and request a tour! We can’t wait to show you around! 

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4 Smart Home Features That Just Make Sense

01. Smart Thermostat – A Smart Thermostat is a game-changer when it comes to energy efficiency and cost savings. Unlike traditional thermostats, smart thermostats can learn your daily routines and preferences, automatically adjusting the temperature to optimize comfort and save energy. They can also be controlled remotely via a smartphone app, allowing you to adjust the temperature even when you’re away from home.

One of the most significant benefits of a smart thermostat is its ability to create personalized heating and cooling schedules. For instance, it can recognize when you typically leave for work and return home, adjusting the temperature accordingly. Additionally, some smart thermostats can integrate weather forecasts to anticipate changes in temperature and make adjustments proactively.

02. Security Cameras and Smart Locks – Home security is a top priority for homeowners, and smart cameras and locks provide an effective and convenient solution. Smart security cameras offer real-time monitoring, high-definition video quality, and even night vision capabilities. They can be accessed remotely through a smartphone or tablet, giving you peace of mind no matter where you are.

When integrated with smart locks, these cameras allow you to remotely grant access to trusted individuals, such as family members, friends, or delivery personnel. You can also receive notifications when someone approaches your front door, providing an added layer of security.

Smart locks themselves are a valuable addition to any home. They eliminate the need for physical keys by enabling keyless entry through a PIN code, smartphone app, or even biometric identification. This not only enhances security but also adds convenience, as you no longer need to worry about losing your keys or fumbling with locks.

03. Smart Alarms – Traditional home security systems often come with a complex web of wires and components, making installation and maintenance cumbersome. Smart alarms, on the other hand, are wireless, easy to set up, and highly customizable.

These alarms can be integrated with other smart home devices, such as motion sensors and security cameras, to provide comprehensive protection. If an intrusion is detected, you will receive instant alerts on your smartphone, allowing you to take appropriate action or notify the authorities if necessary.

Moreover, smart alarms can incorporate machine learning algorithms that adapt to your household’s patterns, reducing the likelihood of false alarms while ensuring maximum security.

04. Smart Lighting – Smart lighting systems offer both convenience and energy efficiency. With smart bulbs and switches, you can control the lighting in your home remotely, set schedules, and even change the color and intensity of the light to create different moods.

Having the ability to automate your lights can also improve home security. By setting up schedules to turn lights on and off while you’re away, you can give the illusion that someone is at home, deterring potential burglars.

Additionally, some smart lighting systems can integrate with other smart devices, such as motion sensors or smart assistants, to enable hands-free control. You can simply ask your smart assistant to turn on or dim the lights without lifting a finger.

As technology continues to advance, smart home features are becoming increasingly accessible and indispensable for modern homeowners. Smart Thermostats, Security Cameras and Smart Locks, Smart Alarms, and Smart Lighting are four essential components that just make sense, offering convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced security. Investing in these smart home features not only makes your life more comfortable but also gives you the peace of mind knowing that your home is safer, more efficient, and connected like never before. Click here to learn more about upgrading your home!

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Why Sage & Cedar may not be the listing team for you

01. Negotiating with other agents and their buyers – Who needs a skilled negotiator to navigate the treacherous waters of real estate deals? Certainly not you! Forget about those pesky negotiations and just let the buyers have their way. After all, it’s not like money is at stake or anything. Let’s leave your hard-earned dollars up to chance!

02. Communicating with lenders, other agents, closing attorneys, inspectors, appraisers, contractors, and so many others – Ah, the joy of juggling multiple phone calls, emails, and appointments. Who needs a real estate agent to handle all those pesky details? You’re a master multitasker, right? So what if you’re in a meeting and the deal is falling apart, you’ll get back to them tomorrow, if they haven’t terminated the contract by then…

03. Covering the cost of professional photography and marketing – Why bother spending money on professional photography and marketing when you can just snap a few iPhone pictures and post them on your favorite social media platform? Who cares about making a great first impression or attracting serious buyers? The blurry, poorly lit photos of your house will surely do the trick!

Why Sage & Cedar may not be the listing team for you

04. Attending appointments, making phone calls, answering emails, hosting open houses, etc – What fun spending hours on end attending appointments, making endless phone calls, answering countless emails, and hosting open houses. Why would you want to delegate these soul-crushing tasks to a real estate agent when you can do it all yourself? After all, who needs a social life or any semblance of sanity anyway? You were looking for a challenge, right?

05. Knowing the market in the neighborhood you are selling in. Knowing how to read and use current market data – Who needs market knowledge when you can rely on your gut feeling? Forget about understanding the trends, analyzing market data, and pricing your home competitively. It’s all just a wild guessing game, and you, my friend, are a natural-born guesser!

So there you have it, folks—a foolproof guide to sabotaging your home sale. Hiring a real estate agent is for amateurs! Why would you want someone with experience, expertise, and a proven track record to help you navigate the complicated world of real estate when you can stumble around in the dark like a blindfolded toddler?

JUST KIDDING – We are full of jokes here at Sage & Cedar. Listing your home for sale is a full time job, and an agent with experience is necessary for success. Want to learn more about working with a Sage & Cedar agent? Visit us here!

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6-8 Months to Secure Your Dream Home

01. Financial Preparedness – One of the primary reasons to start planning for a home purchase several months in advance is to ensure financial readiness. Buying a home involves various costs, including down payments, closing costs, and moving expenses. By giving yourself enough time, you can assess your current financial situation, set a realistic budget, and work towards improving your credit score if necessary. Saving money, paying off debts, and establishing a strong credit history are all crucial steps that can help you secure a favorable mortgage and increase your chances of getting pre-approved for a loan.

02. Research & Education – Real estate markets can be complex and ever-changing, so conducting thorough research and educating yourself about the process is invaluable. Starting your home buying journey early allows you ample time to explore different neighborhoods, understand property values, and familiarize yourself with the local housing market. By being proactive in your research, you can identify trends, assess market conditions, and make informed decisions when the time comes to make an offer. Moreover, you can take advantage of online resources, attend open houses, and consult with real estate professionals (like us at Sage & Cedar) to gain valuable insights into the home buying process.

03. Connecting with a Real Estate Agent – By starting your planning 6-8 months ahead of time, you can take the opportunity to connect with a real estate agent, mortgage lenders, and other industry experts. Professionals like us can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide valuable advice. Developing these relationships early on will allow you to establish a rapport, gain access to off-market listings, and potentially secure better deals when the time comes to make an offer.

The Importance of Early Home Buying Planning

04. Time for Pre-Approval and Mortgage Shopping – Obtaining pre-approval for a mortgage is an essential step before house hunting. Pre-approval provides you with a clear understanding of your purchasing power and strengthens your position when negotiating with sellers. Starting the process early gives you ample time to research different mortgage options, compare interest rates, and choose a lender that best suits your needs. By securing pre-approval, you can streamline the home buying process, eliminate potential financing hurdles, and ensure a smoother transaction.

05. Finding Your Dream Home – The home search process can be time-consuming, especially if you have specific requirements or preferences.During this time you can browse listings, attend open houses, and schedule viewings at your desired pace. Rushing into a decision could lead to regret or settling for a property that doesn’t meet your needs. By giving yourself sufficient time, you can thoroughly explore the market, visit multiple properties, and ultimately find the home that aligns with your budget, location, and lifestyle.

Embarking on the journey to buy a home is an exciting yet complex process that requires careful planning. By starting the planning phase 6-8 months ahead of time, you lay a solid foundation for a successful home purchase. Financial preparedness, thorough research, building relationships with professionals, securing pre-approval, and allowing ample time for the home search are all crucial elements that contribute to a smooth and satisfying home buying experience. Ready to take the leap? Visit us here to schedule a one on one buyer meeting with a Sage & Cedar professional!

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Home Warranty:

A home warranty is a service contract that provides coverage for repairs or replacements of major household systems and appliances. It acts as a form of protection against unexpected breakdowns due to normal wear and tear. Home warranties are typically purchased for a specific period, usually one year, and can be renewed annually.

Home warranties typically cover a range of systems and appliances, such as HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, electrical systems, water heaters, kitchen appliances, and more. When a covered item malfunctions or breaks down, the homeowner can contact the warranty provider, who will arrange for a qualified technician to repair or replace the item, usually for a small service fee

Benefits:

01. Financial Protection: Home warranties provide homeowners with peace of mind by offering financial protection against unexpected repair costs, which can be a significant relief, especially for older homes or appliances.

02. Convenience: With a home warranty, homeowners can rely on a network of pre-screened service providers, saving time and effort in finding reputable technicians. The warranty company handles the coordination of repairs, simplifying the process for the homeowner.

Limitations:

01. Limited Coverage: Home warranties have specific coverage limits and exclusions. Pre-existing conditions, improper maintenance, or neglect may not be covered. It is important to read the contract carefully to understand the terms and conditions.

02. Service Fees: While the warranty covers the cost of repairs or replacements, homeowners often have to pay a service fee or deductible for each service call, which can vary depending on the warranty provider.

Homeowners Insurance:

Homeowners insurance, on the other hand, is a type of insurance policy designed to protect the structure of your home and your personal belongings from covered perils, such as fire, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. It is typically required by mortgage lenders and provides coverage for unexpected events that cause damage or loss to your property.

Homeowners insurance covers the physical structure of your home, including walls, roofs, and other attached structures, as well as personal belongings such as furniture, appliances, and electronics. It also provides liability coverage in case someone is injured on your property and you are legally responsible for their injuries.

Benefits:

01. Dwelling Protection: Homeowners insurance provides coverage for repairing or rebuilding your home in the event of covered perils, ensuring financial protection against significant damage or destruction.

02. Personal Property Coverage: In case of theft, fire, or other covered events, homeowners insurance can help replace damaged or stolen personal belongings, such as furniture, clothing, or electronics.

Limitations:

01. Specific Perils: Homeowners insurance typically covers specific perils mentioned in the policy. It may not cover damage caused by floods, earthquakes, or routine wear and tear. Additional coverage or separate policies may be required for such events.

02. Deductibles and Premiums: Homeowners insurance policies usually have deductibles, which means homeowners are responsible for paying a certain amount out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. Premiums can also vary depending on factors like location, coverage limits, and the homeowner’s claims history.

A home warranty primarily covers the repair or replacement of major systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear, while homeowners insurance protects against specific perils that can cause damage to the structure of the home and personal belongings. It is essential for homeowners to evaluate their needs and consider both options to ensure comprehensive coverage for their valuable assets. Ready to take the next step into homeownership? Visit us here to connect with a S&C agent!

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5 ways to increase your homes value

01. Make a Larger Down Payment – Building equity starts right from the moment you purchase your home. By putting down a substantial amount upfront, you reduce the loan amount and decrease the interest you’ll pay over time. A higher down payment also means starting with a lower loan-to-value ratio, which can help you avoid PMI and reduce your monthly expenses.

02. Home Renovations and Improvements – One of the most effective ways to increase your home’s value and build equity is through renovations and improvements. Focus on upgrades that offer a high ROI. This could include kitchen and bathroom remodels, adding a deck or patio, updating flooring, or enhancing curb appeal with landscaping.

03. Regular Maintenance and Repairs – Maintaining your home in good condition is not only essential for your comfort and safety but also for preserving and increasing its value. Conduct regular inspections and address any necessary repairs promptly. Simple tasks can go a long way in maintaining and enhancing your home’s equity.

5 ways to help build equity

04. Pay Down Your Mortgage Faster – If your property has additional space or a separate unit, consider renting it out. Another effective strategy for building equity is to accelerate your mortgage payments. Consider making bi-weekly or additional monthly payments to reduce the principal amount faster. Before making additional payments, confirm with your lender if there are any prepayment penalties or restrictions.

05. Take Advantage of Appreciation – In a growing real estate market, property values tend to appreciate over time. By keeping an eye on market trends, you can capitalize on the natural appreciation of your home’s value. By monitoring market trends, you can choose the right time to sell or refinance, maximizing your equity gains.

Building equity in your home requires a combination of strategic planning and consistent effort. By making a larger down payment, undertaking smart renovations, maintaining your property, paying down your mortgage faster, and taking advantage of market appreciation, you can steadily increase your home’s value and your equity position. Ready to connect with a S&C agent, stay informed about local market trends, and make informed decisions that align with your long-term financial goals? Connect with us here!

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Summer Home Maintenance Checklist

01. Check and Clean Your Outdoor Water Features: Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your outdoor water features, whether it’s a pool, pond, or fountain. However, these elements require regular maintenance to keep them clean and functional. Here’s what you need to do:

Pool: Check the pool water chemistry, clean the filters, and ensure the pump and other equipment are working correctly. Remove debris, skim the surface, and vacuum the pool regularly.

Pond: Inspect the pond for any signs of damage or leaks. Clean out accumulated leaves, algae, and debris. Consider adding beneficial bacteria to maintain water quality and balance.

Fountain: Clean the fountain pump, remove debris from the water basin, and inspect the fountain for any blockages or damage. Consider adding a fountain cleaner or algaecide to prevent the growth of algae.

02. Inspect and Clean Your Air Conditioning System: Summer heat calls for a well-functioning air conditioning system. To ensure your AC keeps you cool throughout the season, follow these steps:

Clean or replace air filters: Clogged filters reduce airflow and strain your system. Clean or replace filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Clear debris around the condenser unit: Remove any debris, leaves, or vegetation that may obstruct the airflow around the outdoor condenser unit.

Check the thermostat: Ensure your thermostat is functioning correctly and set to the desired temperature. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for increased energy efficiency.

Schedule professional maintenance: Consider hiring a professional to inspect and service your AC system to identify any potential issues before they turn into costly repairs.

Keeping Your Home in Tip Top Shape

03. Inspect and Maintain Your Sprinkler System: A lush, green lawn enhances the beauty of your home during the summer. Proper maintenance of your sprinkler system will help keep your lawn looking its best. Follow these steps:

Check for leaks or damaged sprinkler heads: Inspect your sprinkler system for any leaks, broken heads, or misaligned sprayers. Replace or repair as needed.

Adjust the sprinkler coverage: Ensure that the sprinkler heads are directing water where it’s needed and not wasting it on sidewalks or driveways. Adjust the coverage pattern if necessary.

Set a watering schedule: Adjust the watering schedule to account for seasonal changes. Avoid overwatering by adhering to local watering restrictions and using moisture sensors or smart controllers to optimize water usage.

04. Clean and Organize Your Garage or Storage Area: Summer is a great time to declutter and organize your garage or storage area, making it more functional and efficient. Here are some steps to get you started:

Sort and declutter: Remove any items you no longer need or use. Donate, sell, or dispose of them responsibly.

Clean the space: Sweep the floors, dust off shelves, and wipe down any surfaces. Consider pressure washing the garage floor for a fresh, clean look.

Organize and label: Invest in storage solutions such as shelves, bins, and hooks to keep items neatly organized. Label boxes and containers to make it easier to find things when needed.

Check garage door functionality: Inspect the garage door for any signs of wear and tear. Lubricate hinges and rollers, and ensure the door operates smoothly. Consider scheduling a professional inspection to address any issues.

By following this summer home maintenance checklist, you’ll be able to enjoy the season worry-free, knowing that your home is in excellent shape. Regularly checking and maintaining outdoor water features, air conditioning systems, sprinklers, and organizing your storage area will not only save you from costly repairs but also enhance your overall home experience. Make the most of the sunny days and ensure your home is a cool and comfortable retreat this summer. Want to stay up to date on all news & resources? SIgn up for our newsletter at the top of this page!

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