5 Ways to Show Your House Some Love This Valentine’s Day

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Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Love it or hate it, there’s no escaping it. But this year, instead of agonizing over the perfect gift for your sweetheart, why not share that love with your home?

Here are some surefire ways to show your home how much you care:

1. Enter the Attic: Sure, it’s creepy and no one really likes to go up there, but it’s very important to know what’s going on in your attic. Check your HVAC units to make sure there isn’t any water in the pan, and while you’re up there, check that your ductwork is intact. You should also look out for any damp spots around the attic. If it’s damp now, later it could worsen into a leak – and future frustration from water damage. If you have exposed insulation, also look for any small animal droppings because mice, chipmunks, and squirrels like to cozy up there in the winter. If necessary, contact a HVAC specialist and/or pest control to manage any issues that arise.
2. Time to Vent: Whether you’ve got forced air ceiling vents, baseboard, or a combination, it’s time to remove that layer of dust. Every time the unit kicks on, it’s pushing that stuff right into your home. To further help your home (and lungs) remember to change the air filters in your intake vents every few months, along with giving them a good dusting. Don’t forget to check the outside vents (including dryer vents) too and make sure there aren’t any gaps where critters could get through.
3. Shower Scene: Simply put, water damage is scary. Some tips to keep in mind include checking the grout in your heavily used showers and baths. It can easily wear and chip off, which can lead to leaks behind tiles that you may never even see until it causes a leak or mold somewhere else. If you have bathrooms that barely get used, be sure you run all the water occasionally, including flushing toilets, to prevent pests or even outside odors from entering your home.
4. Perimeter Check: Whether you hire a professional or DIY, it’s a good time to check your landscaping. If you have any perennials like rose bushes or day lilies, trim those dead pieces down. It looks a lot better, plus it’s easier and healthier for the plants when it’s time to regrow in spring. Yet another culprit in the fight against water damage is mulch – make sure it’s graded away from the house walls to keep moisture out. Finally, check those gutters; they’re an easy spot for water to sit. You may even consider gutter guards as a more long-term solution, especially if you live in a wooded area.
5. Embrace the Cliché: Why not spoil your home a bit with something pretty? Many of the go-to Valentine’s Day gifts can also work in the home. Flowers brighten up a room in any season; check out local florists who have subscription plans and you can have a fresh arrangement delivered right to your door on a regular basis.

About Maryanne:

Maryanne Elsaesser is known for individualized strategic planning and solving complex matters with calmness. Her clients say she is a "brilliant negotiator," tenacious, helpful, smart, creative, focused and has an amazing ability to read people. Consistent hard work puts Maryanne in the top 1% of brokers in the country. Maryanne is well-versed in contractual elements and understands the intricacies of navigating the most profitable net gain in each transaction. She can be reached at 551.206.9264 or maryanne.elsaesser@gmail.com.

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