Whether it’s your first home or your fifth, every home buyer is unique. But something all home buyers have in common is a desire to care for their home. These home care tips are offered as part of the home buying information.

Winter

Remove ice from roof and gutters;
Change filter on heater;
Clear drains of mud and debris;
Reduce heater by 5 degrees to save up to 30% on heating;
Install energy efficient lights to save electricity and money.

Spring

Weed and feed lawns, especially in early spring;
Open hose lines when the danger of freezing and frost is gone;
Clean smoke detectors and change carbon monoxide batteries;
Keep window weep holes clear of dirt and lubricate as necessary.

Summer

Re-install screens if they were removed;
Water lawns as necessary and required;
Clean gutters and drains of any dirt and debris;
Change filter of air handler (heater);
Fertilize grounds with drought resistant mix and grub inhibitors.

Fall

Remove screens and store them;
Change filter on heater;
Free gutters, drains and inlets of debris and lubricate as necessary;
Winterize irrigation systems, where applicable;
Check and clean smoke detector and carbon monoxide batteries;
Fertilize lawn with winter mix;
Maintain caulking and grouting in all areas to avoid water damage;
Fill-in low spots around house foundation to ensure water drains away from house;
Service heating and air conditioning systems;
Drain and flush water heater.

A home buyer who follows these guidelines will be well prepared to keep and maintain a quality, cost-efficient home.