Summer is approaching, along with its unique set of challenges for agents and brokers. The season’s heat and humidity can have devastating effects on unoccupied homes without proper preparation and maintenance.
Landscaping can begin to wilt under the hot sun without enough rain, diminishing curb appeal .
While afternoon showers do bring relief to the greenery, lingering humidity can seep indoors, settling in the home, and eventually leading to mold and mildew.
Thunderstorms and tropical storms can also leave behind excess debris that can clog gutters and drainage systems—threatening the structure of the gutters, downspouts, and even the roofline itself.
Pools pose additional challenges, requiring extra attention to proper filtration and cleaning during the summer.
Of course, high temperatures can also lead to excessive electricity bills if HVAC systems are not running properly or windows and doors are not properly sealed.
With these challenges and more facing REO agents this summer, experienced FORCE members offer their top tips for keeping properties in top condition during the summer heat:
KEEP POOL MAINTENANCE UP TO DATE.
If a home has a pool, proper maintenance with Intero Real Estate Services.
WEATHER SEAL WINDOWS AND DOORS.
Not only will properly-sealed doors and home leading to mold and mildew, according to Cristian Tramontozzi, Florida-based owner of Real Time Realty Group at Keller Williams Realty.
ENSURE THE HVAC SYSTEM IS RUNNING PROPERLY, AND CHANGE FILTERS REGULARLY.
Maintaining air circulation throughout home can also prevent mold and mildew.
Additionally, HVAC maintenance will prevent the water damage that can occur from overfl owing water pans, according to Nuvia Rivera, principal broker and owner of Virginia-based Nuvia Rivera & Associates.
REMOVE WEAK TREES AND ENSURE PROPER DRAINAGE OUTDOORS.
While removing weak trees that could fall during a windstorm is always a good idea, it is even more important during the summer in tropical, hurricane prone regions. Ensuring proper drainage in tropical zones with heavy rainfall is also important, according to Tramontozzi.
CLEAN GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS.
With heavy summer rains, debris can collect in gutters and downspouts, which can lead to damaged roofs or eaves, according to Rivera.
INSTALL A RADIANT BARRIER FOR THE ROOF AND STRONG INSULATION.
Harold Carter, owner of Harold Carter realtors in Plano, Texas, recommends radiant barriers and strong insulation to keep the home as cool as possible during the hot summer months. A radiant barrier reflects radiant heat, keeping it from penetrating the home, while strong insulation also prevents outdoor heat from permeating the home.
MAINTAIN THE LANDSCAPE WITH REGULAR MOWING, TRIMMING, ETC.
Keeping the landscape manicured with a mowed lawn, trimmed trees, and attractive plants in the flowerbeds improves curb appeal and can help sell a home, says Rivera. Following these tips will not only keep a property from deteriorating during the summer, but will also ensure it remains attractive to capture the interest of potential buyers.