Top tips for preparing your home this summer

The warmer weather is finally here and it is time to start thinking about all those summer jobs.

Whether you hope to sell in the future, carry out extension or renovation work or just carry on living there worry free, it is essential to keep on top of your home.

Make a list of everything you hope to achieve with your property this summer and work out which jobs you intend to do yourself and which will require contractors.

Tidy your garden

This is the time of year your garden starts coming into its own – and can get out of control if you don’t maintain it.

Mow lawns, trim hedges and weed beds. Think about what you can plant to keep your garden as low maintenance as possible.

Sweep and wash down paths and patio areas – and garden furniture might also need to be cleaned.

Add a few colourful containers for extra interest.

General maintenance

Clear any rubbish that has blown in from the road and tidy up bin areas.

Gates, fences, windows and even the front door might need a lick of paint.

Take a tour of the property to check whether autumn and winter have left their mark.

Clear gutters, look for any water damage and check pipes, render and plaster for any cracks.

Inspect your roof to see if you have lost any tiles.

Check the boiler and get the chimney swept if you have one.

Spring clean

Summer might be on the way already but if you didn’t have a chance to do a big spring clean now might be the time to do it!

Decluttering and deep cleaning the whole place could really transform it and will help you to spot any internal problems.

Open windows to give the property a good airing and then tackle it from top to bottom.

Whether you clean it yourself or you employ professionals, give every room a thorough dust, vacuum and scrub through.

Freshen up your décor

With the arrival of summer you might wish to brighten up the interior of your property.

Paint walls in neutral shades, keep ceilings white and consider removing heavy curtains and blinds in favour of something bright and breezy.

Draw up a longer term list

Finally, think about what you want to achieve with your property over the next 12 months.

If you are considering renovation, extension or conversion work, think about making that first appointment with an architect.

He or she could be coming up with some exciting ideas and if you decide to go ahead then plans could be submitted so you are ready when you would like work to begin.