Your North Shore Homeowner To-Do List for March

March has arrived and before we know it, the birds will be singing, the grass will be green again and the weather will finally warm up. But before we can get there, there are a few tasks you will want to cross off of your North Shore homeowner to-do list— cleaning your gutters, for instance.

Below are four tasks to add to your homeowner to-do list this month and you will be ready to enjoy the spring season ahead!

Clean your gutters
Leaves and debris are likely built up in your gutters at the moment and if not tended to, can cause a variety of problems both inside and outside of your North Shore home. Take a weekend to clean out the gutters and flush water through to ensure the spouts are in proper working order.

Repair cracks in walkways
It is not uncommon for the winter to bring about cracks and gaps in your sidewalks and driveway. Use a sealant to fill these gaps and prevent further cracking, not to mention keep trips and falls at bay!

Caulk windows and doors
Check around windows and doors for any caulking that may have been damaged over the winter and repair if necessary. As spring weather tends to bring more rain than usual, you will want to ensure that no water is able to get inside.

Clean your home's exterior
No matter if you're staying put or planning to move to a new home on Chicago's North Shore, cleaning your home's exterior is a must this March. Consider renting a pressure washer to spray away any dirt and grime that may have built up on your siding over the winter and doing the same to your deck or patio area. These two small tasks will do wonders for curb appeal and impressing buyers!

Every North Shore homeowner is looking forward to the spring season, but especially those who are interested in selling! Give me a call today for more information about listing your home in the Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park areas or for next steps about preparing your property for today's buyers.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
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Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

What Not to Do When Landscaping Your North Shore Home This Summer

Summer has officially begun here on the North Shore and we're all looking forward to spending some much-needed time in the sun! If you're a homeowner, you might even be ready to tackle your yard and landscaping as an activity that lets you enjoy the weather and boosts your curb appeal.

But before you start digging and watering, it's important to mind these few tips that will allow your garden and lawn to flourish without over—or under—doing it.

Don't water unless necessary

While you may be tempted to grab your garden hose and dust off the sprinkler, instead you'll want to reevaluate your strategy. Only water your plants after they've just been planted, when the dirt looks a little dry in your garden or if you see plants wilting or losing leaves.

One rule of thumb to remember: Don't water in the afternoon in Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook or the surrounding areas. Watering your plants during the hottest part in the day will cause most of the moisture to evaporate. 

Don't leave the garden alone

Unpredictable weather, heat, pests and other variables can take a toll on your garden and lawn very quickly. Pay attention to the forecast and adjust your watering schedule accordingly, watch for plants that may be overgrowing the rest and if necessary, pull them out.

Don't let weeds bloom

The price to pay for a beautiful garden and lawn this summer is pulling weeds. You will want to pull them as soon as they make an appearance or they could seed and bloom, spreading rapidly all over your hard summer's work!

Don't cut your lawn too short

Another rule of thumb when mowing your lawn is to cut high. Cutting too short will promote weeds, shallow roots, irregular patches and a tendency to dry out.

Don't skip the fertilizer

There is no harm in fertilizing your lawn this summer, in fact, it's encouraged! Find a fertilizer suited for your lawn type and follow the instructions for application using a handheld or spreader. Although, you will want to avoid fertilizing on hot days where temperatures rise above 85.

Summer curb appeal is a major factor for home sellers on Chicago's North Shore and in fact, it can be what attracts buyers to your property in the first place! Give me a call today for more tips and information about selling your home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook or the surrounding areas!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
Visit My Website

Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.