As we head into winter, it’s time to make sure your Lake Martin home is prepped for the season! As your Lake Martin real estate team, we’re here to offer you some suggestions for this time of year, so you have a smooth, relaxing winter in your lake house. Come spring, everything will be good to go and ready for an exciting summer at the lake!
Brighten Home – This can make your home feel happier during the dark winter months, and it can make it warmer during the day, and save you on your energy bill! A few tricks you could try is to remove the screens from your windows, allowing more light to stream in. Clean the windows and keep your curtains and blinds open during the day, especially in south facing windows. Replace burnt out bulbs and opt for LED lights, which give off a whiter, brighter look than incandescent bulbs. Hang mirrors where light can bounce off of them. Decorate for Christmas! Decorate a tree, hang strands of lights along a staircase or a fireplace mantel, and decorate the outside. It’s bright and cheerful!
Lawn Care – Though it might seem strange, the way you care for your lawn in the fall could make or break your lawn in the spring. Before the dead of winter hits, consider aerating the lawn, which allows the lawn to breathe and provides room for new grass. The best time to seed your lawn is when the soil temperature is around 55 degrees. A late fall fertilization can help your grass survive a harsh winter and encourages a green, lush lawn in the spring. Rather than raking leaves, consider mulching them with your mower. The shredded leaves can actually protect your grass from winter elements. More info on fall lawn care is available in this article.
Fireplace Maintenance – Before having your first fire in the fireplace this season, give it some maintenance and a checkup. Examine the firebox for any signs of wear in the lining. Look for smoke stains. Check the chimney. Call in professionals for assistance checking these things, if you’re not sure what you’re looking for, or to have something inspected or repaired if you find issues. Make sure your grate is the right size. Clean out last year’s ashes and wood if you haven’t. Make sure your fire extinguisher is on hand just in case!
These are great tips to get you started! Also check out DIY insulation tips if you’d like to warm up your house even more, and check out these tips on how to flu-proof your home this season, so your family remains healthy.  If you’re leaving for winter, here’s how to ensure that your pipes don’t freeze while you’re away.
Enjoy cozying up with blankets and hot cocoa this winter! Keep up with our blog posts for holiday event updates for the Lake Martin community. When you’re ready to achieve your Lake Martin real estate market goals, contact us, the Haynie Team! We work year-round to ensure your real estate success at Lake Martin.
Becky Haynie, Associate Broker / Realtor
Lake Martin Realty
www.HomeOnLakeMartin.com