When you own a vacation lake house, it’s a peaceful retreat from busy home life. I hear people constantly tell me that when they start the 90 minute drive to Pickwick, the stress starts to melt away. However, the last thing you want is to arrive and be stressed out by maintenance issues when you open the door.
Your lake home needs the proper care and upkeep to have it be enjoyable every time you visit. Follow these home maintenance tips to avoid problems while you’re away.
Unplug Your Appliances
Save power and reduce the risk of fire by unplugging counter top appliances (like the toaster or coffee pot) every time you depart your lake house. Take it a step further and turn off power to the fuse box altogether if you plan to be gone for an extended period of time.
Turn Off Main Gas Or Water Valves
Gas and water leaks are the main things that cause damage while away. Imagine the supply line to the toilet going bad, and before you know it, the whole place is flooded. Turning off the main water valve to the house will prevent a minor leak from causing major damage. Also, be sure to flip the fuse switch on the hot water heater and ice makers so they don’t run constantly while you are away.
Temperature Control
The home’s temperature should adjust with the seasons. Ideally, get a smart thermostat so you can adjust on your phone as temperatures fluctuate. If the interior gets too moist or overheated, mold and rust could build up. We all know that “musty” smell of a lake house where air hasn’t circulated in quite some time. When spring comes, turn the fan on the HVAC system or invest in ceiling fans to begin circulating the air before guests come.
Vacuum Seal Containers
You want to leave the weekend necessities like coffee, flour, and sugar, but you’ll want these in vacuum seal containers so they stay fresh and keep the bugs out. Remember, everyone loves lake life, even unwanted guests.
Know Your Neighbors
Get to know local neighbors and ask them to keep an eye on your place. When showing property in Pickwick, I always look for local car tags nearby and check the county assessor to see who to introduce my clients to when they finally select a house. Leave an extra key for them and give them your phone number to contact in case something comes up.
Click here to learn more about me and how I can help you with your real estate needs. Whether Memphis or Pickwick, primary home or investment, I’m happy to offer my services. Contact me at 901-468-7030 or Marygrodskyrealtor@gmail.com.
Mary Grodsky, Crye-Leike Realtors
E: Marygrodskyrealtor@gmail.com
C: 901-468-7030
O: 901-756-8900
