In this area, most of us know of someone who plans to head south for the winter. When I meet these people I’m often surprised at how uneasy they are when they talk about leaving their homes.
And then I find out why.
“My sister checks on the house…but not often. She lives an hour away, so it isn’t very convenient for her, especially if we need a repair done.”
“Our housekeeper walks through it a couple times a month; but she lives in Tacoma and I feel badly she has to come so far in the middle of the night when the alarm goes off.”
“Our neighbors took care of it last year; but all my plants died and there was a water leak that wasn’t discovered.”
We’ve all heard the stories of pests moving in to the pantry for the winter. Or thieves noticing the unattended yard and unchanged curtains and lights.
Worrying about these possibilities creates stress and recovering from these damages takes time and money. Take steps now to increase your protection.
Hiring a professional Home Manager can offer you the assurance that in your absence, your home will be protected, maintained and cared for above and beyond the simple drive-by offered by your neighbors.
A Home Manager will complete regular home inspections of the interior and exterior, and you should receive a copy of this report – along with pictures – after each visit. Your plants will be cared for, your vehicles started if desired, and your yard maintenance kept on schedule so that your home doesn’t appear vacant.
Most Home Managers also offer to be your first point of contact for the Security Alarm Company, and will check on your home after a significant storm.
If any issues arise at your home, a Home Manager can schedule and oversee repairs on your behalf, therefore avoiding the need to inconvenience friends with these tasks.
There is a lot to think about when preparing to leave for the winter. Make sure that you have chosen someone who has experience as a trustworthy advocate for homeowners, and who offers personal and customized service. Most importantly, your Home Manager should be licensed, bonded and insured.
Your home is your castle: give it the attention it deserves. And then you can rest easy. After all, you’re on vacation!
For more information on how to prepare your home for winter, visit www.GigHarborHomeManagement.com or contact us directly at (253)225-4864.
LIKE us on www.facebook.com/gigharborhomemanagement to receive the most recent blog updates on caring for your home.
