You’ve got “the list.” Every homeowner does. That running mental tally of all the things you need to be doing to keep your investment in tip-top shape. With time at a premium, it can be overwhelming to decide what to tackle first. Well, we’ve got some expert advice that may help lighten your load…
Tip #1 – Kitchens and baths…
The old adage “kitchens and baths sell homes” is absolutely true. Even if you aren’t looking to put your home on the market anytime soon, keeping these rooms functioning properly will extend their life AND your enjoyment during regular use. A couple drops of a grease-cutting dish detergent in warm water with 1/4 cup of white vinegar is the time-tested solution to quickly cut through everything you didn’t know was there while not stripping the wood (be it painted or stained). Just be careful not to drench your cloth, but wash with a damp rag while channeling your inner Mr. Miyagi. If you have stained wood cabinets, this is a great time to also condition them. Allow ample time for drying (a couple hours to be safe) & follow up with a moisturizing product like #OldEnglish or #RegencyGold & viola! Good as (almost) new! Don’t forget to add your bath cabinets into this project; they too need attention and while you have all the materials out, why not?
A huge “high-value” update that won’t steal time? New hardware! A favorite local gem is #ModernHardware. Their on-hand experts can assist you or you can roam free in the “by the piece” section of baubles for your doors and drawers…be sure to take a notepad and very accurate “center to center” measurements for different sizes you may need, ensuring smooth re-installation and saving yourself a headache later on.
Tip #2 – Landscape…
Curb appeal is real. Is there any better way to get a functional workout, enjoy nature AND enhance the value of your largest investment than with some time spent beautifying your yard? We think not! Take stock of areas that seem sparse (or need thinned out) and head to your local garden center like #Flowerland or #RomenceGardens with some photos and talk with their experts about some great native options to add color or privacy where desired. Weeding, trimming and fertilizing are all still possible for late May in Michigan – so take advantage of our zone 6b status and get that flora and fauna thriving! An instant visual upgrade is fresh mulch, which also extends the life of your plants & flowers, offering them protection from the elements and better moisture control throughout the growing season.
Tip #3 – Inside Options…
While we all hope the weather is gorgeous, it’s always good to have an ace in the hole when it comes to balancing your holiday weekend. Have you been thinking of a closet system, overall better organization, or feeling the urge to purge for garage sale or donation to a local charity? Spring is the perfect time for any and all of this! And the long weekend gives you the opportunity to feel good about being productive AND relaxing…win-win! If a closet system project is extensive (& they can be), our friends at West Michigan Doors & Closets are just the experts to ask. If culling through labels to discard out of date items and some baskets will do to accomplish organization of a pantry or bath closet, then you’ve just won the weekend! Focusing on one area in your home that you know needs attention is still a great step. Like that linen closet that makes it hard to close the door, perhaps?
Whatever you decide to tackle this weekend, we hope you can do so in the spirit of gratitude and remembrance for all that we have and all that we enjoy as a result of the dedication and sacrifice of those precious friends and family who’ve served this great nation. We wish you a happy start of summer and welcome pictures of your projects!