Eight Property Management Items to Do Before the New Year

Homeownership in New Orleans is very different than most other cities. Our winter is mild which makes it a great time of year to do some exterior projects when work is slower and many people are taking time off for the holidays. As you spend time with your families, carve out a little bit of time to care for your home. 

1. Change Batteries in Your Smoke Detector 

This is probably the single most important 5-minute task you can do to keep your family safe. Swap out the batteries in the smoke detector and test them to ensure they are working properly. Did you know that smoke detectors have an expiration date? Many smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years, some combo detectors (CO and Smoke) need to be replaced after 5-7 years. 

2. Change Air Filters 

It's something that always slips our minds. The New Year is a great time to check and clean filters. You can even go one step further and schedule an AC professional to come out and clean the ducts. Read the replacement instructions on your filter and set reminders in your phone for future replacement dates. 

3. Check Exterior for Rotted Wood 

While you're up on a ladder putting up or taking down holiday lights, check the facia and soffit for any signs of rot. Enjoy hot cocoa on the porch and survey the railing, handrails, and columns for any needed repairs. If any of that wood is in good shape but exposed, a coat of paint can not only add curb appeal but will protect the wood for the harsher weather ahead. 

4. Clean Out Gutters 

While you're up on the ladder taking down (or putting up) holiday lights, make sure your gutters are clear of debris and in good working order. Clogged gutters can create overtopping and trap water damaging the gutters and fascia boards. Pick a temperate day to clean the gutters of any leaves and other debris. 

5. Review Homeowner and Flood Insurance Policies  

Did your home's value increase (spoiler: it probably did!). Review your insurances to make sure you have the proper amount of coverage.

Reviewing your flood insurance policy and renewing it before it expires is more important this year than ever before. Major changes were made to the national flood insurance program. Policies that lapse will see a huge spike in premiums whereas renewals of flood policies will see a modest increase. 

6. Check Door and Window Seals 

In New Orleans, we normally see the majority of our cold weather after the New Year. Take some time to inspect door jams and window seals. Replace worn-out door sweeps and weather sealings with new ones and replace ill-fitted doors and windows. You can also buy a door snake now before the cold weather hits to keep your home from being super drafty. 

7. Swap Simple Design Items for a Fresh Start 

Design on a dime. The New Year is a great time to freshen up your space. You can give a space a makeover in a matter of hours by swapping out design items such as throw pillows, duvet covers, coffee tables, and a rug. Or, go one step further and put a new coat of paint on the walls for a true transformation. 

8. Deep Clean Your Space 

Nothing feels better than a clean house. In the Philipines, the New Year is said to bring in good luck and it is considered bad luck to clean your house on New Year's Day because you will "sweep up" all the good luck. Spending some time deep cleaning your house before the clock strikes midnight might bring you good luck. At the very least, you have a sparkling clean house for the New Year!  This is also a great time to organize closets and donate items you no longer need.