As a Real Estate Investor I have been through hundreds of homes over the years.  At times I see a home in such deplorable condition I just can’t help to wonder how the home arrived at it’s state.  The simple answer to my question is the lack of maintenance and required repairs.

There are simple things that can be done that will help prevent large repair bills down the road.  Preventative maintenance will ensure your investment will bear fruit someday. 

* Turn off water supply to outside hose bibs in the winter
* Change furnace filters  (monthly)
* Check batteries in smoke detectors and check for proper function
* Clean leaves out of gutters
* Perform annual root treatments with products such as Root X
* Trim trees and bushes to prevent damage to roof and siding.
* Have furnace cleaned annually.
* Check for proper function of all faucets and check for leaks.
* Check roof condition and shingles before winter to help prevent winter leaks.
* Check for chipping, pealing paint and repaint as necessary.
* Fertilize lawns to prevent having to resod or reseed at a future date.

Instead of waiting until the ceiling falls in from a roof leak it would be a lot less expensive to repair/replace a roof prior to it leaking.   Years ago I had a ceiling fall in from a roof leak caused by a hole in the roof from a tree branch of a neglected tree plus the roof was in poor condition.  If I had kept the tree trimmed and inspected the roof I would not have had to replace the attic insulation, repair the ceiling, replace the carpet and repaint the home.  A lesson learned!

Chris Yatooma, President
Real Estate Investors Association of Oakland