Home Maintenance – The Real Estate Beat

9 Interior Paint Colors Buyers Hate—and What to Use Instead – Shared Article

Picking colors is one of my favorite parts of helping my selling clients prepare for sale. I enjoyed this article by Quincy Bulin.

Getting ready to sell your home? Don’t put it on the market before checking these interior paint colors buyers hate.

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Photo: Laurey Glenn

Interior Paint Colors Buyers Hate

There’s a lot that can turn someone off while house hunting—damage, clutter and curb appeal, to name a few. One of the easiest and most high-impact changes to make is repainting your walls. But what colors do buyers dislike? We’ve pulled together the top 9 paint colors that buyers hate and what you should use instead.

See Dated Features Homebuyers Always Notice

Bright Bedroom Features a Patterned Accent Walls and a Gray Ceiling

Photo: Ryan Garvin. From: Erica Bryen Design.

Don’t: Bright White

It makes sense that sellers often opt for bright-white paint when trying to refresh their home, but according to Colette Archambault, co-founder of Hunter Hill Interiors, its stark, sterile appearance is better suited for a hospital. “Bright white can also create harsh contrasts and show imperfections more easily,” she adds.

Check Out Our White Paint Guide

Photo: Photo by Tamara Flanagan Photography, design by Hunter Hill Interiors

Do: Simply White by Benjamin Moore

Archambault prefers a white paint with warmth to it, one of her favorites being Benjamin Moore’s Simply White. “It has a softness that makes a space feel welcome and refined,” the designer explains. You still get the crisp, modern look—just without the harshness.

See HGTV Stars’ Favorite White Paints

Bedroom Features Neutral Accents and Modern Fixtures

Photo: Constance Mariena. From: Kerra Michele Huerta.

Don’t: Cool Gray

Not all grays are created equal. In fact, Kathryn Linea Rund, Strategic Design and Development Advisor at HouseCashin, says that “grays with blue or purple undertones feel cold and unwelcoming.” Even when paired with warm furniture and finishes, it still feels corporate and stiff.

From: Marianne Brown

Do: Mindful Gray by Sherwin-Williams

The beauty of a greige like Sherwin-Williams Mindful Gray is that it balances warm and cool tones. According to Rund, this is what makes it so versatile and “perfect for open-concept layouts and home staging.”

Photo: Janet Mesic Mackie. From: Mark Lavender.

Out: Bright Red

Psychology tells us that red is a powerful color—especially vivid shades. “Often perceived as intense and overwhelming, red can make a space feel smaller and may evoke strong emotional responses,” explains Andrea Viscuso, licensed real estate agent at Compass.

Dining Table Vignette, Wicker Vase with Florals, Art, Bold Wall Color

Photo: Arnelle Lozada. From: HGTV Handmade.

Do: Cavern Clay by Sherwin-Williams

Though not actually red, this warm terracotta color—Cavern Clay by Sherwin-Williams—has red tones that make it a worthy substitute. Rund says it “brings an earthy elegance without overpowering a room,” though she does recommend it for accent walls and smaller spaces.

See Warm Paint Shades from HGTV Magazine

Contemporary Game Room With Black Walls and Ping Pong Table

Photo: Amy Bartlam. From: Jenn Feldman Designs .

Don’t: Black

Though moody hues aren’t necessarily bad to buyers, black is a different story. “Even though it’s daring, painting a whole room black absorbs light and depth, resulting in a flat and lifeless appearance,” Barbara E. Tanaka, Strategic Home Design and Organizing Advisor at Real Estate Bees, says of the color. (Plus, imagine how many coats of primer the new homeowner would need to paint over it!)

From: Landing Design

Do: Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore

A classic navy, however, is different. One of her favorites, Tanaka recommends Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore or a similarly deep hue with a little bit of sheen “for a refined appearance that adds dimension and a hint of luxury without overpowering the room.”

See Jewel-Toned Kitchen Design Ideas

Photo: Eric Perry

Don’t: Olive Green

Nature-inspired greens are always going to be timeless—because what would be more timeless than the great outdoors? That said, olive green can too easily read as muddy, which Rund declares is “drab, especially in small spaces” and “often associated with older, out-of-date design trends.”

Photo: Valeria Jacobs

Do: Evergreen Fog by Sherwin-Williams

On the other hand, sage is right on trend. Rund describes Evergreen Fog by Sherwin-Williams as “a soft and sophisticated green with gray undertones that feels calming, clean, and modern.” It has the ability to ground any space while still adding color.

See Green Paint Colors Our Editors Love

Photo: Lauren Rubinstein. From: Kandrac & Kole Interior Designs, Inc..

Don’t: Builder Beige

Considered a default color you can find in a lot of new builds, painting a nondescript beige on the wall is supposed to be versatile and classic. Rund argues, however, that it “feels bland and dated” and “lacks warmth and personality.”

Photo: SARAH NATSUMI MOORE

Do: Pale Oak by Benjamin Moore

Considered a go-to by many designers, Viscuso says Benjamin Moore’s Pale Oak “is a subtle color with a tiny touch of greige-slash-tan that looks great in any space.” Whereas “builder beige” looks heavy on the wall, Pale Oak has an irresistible airiness to it that makes your home feel lighter and brighter.

See Neutral Paint Shades from HGTV Magazine

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Don’t: Light Blue

Though pretty, Krasovec insists that light blue can feel “too bright and childlike” in a home. It’s also more difficult to build a color palette with and limiting when it comes to style and patterns.

Photo: Robert Peterson, Rustic White

Do: Stardew by Sherwin-Williams

The soft, Sherwin-Williams Stardew blue walls in the living room help unify this space with the adjacent kitchen and keep things feeling open and spacious. A large coquina fireplace brings a historic element found throughout St. Augustine design into the living area and connects this space with the area’s history.

Brown Office With Chandelier and Navy Tufted Chair With Fringe

Photo: preston lee. From: Preston Lee.

Don’t: Dark Brown

Browns like chocolate and espresso are dated shades, not to mention especially heavy for a room to carry. “It can make spaces feel smaller and weighted, as it brings a traditional, masculine, and even oppressive feel,” says Rund.

Photo: Laurey Glenn

Do: Nutshell by Sherwin-Williams

Though just as deep and rich as a darker brown, Rund recommends this earthy brown, Nutshell by Sherwin-Williams, as it’s “softened by mauve and taupe undertones, leaving a room feeling curated, rather than cavernous.” You get all the sophistication without the visual weight.

See Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year

The guest bedroom is a study in blue and white. “This blue bedroom is a fresh take on monochromatic,” says Kalyn. “The blue is soothing, yet vibrant enough to be interesting.” Crisp white furnishings were brought in as a contrast to the Tiffany Blue shade. “I fell in love with the vintage Hollywood Regency headboard, and it became the inspiration for the design. The feel leans toward glam, but still manages to fit into this cottage home.”

Photo: Raquel Langworthy

Don’t: Turquoise

Originally taking inspiration from the ocean, the bright and bold hue is now seen as juvenile and outdated. “It’s become the cliche color of coastal-themed bathrooms and mermaid-decorated children’s rooms, limiting a buyer’s potential,” Rund describes.

Photo: Laurey Glenn

Do: Quietude by Sherwin-Williams

An option that still has coastal roots, Quietude by Sherwin-Williams is light, breezy, and reminiscent of sea glass. According to Rund, you get the same spirit without overwhelming a space.

I read this article HERE.

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New Law in effect regarding AC units – Shared Article

On January 1, 2025, a new A2L air conditioning refrigerant standard went into effect nationwide to support lower Global Warming Potential (GWP).

This means A/C systems using older refrigerants no longer meet new energy efficiency standards and are being phased out for new equipment. When current equipment supplies and refrigerants are no longer available, the purchase of compatible equipment that uses less toxic refrigerants will be necessary.

I read about this here.

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The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – wouldn’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties, Redwood City Ca.

DRE # | Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 | Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

7 Things Every Homeowner Should Do Once a Year

Before the holidays rush now is a great time to make sure your home is in ship shape for winter.

7 Things Every Homeowner Should Do Once a Year

Look how responsible you are

When you bought your house, there were a million and ten things you needed to do. (Hi, inspection, mortgage application and downstairs bathroom conversion.) But over the years, auto-pilot has set in, and those driveway pavers you always meant to replace are still staring you in the face. Stay on top of your home maintenance to-dos by making sure you tackle each of the following once a year.

Clean your gutters

 Old frisbees. Dead leaves. Dead rodents. (Ew.) Nasty stuff can accumulate in your gutters, and keeping them clear is super important for getting snow and rain off that fancy new roof you just replaced. Here’s the best part: If you get them cleaned right now, you won’t have to think about them again until 2017.

Steam clean your carpets 

Yes, you’re a hygienic person who generally doesn’t track gross stuff into her house. But over time, buildup has a way of accumulating–especially in snowy or dusty regions, or if you’ve got children or pets. Rent a steamer (or hire a professional), and relish in a pile that’s as plush and vibrant as the day you bought it.

Wash your windows… like, for real 

Again, you’re probably already Windex-ing the inside of those suckers on a weekly or monthly basis. But the outsides need love, too. Most modern windows pivot inward, so you can wash the whole thing from inside your house. But if you live in an older building and can’t get to windows on the second or third floor, hire a gent with a squeegee and a ladder.

Empty all your drawers 

OK, this one isn’t just for home owners, but anyone who lives in a house should really be in the habit of emptying and assessing every drawer one time per calendar year. Tackle it room-by-room, taking everything out, deciding if you really need it, then purging accordingly before neatly repacking.

Trim your trees

Next-door neighbor Frank hates when your sycamore cascades over his tool shed. Trim that puppy once a year for the health of your tree (a heavy bow is never a good thing) and, of course, your neighborly relations.

Schedule the exterminator 

If you think you only need to talk to Larry the Roach Guy when you’ve actually got creepy crawlers, think again. Getting your house checked and treated preemptively for bugs gives you a much better chance of not finding something disgusting (or paying thousands of dollars for termite damage) down the road.

Check out an open house in the neighborhood

 Even if you plan to live in your home until they take you out on a stretcher, it’s always a good idea to get a sense of the market. Plus, aren’t you dying to know what Kenny and Margaret did with that hideous wood-paneled rec room? You know you want to.

I read this article HERE

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DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Protect Your Home with Clean and Efficient Gutters

Gutter and Downspout Maintenance

Clean, efficient gutters and downspouts are essential to keeping water channeled away from your roof, walls, foundation and landscape. Experts generally recommend cleaning your gutters twice a year in the spring and fall. If you have a lot of trees (especially pines) near your home you may need to clean gutters more often.

Letting leaves and debris pile up can damage your roof as well as your fascia and gutters. The excess weight of debris and standing water can cause them to sag and pull away.

It is also important to check that the gutters are sloped toward the downspout and the downspouts drain away from the foundation. You may need to add an extension or a splash block for added protection to divert the runoff. If you shop around for splash blocks, you will find many choices such as sculptured/decorative stone, aluminum, concrete, and plastic.

If you are able to clean the gutters safely yourself, a ladder on firm, secure ground is best. It can be dangerous attempting maintenance from on top of the roof. If your home is on a hillside or too tall to access with a ladder, consult a professional.

To get started, clean leaves and debris from the downspout end first, and work away to the other end. Check with your local home improvement store for hose attachments made specifically for gutter cleaning. If your downspout is clogged, check the downspout strainer(s) and be sure it is clear. Check your gutter for leaks by running a hose with water. If your gutter has leaks, first be sure the seam/connection is tight and seal the joints with gutter sealant. Use the proper product for your gutter material, whether aluminum, fiberglass or other. Once cleaned and repaired, you may want to use one of the many products available to help keep them free of debris. One option is to install gutter covers. There are many types, including screens, grates and foam. Look online to research products and installation instructions.

Noisy Downspouts

There’s nothing quite like the loud pinging sound of a noisy downspout in the middle of the night. Generally this sound comes from the elbow, or bend, in the downspout. When the dripping water hits a hard surface it can amplify it to an annoying level.

There are a few do-it-yourself fixes you can try (no guarantees!).

Attach a piece of 1/4” or 3/8” poly rope inside the downspout. The rope can channel the water and eliminate the excessive sound.
Attach a scrubbing sponge (or look for gutter sponges online) to the inside of the downspout where the water hits the elbow. This should soften or eliminate the sound.
Try a decorative downspout such as a “rain chain.” Shop around for a style that complements the design of your home.

I read this article HERE

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The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Fall To-Do Checklist

The scent of fall is in the air. Time to bake an apple pie, crunch some leaves on a long walk, and carve the family pumpkin. It’s also time for some fall home maintenance. Use our fall checklist as a reminder to do important seasonal tasks like cleaning the gutters, replacing air filters, and getting the fireplace ready for the coming winter.

I read this article HERE

Got Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Effective. Efficient. Responsive. The Caton Team 🏡 How can The Caton Team help You?

Get exclusive inside access when you follow us on Facebook & Instagram

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Performing basic maintenance for the plumbing systems in your home can go a long way to preventing bigger issues from erupting. Here are eight DIY maintenance tips that can help minimize the number of trips to your house from your plumber, particularly if your home has experienced plumbing problems in the past.

Eight Essentials to Good Plumbing Maintenance

Fix leaks and clogs immediately. Plumbing issues like these can quickly turn simple repairs into expensive ones and/or lead to water damage and unhealthy mold or mildew buildup.
Use non-toxic drain cleaners. A solution of baking soda and vinegar can clear most minor drain clogs.
Keep drains object-free. Install properly fitting drain screens and sink stoppers to prevent food, hair, and other things that can stop up pipes from going down the drain.
Learn what your disposal can eat. Not everything can be chewed up by the kitchen disposal. Check your manufacturer’s manual for specifics, but as a general rule, never put cooking grease, coffee grinds, egg shells, pasta or rice in your disposal.
Buy the right tools. Be sure you have a plumber’s wrench in your toolbox as well as a sturdy plunger.
Know locations for all shut-off valves. Your home’s washing machine, sink, toilet, and water heater all have shut-off valves. Know where they are as well as your home’s main water shut-off valve and any outside clean-outs.
Prepare for the season. Before winter, inspect the insulation around the pipes under your house, in the basement, and in the garage. Proper insulation helps keep your pipes from freezing and bursting.
Schedule regular plumbing checkups. Consult with your plumber about a schedule for the routine maintenance needs for your home’s HVAC system and water heater. Also schedule a snake of your sewer lines via your home’s clean-out at least every two years to keep pipes free of clogs and buildup.

Remember: your home’s plumbing has a tell. When you spot one of its tics, like a leaky faucet, water on the floor around a dishwasher or refrigerator, or mildew around a sink, shower, or tub, don’t hesitate to act. It’s a sign that you have some maintenance to do.

I read this article HERE

Got Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

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The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Home Maintenance for Your Hardwood Floors

One of the best and biggest investments in your home – is the flooring. Take care of your hardwood today and it will last generations. If you have any updating questions – curious which updates bring more value to your home? Contact The Caton Team – we’re happy to help! -Sabrina

How To Care for Your Hardwood Floors

Hardwood is one of the oldest flooring materials and is still considered one of the best. Hardwood floors are natural, beautiful, and durable, especially if you maintain them. With good maintenance, they will last longer, look better, and add value to your home.

Make daily dusting and sweeping, with a scratch-free cloth or broom, part of your daily maintenance routine. When you need to vacuum hardwood, be sure to use the soft brush attachment, never the rotating brush roll, or as it’s known in older vacuums, the beater bar. Then, as needed, mop with the wood floor cleaning product recommended for your floor’s type and finish.

Wood floors need a protective finish. Unfinished wood floors require finishing with a protective sealer immediately after installation. Factory-finished floors are sanded, sealed, and ready to use right out of the box. If you have solid hardwood, you may need to add a finishing coat every few years, or eventually sand and refinish decades down the road. If you have engineered hardwood, which is a veneer, sanding and refinishing may be an option one-time only, depending on the thickness of the veneer.

Tips for Cleaning Your Hardwood Floors

Use only wood floor care products; never use vinyl or tile cleaning products.
If you prefer a natural cleaner, like vinegar and water, do your research. Your floors must be well sealed, and the vinegar-to-water pH balance can’t be too acidic, and you must wipe the floors dry immediately.
Most experts advise that you don’t use water to wet or steam mop wood floors.

Tips for Protecting Hardwood Floors

Use felt or rubber protectors on the bottom of furniture legs and never drag furniture on wood flooring.
Use area rugs in high-traffic areas, in front of exterior doorways, as well as in front of the kitchen sink.
Remove shoes at the door, especially high heels or cleats.
Slow down fading by keeping direct sunlight off your floors. Use window coverings to redirect, diffuse, or block UV light. UV-resistant finishes are also available.
Keep dogs’ nails trimmed, or restrict them from hardwood areas.
Wipe up spills immediately; standing liquid can damage wood floors.

Tips for Scratches and Squeaks

For deep or surface scratches, touch up using a stain stick for wood that matches your floor’s finish.
For squeaky floors, if possible, it’s best to repair from underneath which may need to be done by a professional. There are products that include a combination of lubricant and powder, which you can try using on the surface between the planks, but effectiveness may be limited.

Homeowner Tips

Did you know that hardwood floors are among the many home improvements that will pay homeowners back over the long run?
Wondering about other remodeling projects to add value to your home? Learn about the best remodeling investments you can make.
On a budget? Try these inexpensive, DIY home improvement projects to give your home a fresh look.

I read this article HERE

Got Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Effective. Efficient. Responsive. The Caton Team 🏡 How can The Caton Team help You?

Get exclusive inside access when you follow us on Facebook & Instagram

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Is Artificial Grass Right for You?

Artificial grass has come a long way since AstroTurf first hit the playing fields (and maybe your grandmother’s patio). With the ongoing drought in the West, the new, improved artificial grass is becoming more and more popular for sunny, low-rainfall areas, as well as with pet owners, and people who are just tired of lawn maintenance. Today’s synthetic grass is colored and textured to look like various grass types, so you can likely get a look very similar to what you could grow naturally. It is not without its drawbacks, however. Artificial grass is not cheap. Installed costs can run from $10 to $20 per square foot. Compared to natural grass, it can take up to seven to eight years to recoup the initial cost of artificial turf. It isn’t easy to install either, so it might not be the best DIY project.

Best Uses for Artificial Grass

Artificial turf is a good solution if you have an area where grass simply won’t grow because conditions are shady or wet. Artificial grass is a popular option with dog owners for pet runs, or if you have multiple dogs that are wearing out your natural lawn. Artificial greenery is also a great option for places like a small patio or outside space. It also works great for defined shapes within a yard where real grass edges can be tough to mow and keep weed-free.

Pros:

No need to water your lawn
No weeding or mowing
No need for fertilizers or pesticides
Looks very similar to natural grass: soft, even, and green
Does not get muddy or rutted (and keeps your house cleaner)

Cons:

Expensive
Needs to be cleaned off with water and sanitizing agents (more frequently if you have dogs)
Not easily recycled
Heats up in direct sun
Banned by some homeowners associations and municipalities

The Bottom Line

If you love the look of green grass and plan to be in your house for a while then it’s worth considering an artificial lawn. For pet owners, it can be a great solution, but remember it can’t absorb and break down pet urine, so it will require washing (which does take water). Although it’s not maintenance-free, it certainly requires less maintenance than real grass. Remember to check with your city or HOA about their rules for artificial grass.

I read this article HERE

Got Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Effective. Efficient. Responsive. The Caton Team 🏡 How can The Caton Team help You?

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Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

How to Create a Home Maintenance Log

With a homeowner’s maintenance log you can keep track of maintenance and repair details about your home as well as improvements, updates, and upgrades you make over the years. You can store appliance and system manuals and instructions, warranties, and other resources, like where to shut off utilities.

To create your own home maintenance log, first collect and organize important materials in a binder or expandable folder. Add pockets or sleeves to organize receipts, manuals, floorplans, warranties, and so on. If you prefer a paperless version, you’ll need to take time to scan all these documents. Microsoft Excel has a great Home Maintenance Schedule template that is easy to customize and update.

What to include:

Manuals and warranties – File home system and appliance instructions, maintenance records, and home warranty information. If you have a home warranty, keep a copy of the contract in the binder.
Maintenance receipts and contact information
- Keep receipts and contact information from service providers such as: carpet cleaners, HVAC, garage door opener repair, chimney sweep, gutter repair, roof inspection/repair, solar panel cleaning, and more.
- If you have a home warranty plan for your systems and appliances, include service call information, repairs, and all contact information.
- List previously used service providers that you would recommend, such as painters, yard service, and pest control.

Homeowner maintenance records – It can be easy to lose track of when you last performed maintenance so be sure to keep records of gutter cleaning/repair, painting, repairing decks and walkways, HVAC filter replacements, sprinkler systems, and window cleaning, including slides and screens.

Home improvements

Keep track of interior improvements including overhead lighting, fans, smart thermostats, storage systems, and dimmer switches, as well as low flow toilets and showerheads. Be sure to include information about refinishing/replacing of floors or cabinets.
Record exterior improvements such as landscaping and sprinkler systems, exterior lighting, solar panels, window upgrades, pool resurfacing, fencing, decks, tree removal, and so on.
Include specifics – When you paint, record the brand and color formula in your maintenance log. If your replace the roof, keep track of the type of material, color, manufacturer, and warranty info.

Maps and resources – Record the location of shutoffs for the main water, gas, and electrical, as well as the electrical panel. If your home is on a well and/or septic system, map the well, septic tanks, and leach field/lines. Include location of solar panel control/displays and sprinkler junction box.
Neighborhood information – Include information on HOA guidelines and fees and how to contact your Homeowners’ Association, if applicable.

A Great Selling Tool

When it comes time to sell your home, your home maintenance log is also a valuable reference that demonstrates how well you’ve cared for your home. Providing this kind of comprehensive record can really inspire confidence for the buyer who wants to purchase your home.

I read this article HERE

Got Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Effective. Efficient. Responsive. The Caton Team 🏡 How can The Caton Team help You?

Get exclusive inside access when you follow us on Facebook & Instagram

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

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11 MUST-DO MONTHLY MAINTENANCE TASKS

The smart way to maintain a home in tip-top shape is with a monthly check-up: a brief list of simple tasks you can deal with in less than an hour. By doing this regularly, you’ll catch problems at their earliest stages before they can become expensive emergencies. Keeping the mechanics of your home in good working order also extends their lives, giving you the benefit of additional years of service before you need to make repairs or replacements.

Check the furnace filter. The filter is a vital component of furnaces and heat pumps. The only heating systems without filters are those with boilers, which use water to heat the home. Pull out the filter and clear any dust or other debris clogging the screen, or replace it if necessary. You’ll enjoy better air quality and lower energy costs.

Check range hood filter. The exhaust vent in your range hood has a filter to catch grease. To keep it working properly, clean it regularly. Remove it and scrub in the sink with hot water and grease-cutting dishwashing liquid. Let it dry and put it back in place.

Clear drains. Check that water is draining freely in all sink, shower, and tub drains. If it backs up, unclog it with boiling water, or baking soda and vinegar, or a drain snake. Be sure not to mix drain cleaner and home remedies, as some chemicals may have adverse reactions.

Clean garbage disposal. To prevent odors and other problems, pour a half cup of baking soda into the disposal, then slowly add a half cup of vinegar. Or drop in ice cubes, grind them, and follow with a half cup of baking soda and boiling water.

Check for leaks around sinks and toilets. Look further into any sign of water, even a few drops. A leak only gets worse over time, so the sooner you catch it, the smaller the plumbing bill will be.

Test smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Smoke alarms and CO detectors should have a test button. If you don’t see one, check online with the manufacturer to learn how to test your detector. You may even be able to test smart detectors from your phone.

Check fire extinguishers. Make sure they’re easily accessible and aren’t damaged. If they’re old, dented, or show low pressure, it’s time to replace them.

Examine all electrical cords. Check for damage to the wire’s insulation, especially near the plug, a common area for wear. Repair any problem areas with electrical tape and make a plan to replace the cord as soon as possible.

Check the house exterior. Walk around your home, checking the roof, siding, windows, doors, and foundation for any damage. Take note of any standing water close by, as that can be an indication of leaks or other problems.

Check your air conditioner. Look for leaks around the copper lines that connect to the indoor evaporator coil. If you find any, it’s time to call an HVAC professional.

Clear the outdoor dryer vent. Make sure the opening is free of lint and debris build-up. In addition to these monthly checks, it’s worth it to keep up with seasonal and annual maintenance tasks. Click here for a list.

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Interior Paint Colors Buyers Hate

Don’t: Bright White

Do: Simply White by Benjamin Moore

Don’t: Cool Gray

Do: Mindful Gray by Sherwin-Williams

Out: Bright Red

Do: Cavern Clay by Sherwin-Williams

Don’t: Black

Do: Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore

Don’t: Olive Green

Do: Evergreen Fog by Sherwin-Williams

Don’t: Builder Beige

Do: Pale Oak by Benjamin Moore

Don’t: Light Blue

Do: Stardew by Sherwin-Williams

Don’t: Dark Brown

Do: Nutshell by Sherwin-Williams

Don’t: Turquoise

Do: Quietude by Sherwin-Williams

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties, Redwood City Ca.

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Best Uses for Artificial Grass

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