Montana summers are what we dream about all year! Long days, warm evenings, and the kind of sunshine that makes you want to be outside from morning till night. While you're out enjoying everything our beautiful state has to offer, it’s also a great time to give your home a little seasonal TLC.

Whether you've recently purchased your home, plan to stay put for the long haul, or are just starting to think about your next move, taking care of a few summer maintenance tasks can make a big difference, both in protecting your investment and in making your home more enjoyable day to day.

Here are some of the top things I recommend checking off your summer to-do list:

1. Give Your Exterior a Once-Over

Montana winters can be rough on our homes. Take a walk around your property and check your siding, paint, and foundation for any damage. If you notice peeling paint or exposed wood, summer is the time to fix it—before the weather turns again.

2. Service Your Air Conditioning (Even If You Rarely Use It)

I know a lot of us only use our A/C on the hottest days, but those hot days are really hot, and when they hit, you’ll be glad everything is running smoothly. Swap out filters, clear debris around your unit, and have a professional take a look if it hasn’t been serviced in a while.

3. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

This is one of those tasks that’s easy to put off—until it causes a real issue. Check that your gutters are free of debris and that water is being directed away from your foundation. It’s a simple step that can prevent big headaches down the road.

4. Prepare for Fire Season

If you live in an area with trees, brush, or tall grass, take the time to clear the space around your home. Trim branches, rake up dry leaves, and create a defensible zone. It’s a tough topic, but being proactive gives you a little more peace of mind.

5. Check Your Windows and Screens

Let that fresh Montana air in—but keep the bugs out. Take a few minutes to inspect your screens for tears or holes, and check that windows seal properly. Replacing weather stripping is inexpensive and can make your home more energy efficient year-round.

6. Test Your Sprinkler System

If you have a lawn or garden, now’s the time to make sure your sprinklers are working properly. Broken heads and leaks are easy to miss until they’ve wasted a lot of water—or created brown patches in the yard. A quick test can save you time, water, and frustration.

7. Stay on Top of the Small Stuff

Loose railings, cracked caulking, wobbly deck boards—those little things add up. Summer’s a good time to walk through your home with a fresh eye and knock out a few of those quick fixes before they turn into bigger problems.

One Last Thought
Whether you're a homeowner for now or for life, maintaining your property is one of the best ways to protect your investment. And if you ever need a referral for a local handyman, contractor, landscaper, or painter, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’ve got a list of trusted folks I’m always happy to share.

I hope you’re soaking up every bit of summer this year. And if you—or someone you know—starts dreaming about a new home, you know where to find me. I’m always here to help.