According to property practitioners from the Seeff Property Group, regular cleaning and maintenance can ensure that your property not only retains its value but grows in value.

Key areas of focus

Start with the areas most used, such as the kitchen. Ensure the kitchen cupboards are thoroughly scrubbed at least every quarter. The stove and cooking areas should be cleaned weakly to avoid grime building up. Ensure the extractor is also cleaned and the filter replaced every 6-12 months, depending on the make.

Tiles in the kitchen and bathrooms must be cleaned monthly, and the grouting must be touched up when needed, especially if it is a white or light colour. Sanitaryware should be kept clean, and the taps should be cleaned and shined to prevent tarnishing.

Bedroom wardrobes and any other cabinetry, such as in a study, should be scrubbed every six months to remove any stains and dirt. Consider putting fresheners in wardrobes, especially those used for storage and linen.

Carpets should be steam cleaned at least annually and all stains removed. Carpets should be replaced every 5-15 years, depending on the quality of the carpets. Wooden floors should be cleaned and maintained as prescribed by the installers to retain their value.

Tiled floors should be steam cleaned at least annually with special attention to the grouting, which should be touched up from time to time to ensure it retains its appearance and does not distract from the floor.

Broken tiles, taps, hinges or handles should be replaced as soon as needed. Air-conditioners should be serviced annually (or more often, depending on the make). If you have a fireplace or built-in braai, it should be thoroughly cleaned at least monthly and painted or refurbished as needed.

If you spot any mould, it should be cleaned, and the areas treated as soon as possible – the same for any cracks. If you find any structural cracks or issues, call in an expert immediately and get them repaired to avoid further or secondary damage.

Always invest in the best quality paint that you can afford and ensure it is washable. The interiors of your home should be painted every 3-5 years, depending on the quality of the paint. The exterior should be painted every 5-10 years.

Boundary walls should also be maintained, cracks should be repaired, and the walls painted every few years. Check that gates are in good working order, especially gate and garage door motors.

Broken roof tiles should be replaced. If there are leaks or cracks, these should be repaired immediately. If you have wooden windows and exterior doors, these should be regularly sanded, treated and sealed. Older homes or those in wooded areas may also need to be fumigated annually.

The swimming pool should be cleaned and maintained weekly. The sand should be replaced every three years. Most pools need resurfacing every 8-10 years to keep them well-maintained. Also, ensure the coping around the pool is well maintained and any cracks repaired.

By implementing the above guidelines, your property will be maintained in an excellent and valuable condition.

Writer: Gina Meintjes