By Melissa Forte-Litscher, NextHome
OP ED: The news has been reporting on the National Association of Realtors’ proposed settlement, and I want to address it quickly before diving into this month’s tips on getting your yard ready for summer fun! This is a proposed settlement that is expected to be approved by the courts early this summer. As I understand it, there will be some changes that we will have to adapt to, some forms and documents updated, and a few procedures will be modified. Most of our local agents work hard, honestly, and with the utmost professionalism and integrity for their customers on both sides of a real estate transaction. The biggest changes will be with buyer customers needing to sign an agreement with their agent prior to viewing a property that has been listed in the Multiple Listing Service, and the buyer’s agent compensation will not be advertised in the MLS. There are many nuances still to be worked out and a great source of information is the emeraldcoastrealtors.com/nar-settlement.com website. There you will find up-to-date information directly from the source. As always, feel free to contact me or your favorite trusted realtor to discuss these issues and how it may factor into your next real estate transaction.
As the sun begins to shine brighter and the temperatures climb higher, it’s time to shift our attention to outdoor living and prepare our yards for the joys of summertime. To ensure your outdoor sanctuary is ready for the season ahead, here’s a guide to help you through the process of getting your yard summer ready.
Start your summer yard preparations by conducting a thorough inspection of your outdoor space. Begin with your fencing, which serves as both a boundary and a backdrop for your yard. Check for signs of wear and tear, such as rot, loose boards or rusty hardware. For wooden fences, probe the posts for soft spots or decay. Promptly address any damage to maintain privacy and security.
Next, turn your attention to your decking or patio area. Look for loose or damaged boards, protruding nails or indications of water damage. Repairing these issues promptly ensures a safe and enjoyable outdoor environment for summer gatherings.
Don’t forget about your irrigation system. Inspect it for leaks, clogged sprinkler heads or damaged pipes. Proper functioning of your irrigation system is essential for keeping your lawn and plants adequately hydrated throughout the summer months.
A lush, green lawn is the cornerstone of a beautiful outdoor space. Start by mowing your lawn to the appropriate height, ensuring you don’t cut it too short, which can stress the grass. Different grass varieties have different ideal mowing heights, so research the specific requirements for your lawn.
Consider aerating your lawn to alleviate soil compaction and promote healthy root growth. Aerating involves perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeply. This enhances the overall health of your lawn and encourages thicker turf.
After aerating, it’s time to fertilize. Choose a high-quality fertilizer formulated for your grass type and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Proper fertilization provides essential nutrients for your lawn to thrive during the summer heat and drought.
Summer offers the perfect opportunity to infuse your yard with vibrant colors and lush foliage. Choose a mix of annuals and perennials to ensure continuous blooms throughout the season. Popular summer annuals include petunias, marigolds, and zinnias, while perennials like coneflowers, daylilies, and black-eyed Susans provide long-lasting color.
To enrich the soil and provide a healthy foundation for your plants, loosen it with a garden fork or tiller and incorporate compost or aged manure. After planting, water your new additions regularly, especially during hot, dry spells. Consider using a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to the roots, minimizing waste and promoting efficient growth.
In addition to planting, summer is an ideal time to prune any overgrown shrubs or trees. Remove dead or diseased branches and shape the plants to maintain a neat appearance. Proper pruning encourages healthy growth and improves air circulation, reducing the risk of pest and disease issues.
By following these comprehensive steps, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your yard into a summer paradise. From repairing fences to fertilizing lawns and planting flowers, investing time in preparing your outdoor space ensures countless hours of enjoyment in the warm summer sun.
850.496.7444
Melissa@NextHomeCornerstone.com
destin-fwbrealty.com
