As we move into March here in Southwest Iowa, the weather starts to shift—and so do your home’s needs. After a long Midwest winter, small seasonal maintenance can help prevent costly surprises and protect your home’s long-term value.

At NextHome In The Bluffs, we believe in Humans Over Houses, which means helping you take care of the place where your life happens.

Here’s your local March homeowner checklist to help you stay ahead this spring.

✔️ 1. Inspect Your Home’s Exterior

Winter can be tough on roofs, siding, and foundations. Now is the perfect time to walk around your home and check for:

• Missing or damaged shingles
• Loose siding or trim
• Cracks in walkways and driveways
• Water pooling near your foundation
• Clogged or damaged gutters

Catching these early can save thousands later.

✔️ 2. Change Your Air Filters

One of the simplest and most overlooked maintenance tasks is replacing your air filters.

This helps:
• Improve indoor air quality
• Reduce allergens
• Lower energy bills
• Extend the life of your HVAC system

Most homes should change filters every 60–90 days.

✔️ 3. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

This quick 5-minute task protects what matters most.

Make sure:
• Every level of your home has detectors
• Batteries are fresh
• Units are less than 10 years old

Daylight Saving Time is a great reminder to do this twice each year.

✔️ 4. Check Your Sump Pump

Spring rain and melting snow can create unexpected flooding. Testing your sump pump now helps avoid emergency situations.

Try this:
• Pour a bucket of water into the pit
• Make sure the pump activates
• Check the discharge line
• Confirm backup battery function

✔️ 5. Seal Drafts & Air Leaks

Energy bills can add up fast if your home isn’t sealed properly.

Look for:
• Gaps around windows and doors
• Cracked caulking
• Missing weather stripping
• Attic insulation issues

Small improvements now make your home more comfortable all year.

✔️ 6. Start Planning Your Lawn & Landscaping

Spring curb appeal starts before the grass turns green.

Now is the time to:
• Rake debris
• Trim shrubs and trees
• Plan flower beds
• Schedule fertilization
• Inspect irrigation systems

Strong curb appeal protects your home’s value—even if you’re not planning to move.

✔️ 7. Declutter & Refresh High-Traffic Areas

This is a great time to reset your space.

Focus on:
• Entryways
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Closets and storage

Small organization steps make your home feel fresh and reduce stress.

🧡 Your Local Resource for Homeownership

Owning a home is about more than maintenance—it’s about building a life in a community you love.

If you ever need trusted local vendors, contractors, or just honest advice, we’re always here. We’ve built strong relationships throughout Council Bluffs and Omaha and love connecting homeowners with the right resources.

And if you’ve been wondering what your home might be worth this spring, we’re happy to provide a personalized, no-pressure home value.

Reach out anytime. We’d love to help.

NextHome In The Bluffs
Humans Over Houses 🧡