Homeowner Services
Property Care Services
You can never predict what you may find when you return home. In Northern Michigan, the seasons that we love so much also bring challenges to your home. From safety to snowbanks, groceries to gardening, rain, shine, and everything in between, NorthWatch has you covered. So come up north...and enjoy every minute.
Routine Inspections
Interior
Inspect for signs of damage due to weather, pests, insects, vandalism or other disturbance
Confirm that the security system is set and working properly
Check security of all windows and entryways are secure
Visual inspection of all HVAC systems
Note any suspicious odors
Visual inspection of walls, ceilings, windows, tubs, and showers for evidence of water damage, leakage, mold or mildew
Check that the thermostat is set at requested temperature and humidity
Visual check of water heater
Replace batteries in smoke detectors, change light bulbs, and reset clocks if needed
Check fuse box for tripped breakers or evidence of power surge
Requested reporting on any home maintenance, repairs or construction
Exterior
Ensure all entrances are secure
Visual check for evidence of forced entry, vandalism, or damage due to weather, pests and insects
Removal of newspapers, flyers and other evidence of non occupancy
Requested retrieval and forwarding of packages and mail
Visual inspection of roof and gutters from the ground as well as inspection of outbuildings, yard, landscaping, and lakeshore
Light shoveling to keep entrance to home clear
Post-Storm Inspection
Inspection of the exterior of the home and property
Check for flooding, leaks, or water damage
Temperature check to ensure the furnace is working properly
The frequency of routine inspections is decided by the homeowner and can be weekly, biweekly, monthly, or on an as needed basis. Inspections include an email or text report per visit with photos if necessary and referral services as needed.
Vacation Rental Management
Provided for homeowners with weekly, monthly, and/or seasonal rentals
List your Home With Us!
Build and manage listings on Airbnb and the NorthWatch website
Focus advertising with guests of the Traverse City Horse Shows
Screen potential guests and manage reservations
Create necessary rental agreements/contracts between homeowner and guest
Provide a guide book for the property containing a welcome letter, house rules, and local information
Ensure the home is ready for guests and provide entry at specified arrival time, welcoming them with any necessary instructions for the home as well as highlights of the area
Act as the local contact for both the homeowner and guest during visits
Arrange for and supervise housekeeping
Survey the home after guest departure to check for damages and report to the homeowner on the condition of the property
Oversee any problems that may arise by scheduling for repairs if needed or answering to guest concerns and requests
Additional services available upon request
Concierge Services
NorthWatch acts as a personal assistant, performing any task a guest or client may not have the time for, or the local connections and resources to easily accomplish. From meeting service providers and receiving deliveries for our Homewatch clients, to organizing personal chef and daily housekeeping services for our guests, NorthWatch can deliver!
Local Contact Liaison Service
• Pick-up/receive deliveries
• Open/close home for vendors, service providers, police, etc as needed
• Record and report progress of projects, repairs, etc
Seasonal Opening
• Coordinate services for: lawn care, housekeeping, dock and hoist installation, etc.
• Plug in all electrical items
• Turn on any electric breakers and water mains as needed
• Turn on water heater and ice maker
• Light cleaning of interior of home
• Linens placed in bedrooms/bathrooms
• Cycle dishwasher, clothes washer, garbage disposal
• Reset clocks
• Replace light bulbs
• Check smoke detectors and replace batteries if needed
• Purchase groceries and stock refrigerator/pantry
• Outdoor furniture/decoration placed
• Light yard/beach clean up
• Set air conditioner/furnace to requested temperature and replace filters as needed
• Adjust blinds/curtains
• Add salt to water softener
Seasonal Closing
• Coordinate services for dock removal, winterization, lawn/landscaping clean-up,
snow removal, cleaning service, other services if applicable and as requested
• Light cleaning of interior of home
• Adjust blinds/curtains
• Unplug all electrical items
• Adjust temperature
• Collect and remove any garbage and/or recycling
• Confirm that dishwasher, washer and dryer, and refrigerator are clean and empty
• Security check including doors, windows, security system, etc
• Store outdoor furniture/decor
Get In Touch
Reach out to us- and let us help you with your vacation home needs.