SPRING CLEANING & SUMMER PREP FOR YOUR VACATION HOME

Written By Jonathan Luster

As the snow melts and the days grow longer, spring in Truckee marks the start of something exciting—summer season in the Sierra! For second homeowners, this is the perfect time to shake off the winter frost and get your vacation property in shape for warm-weather living.

Whether you use your Truckee home for personal getaways, short-term rentals, or a mix of both, spring cleaning and seasonal maintenance are essential. Proper preparation ensures your home is safe, welcoming, and guest-ready for the busy summer months ahead.

Here’s your go-to guide for spring cleaning and summer prep, created with Truckee homeowners in mind.

1. Start with a Whole-Home Deep Clean

Winter can leave behind more than just snow piles—think dust, debris, and stale indoor air. Start your prep with a comprehensive deep clean to refresh your space.

Deep Clean Focus Areas

  • Dust all surfaces, including baseboards, ceiling fans, and vents.

  • Wash windows and screens to let in that bright summer light.

  • Clean behind furniture and appliances where winter dust and moisture can collect.

  • Shampoo carpets and rugs, especially in entryways used during snowy months.

  • Deep clean kitchens and bathrooms, paying close attention to tile grout, drains, and appliances.

Pro tip: If you’re not in town or don’t want to do it yourself, Second Home Care can coordinate professional cleaning services to get your home sparkling in no time.

2. Test and Service All Major Systems

After months of hibernation, it’s critical to make sure your home’s major systems are fully functional and efficient.

Must-Do Maintenance

  • HVAC System: Change filters and test air conditioning before the first heat wave. Schedule a tune-up if needed.

  • Water Heater: Check for leaks, rust, or sediment buildup.

  • Smoke and CO Detectors: Replace batteries and test all alarms.

  • Thermostats and Smart Home Devices: Update settings for warmer temperatures and ensure connectivity.

  • Plumbing: Run all faucets and check under sinks for leaks that may have developed over winter.

This is also a great time to inspect your spa or hot tub if you have one. Make sure water levels, chemical balances, and filters are in check—or let Second Home Care handle spa maintenance for you.

3. Inspect for Winter Damage

Truckee winters are beautiful—but harsh. Melting snow and ice can leave behind damage that isn’t visible until spring.

Areas to Inspect for Winter Damage

  • Roof and Gutters: Look for missing shingles, clogged gutters, or signs of water damage.

  • Foundation and Crawl Spaces: Check for cracks, water intrusion, or signs of pests.

  • Driveways and Decking: Inspect for frost heaves, cracked wood, or warped boards.

  • Exterior Paint and Siding: Look for peeling, bubbling, or moisture damage.

Spotting problems early means avoiding costly repairs later—and ensures your home stays safe and structurally sound throughout the summer.

4. Prepare the Outdoor Living Spaces

One of the best parts of summer in Truckee is outdoor living—barbecues on the deck, stargazing from the hot tub, and lazy afternoons in the mountain breeze.

Get Your Outdoor Areas Ready By…

  • Cleaning patios, decks, and railings with a power washer.

  • Inspecting and cleaning outdoor furniture (replace broken items or restain wood surfaces).

  • Servicing grills and outdoor cooking appliances (check for leaks or rust).

  • Refreshing planters and garden beds with new soil and summer-friendly plants.

  • Installing string lights or lanterns for a cozy nighttime ambiance.

Don’t forget to trim trees and shrubs—not only does this improve curb appeal, it’s part of defensible space maintenance to reduce wildfire risk.

5. Restock and Reorganize

Whether your home is for family use or short-term rental guests, now is the time to take stock of your supplies.

Replenish Your Supplies

  • Paper goods (toilet paper, paper towels)

  • Basic pantry staples (coffee, salt, olive oil)

  • Fresh linens and towels

  • Guest toiletries

  • Cleaning products

Reorganize Your Space

  • Declutter closets, pantries, and kitchen cabinets.

  • Swap out winter gear for summer essentials (flip-flops, fans, bug spray).

  • Check expiration dates on food and first-aid items.

Well-stocked and organized homes not only feel better—they photograph better for Airbnb and VRBO listings, too.

6. Plan for Summer Guests or Rentals

If your home will host renters during the summer, spring is the time to get ahead of the busy season.

Spring Checklist for Short-Term Rentals

  • Review and refresh your listings on Airbnb or VRBO.

  • Update photos to reflect sunny, summer vibes.

  • Create a welcome binder or digital guide with local tips, emergency numbers, and house rules.

  • Schedule turnover services with a reliable provider like Second Home Care.

  • Double-check licenses or permit renewals if required by the city of Truckee.

High ratings and positive guest experiences depend on attention to detail—and a well-prepped home is the first step.

7. Schedule Preventative Services

Avoid last-minute maintenance emergencies by scheduling key services now. 

Second Home Care Can Coordinate

  • Window and screen cleaning

  • Gutter clearing and roof inspection

  • Spa cleaning and filter replacement

  • HVAC servicing

  • Deck and fence repair

  • Landscaping and defensible space clearance

These proactive steps ensure your home is ready for anything summer throws at it, from heatwaves to holiday bookings.

8. Stay Ahead with Home Watch Services

Even if you won’t be in Truckee full-time this summer, you can still keep your home safe and guest-ready with regular home watch inspections.

Second Home Care Provides

  • Scheduled property checks with detailed reports and photos

  • Storm damage monitoring and emergency response

  • Coordination with repair services and contractors

  • Key management and guest entry support

It’s the easiest way to protect your investment—without having to be on-site.

Enjoy Summer, Stress-Free

Spring cleaning and summer prep don’t have to be overwhelming. With the right checklist—and the right local support—you can enjoy the Truckee summer season knowing your vacation home is safe, clean, and ready to welcome family, friends, or guests.

At Second Home Care, we’ve spent over 25 years helping homeowners in Truckee, Kings Beach, Tahoe Donner, and surrounding neighborhoods. From deep cleaning and spa maintenance to full property management support, we handle the details so you don’t have to.

Ready to Get Your Vacation Home Summer-Ready?

Let us handle the prep so you can focus on enjoying your mountain escape.

Contact Second Home Care Today to schedule spring services or learn more about our home watch and property care solutions.

Jonathan Luster
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THE BENEFITS OF REGULAR HOME WATCH SERVICES FOR TRUCKEE VACATION HOMES