Ignite FB Tracking PixelRoutine maintenance tasks for your home - Evelyn Forston
Keller Williams Realty River Cities
Evelyn Forston, Keller Williams Realty River CitiesPhone: (205) 901-6756
Email: [email protected]

Routine maintenance tasks for your home

by Evelyn Forston 09/25/2023

From your plumbing and HVAC system to home safety devices, there are several items in your home that can break down or malfunction. Doing some maintenance tasks each month can help reduce the risk of needing repairs or having to replace equipment. Plan on performing the following maintenance tasks in your home monthly:

Replace HVAC filters

Your HVAC filters end up coated in dust and debris, which can affect your HVAC system's efficiency and your air quality. Check your HVAC filters every month to see if it's time to replace them. If your filters are dirty or clogged, replacing them with new ones helps improve your air quality and causes less wear and tear on your HVAC system. Keep in mind you might only need to replace your filters every few months, but at least check them each month.

Check for leaks

Leaks can lead to serious and costly water damage. Even smaller leaks can cause problems, such as running up your water bill. Although some leaks are easy to see, others can happen in hidden areas, such as inside walls. Check for signs of leaks in your home every month, such as water spots on ceilings and walls and puddles of water near plumbing fixtures and appliances. Have leaks fixed immediately to prevent water damage from occurring.

Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors

Your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are there to keep you safe, so make sure they're in good working condition. Test these home safety devices each month to ensure they work properly. If they're not working right, you might need to dust them off or replace the batteries.

Seal bathroom gaps

Cracks or openings around your tub or shower can lead to leaks inside your walls or floors. Search for gaps around bathroom fixtures every month, and seal them up with caulking to prevent leaks. Touch up the grout between bathroom floor tiles or shower tiles each month as needed, which helps reduce the risk of mildew and mold growth.

Check your home exterior

Walk around the exterior of your home once a month to search for issues that need to be addressed, such as cracks or gaps in the foundation. Also check for areas of standing water that could indicate a drainage problem on your property.

About the Author
Author

Evelyn Forston

Hi! We are David and Evelyn - The Hickox Team!

With a shared passion for helping people find where you truly belong—whether it’s a dream home or a strategic commercial space—we’ve combined our experience, heart, and hustle to better serve you, as our client across the Chattahoochee Valley. 

David brings sharp negotiation skills and market insight, and I bring creative strategy, relationship-driven service, and a love for both Residential and Commercial real estate. Together, we bring a perfect blend of strategy, service, and savvy, to elevate every step of your Real Estate journey.

We believe that real estate is not just about property—it’s about people, purpose, and possibility.

If you’re buying, selling, investing, or just want advice—we’re here for you.

-TheHickoxTeam 

Every Home Begins with 'H"

Keller Williams Realty River Cities

Meet David

"When I think of dedication and drive in Real Estate, I think of David Hickox. Not only is David my professional partner, he’s also my fiancé — which means I get a front-row seat to the determination and care he puts into every property detail and client interaction."

-Evelyn Forston

I’m David Hickox—a dedicated real estate advisor serving the Chattahoochee Valley with a focus on results, relationships, and real value. My approach is grounded in strategy, honesty, and a deep respect for the goals and dreams of every client I work with.

I bring sharp market insight, strong negotiation skills, and a calm, solutions-focused mindset to every transaction. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or expanding your portfolio, I’m here to make the process smooth, strategic, and successful.

As co-lead of The Hickox Team with my fiancé Evelyn—an incredible Realtor and partner in every sense—we combine our strengths to deliver a real estate experience that’s both heart-led and results-driven. Together, we bring creativity, clarity, and commitment to the table every step of the way.

Outside of real estate, I enjoy staying active, watching the Braves and SEC football, working out, spending time with family and my sweet fiancé, Evelyn. 

Let’s connect—I’d be honored to help you take the next step with confidence.

Call me at 912-596-4261

Meet Evelyn

Hi, I’m Evelyn Forston —a people-oriented, house-obsessed, dog-loving soul!💛🏡🐾

I'm a Realtor, Advisor and Associate Broker serving both Residential and Commercial Real Estate clients across Georgia and Alabama. I believe Real Estate is more than closings and contracts—it’s about connection, service, and walking with people through some of life’s biggest milestones.

I don't just sell properties—I shepherd people through meaningful life transitions with my professional partner, who is also my fiancé- David Hickox.

Whether I’m helping a family buy their first home, assisting an investor with a new commercial venture, or supporting someone in a major life transition, I treat every client with care, strategy, and heart. My experience spans residential and commercial sales, multi-family, single-family, and property management—which means I can offer smart advice, creative solutions, and real results.

I grew up in the Chattahoochee Valley and proudly graduated from both Brookstone School and Columbus State University. I love this community deeply and it shows in how I live and serve. I’m a 2022 East Alabama Leadership graduate, a 2025 “star” for the Alzheimer’s Association Dancing Stars of Columbus, a member of the East Alabama Board of Realtors, and I serve as the 2025 Entertainment Committee Chair for the Columbus Board of Realtors.

I live, work, and thrive in the Columbus, GA / Phenix City, AL area with my fiancé and real estate partner, David Hickox and my two pups, Cupcake and Aubs. We love helping people turn dreams into keys and investments into income.

Call me at 205-901-6756

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