Love is in the air this month. Whether you feel it because that’s just the kind of person you are, or because Hallmark tells you to, the bottom line is that this is the time of year when we are encouraged to do a little extra for our loved ones to show how much we care.

This year we say don’t give in to the usual unoriginal chocolates and flowers. Give something with lasting enjoyment, and heck, perhaps even something you get to enjoy. If you can’t take a Caribbean getaway, we’d like to offer you a few tips on getting your house looking and performing better in time for spring. If any of these items are already on your ‘honey do’ list, it might just be time to buckle down and get ‘em done.

1) The exterior. It is an obvious point, but for the purpose of this writing it is worth reminding you that the exterior of your home is your impression to the world. Or at least to your neighbors and visitors anyway… Springing for new siding if your home is starting to look its age is a great way to get it looking good and maximizing its energy-efficiency. Otherwise, get out the paint for interior and exterior touch ups, and don’t neglect your stucco if the cracks need to be sealed.

2) Moisture proof. We want rain, but we don’t want the moisture to seep into the home, so take a little time to do some preventative maintenance. If you don’t have rain gutters, install them, then make sure to clear them out of leaves and debris at least two times a year to ensure water isn’t getting backed up and seeping in.

3) Weather stripping. Inspect the areas around your windows and doors. If they’re cracking, rotted or corroded it might be time to replace them. You won’t believe the energy savings.

4) A new front door. Give your house some character, sophistication and added security with a new fiberglass front entry door. Styles range from traditional to modern and everything in between.

So call it spring cleaning or a ‘honey do’ list, taking care of a few of these housekeeping tasks around the house is sure to earn you a few extra points. Who knew home improvement could be, dare we say, romantic?