Behind the Scenes: How Our Team Cares for Second Homes

Owning a second home along the Carolina coast offers the perfect blend of luxury and escape—but managing that home from afar presents unique challenges. At Tongue & Groove Property Services, our team exists for one purpose: to give homeowners complete peace of mind, with white-glove care that anticipates needs before they arise.

From pre-arrival preparations to hurricane readiness, here’s a look behind the scenes at how we care for your home when you're away, and ensure it’s picture-perfect when you return.

A Personalized Approach to Estate Management

No two homes—or homeowners—are alike. That’s why our services begin with a detailed property consultation and the development of a customized care plan. Our team maps out routine and seasonal tasks based on your home’s features, location, and usage patterns, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Whether it’s a sprawling waterfront estate or a tucked-away coastal retreat, we care for every residence as if it were our own.

Weekly & Biweekly Property Inspections

Regular check-ins are the cornerstone of second-home care. During your absence, we conduct detailed weekly or biweekly inspections to:

• Monitor HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and security systems

• Check for signs of moisture intrusion, pests, or mildew

• Verify all doors and windows are secure

• Confirm landscaping and exterior upkeep are on track

• Provide photo or video reports to keep you informed

These visits are designed to catch small issues before they become costly problems, giving you confidence from miles away.

Pre-Arrival Preparation & Post-Departure Closeout

We believe luxury living starts the moment you arrive—not after chores are done. When you notify us of your upcoming stay, our team goes into motion. Common services include:

• Cleaning and restocking of household essentials

• Adjusting thermostat and lighting preferences

• Setting up outdoor living spaces or pool areas

• Refrigerating groceries or stocking your wine cellar

• Turning down beds and preparing guest rooms

After your departure, we’ll close down the home with equal care—securing the property, resetting systems, and ensuring everything is prepped for your next return.

Storm & Hurricane Readiness

Coastal living means staying weather-aware. When storm season approaches, our team initiates your home’s emergency preparedness plan, including:

• Securing outdoor furniture and equipment

• Installing storm shutters or protective measures

• Coordinating sandbagging or drainage solutions

• Monitoring local forecasts and issuing updates

• Performing post-storm inspections and documenting any damage

With Tongue & Groove Property Services, you’ll never have to wonder what’s happening back home during a weather event—we’re on the ground and on call.

Local Vendor Management & Renovation Oversight

Need a trusted team to manage repairs, upgrades, or ongoing services? Consider it done. We work directly with vetted contractors and vendors to coordinate:

• Routine maintenance (HVAC, pest control, landscaping)

• Renovations and remodels

• Pool and spa servicing

• Annual inspections and system upgrades

We supervise work onsite, maintain schedules, and ensure every detail aligns with your expectations, even when you’re hundreds of miles away.

Your Home. Our Responsibility.

At Tongue & Groove Property Services, we believe second-home ownership should feel effortless. Whether you're in residence a few times a year or every other weekend, our concierge team handles the details with the discretion and care you’d expect from Wilmington’s premier estate management provider.

Interested in a custom property care plan for your second home?
Let’s discuss how we can serve you with behind-the-scenes excellence.

Renovating with Purpose: Why Homeowners Turn to Tongue & Groove for Expert Renovations

Whether you're modernizing a primary residence or updating a seasonal retreat, home renovations along the coast come with a unique set of considerations. Salt air, shifting weather patterns, aging materials, and changing lifestyle needs all influence the timing, scope, and strategy of a successful remodel.

At Tongue & Groove Property Services, we specialize in thoughtful, well-executed renovations that respect the original character of a home while enhancing its performance, functionality, and value.

When Is the Right Time to Renovate a Coastal Home?

Homeowners often ask: When should we renovate? The answer depends on your goals—but there are a few common triggers we see among our clients:

• Pre-arrival prep: Updating finishes, layouts, or systems before returning to a second home

• Post-storm repair: Replacing weather-damaged materials or improving resiliency

• Aging infrastructure: Upgrading HVAC, windows, or roofing for efficiency and durability

• Changing needs: Adapting spaces for multigenerational living, entertaining, or remote work

• Increasing value: Renovating before listing or refinancing a home

No matter the reason, your investment deserves a team that understands the demands of coastal construction—and how to execute it seamlessly with minimal disruption.

Types of Renovations We Manage

Our in-house team, in collaboration with Tongue & Groove Design + Build, delivers both minor enhancements and full-scale transformations. Typical renovation services include:

• Kitchen & bathroom remodels

• Flooring and millwork updates

• Exterior siding, window, and door replacements

• Outdoor living space redesigns (pools, patios, kitchens)

• Full interior gut renovations or additions

• Energy efficiency and system upgrades

• Custom cabinetry and finish carpentry

We bring the same level of craftsmanship and project oversight to a powder room refresh as we do to a whole-home transformation.

Our Property Services Advantage: White-Glove Renovation Support

What sets Tongue & Groove apart is our full-circle support, including dedicated property services oversight during and after construction. Our clients benefit from:

• A single point of contact managing timelines, access, and quality control

• Secure handling of keyholder services and contractor coordination

• On-site walkthroughs and photo updates for absentee homeowners

• Post-renovation cleaning, inspections, and long-term care options

We manage the details so you don’t have to—and ensure your home is protected throughout the entire renovation process.

Renovating While You’re Away? No Problem.

For many second-homeowners, the idea of renovating from afar can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in. Our estate management clients trust us to oversee their renovations while they’re out of town—coordinating everything from design meetings and permitting to final punch lists.

When you return, the only thing left to do is enjoy.

Ready to Reimagine Your Home?

Whether you’re updating a single space or embarking on a full transformation, Tongue & Groove Property Services offers an unmatched renovation experience—with precision, discretion, and a deep understanding of coastal living.

Let’s talk about your renovation goals. We’ll build the plan—and manage the process—so your vision becomes reality.