After adjusting your clocks back, start thinking about getting your home ready for winter. A little preparation now will ensure a cozy, comfortable season ahead!

Ensure your gutters are clear for proper drainage; gutter guards can be helpful in treed areas. Also, check your roof for missing shingles or any damage before the heaviest weather begins.

Rake leaves from your lawn to keep it healthy and prevent brown spots. This is also a good time to fertilize and reseed before it gets colder. Pruning plants and mulching sensitive ones will encourage spring growth.

Stow patio furniture in a cool, dry space to protect it and prevent mold. Winterize your lawn mower by stabilizing or draining the fuel and removing the battery for dry storage.

Check your home’s exterior for cracks around doors and windows to avoid high heating bills. Add caulking or weather stripping to prevent drafts.

A warm fire is nice, but if your chimney hasn’t been inspected in a few years, wait before lighting one. An inspection will ensure the flue seals properly and the chimney functions correctly to prevent smoke and drafts.

Have a professional inspect your furnace to confirm it’s operating properly. Replace the air filter and clean the ducts to boost efficiency.

Now is a good time to check that all safety devices are working. Change the batteries in your detectors and keep extras on hand for future use.

If you have questions about maintaining your home, preparing for seasonal changes or the real estate market in general, I’m here to answer them!