As the cold weather sets in, you should take several steps to prepare your home correctly. Doing routine home maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs as well as prepare and budget for updates that might be needed. Save yourself the headache in the spring, and take the steps below to winterize your home.

1. Remove window screens and screen doors and seal any cracks.

This will help the longevity of your screens. Also, consider installing storm windows and doors. Also seal any cracks to prevent drafts and keep the heat shut inside.

2. Clean your gutters.

Cleaning your gutters every fall has numerous benefits. This task prevents water damage and rot, a place for pests to nest, plus it helps the overall lifespan of your roof and foundation. 

3. Inspect your roof.

Make sure to examine your roof. Look for any damage such as missing shingles or cracks and get them repaired before the snow falls. If you ignore these issues, the harsh winter months could exacerbate what was once minor damage. 

4. Trim trees and bushes.

Cut back any overgrown bushes or large unsteady branches that could break off near the roof or home. 

5. Have your chimney or fireplace serviced.

Before the cool weather sets in, it is best to have your chimney and fireplace cleaned before running. Not only is this good fire safety practice, it will clear out any critters that may have found their way in.

For more home maintenance tips or advice on what to do before you list this fall, get in touch with a Coldwell Banker Islands Realty Agent.

This authentic Island farmhouse has been thoughtfully renovated and is located on 43 acres with 150 ft of deeded lake access on the Inland Sea. The property owners made sure to respect the character and tradition of the home which includes clapboard siding, white pine flooring, lots of bead board, period trim work, and covered porches. The kitchen was extensively renovated in 2022 with custom cabinets and drawers, a 10 ft x 3ft Island , honed granite countertops, a 6 burner commercial Grade Thor Range, Samsung stainless steel French door refrigerator and soapstone farmhouse sink.

Watch to see the interior and subscribe to our YouTube Channel to see more Hidden Vermont Homes!

The Lake Champlain Islands have been producing apples for generations. Fall apple picking is a must-try activity when visiting or living in Vermont. These popular Grand Isle County apple orchards have been family owned for generations. Learn more about them below! 

Allenholm Farm 

Allenholm Farm is located on South Street in South Hero, Vermont. Allenholm Farm has been around since 1870; the Allen family has run the farm for seven generations. According to the South Hero Land Trust, it is the oldest commercial apple orchard still operating in Vermont. They offer pick-your-own apples, desserts such as Papa Ray’s Pies, and the best maple creemees. 

Hackett's Orchard 

Family-owned since 1967, the 50-acre farm and market offer apples, fresh cider doughnuts, apple cider, cider slush, and even apple crisp! Hackett's Orchard has a total of 47 different varieties of apples. In September, they offer pick-your-own apples. Head to South Street to get your Vermont apples, pumpkins, and sweet treats.

Hall’s Orchard

Hall’s Orchard is a family-owned apple orchard located in Isle La Motte. The property in Isle La Motte has been in the Hall family since the late 1700s and the orchard has been family owned since 1828. The farmhouse is a historic structure made with stone quarried on the island and shows the famous ancient coral reef fossils. 

Owner-operator Allen Hall grows and harvests apples and pears on Main Street in the town of Isle La Motte, Vermont. The orchard has pick your own and fresh cider in season as well as pears, maple syrup, pumpkins, and honey!

The beautiful landscape, close-knit community, history, and countless places to explore are why so many are grateful to call the Champlain Islands home.

Thinking of making a move? Learn more about Life In The Champlain Islands or to begin your property search browse available homes in the Champlain Islands.

Curb appeal plays a huge part in getting buyers through the door in the fall selling season. While the flowers are fading and the cold weather sets in, it doesn’t mean it is time to abandon your outdoor spaces! Take advantage of the fall ambiance and use these tips to attract potential buyers.

1. Pressure Wash & Paint

Pressure washing will clear any debris and dirt from the home's exterior. Consider adding a fresh coat of paint to the front door or trim for a quick transformation.

2. Refresh Your Old Hardware

Replacing the doorknob and purchasing new house numbers is an affordable yet impactful way to take your home’s exterior appeal to the next level.

3. Add Outdoor Decor

Pick up some pumpkins or mums to draw the eye to your front entrance. Remember to complement your home's style, but less is often more when decorating.  

4. Clean the Gutters

Clearing out the gutters is both visually appealing and essential for home maintenance. This task prevents water damage, rot, and a place for pests to nest, and it helps the overall lifespan of the roof and foundation. 

5. Keep it Light

As the sun drops earlier, outdoor lighting will help improve your nighttime curb appeal.  Add some warm outdoor lights, such as solar lights, near your walkway, or clean your existing lighting.  

This fall remains a great time to sell your Vermont home. These curb appeal tricks will help you to create a warm and welcoming home to get your home noticed faster. Selling a home is complicated, but our agents at Coldwell Banker Islands Realty is here to guide you through every step.