Summer is over, and now is the time to take care of a few important chores and get home ready for Vermont winter. Those cold nights and mornings seem to arrive quickly, so it’s nice to have a these essential items checked off before the first snow. Your future self will thank you for taking care of them now, helping prevent unexpected problems and keeping your home comfortable through the winter.

Here are a few things worth adding to your October to-do list.

Check for Air Leaks

As the first cold mornings arrive, take a walk around your home and check for drafts around exterior doors and windows. Those small leaks may not seem like much in October, but you'll notice them a lot more when the temperature drops and the heat is running around the clock. Some fixes are relatively simple, such as adding weatherstripping or caulking around windows. Larger gaps or areas that are difficult to identify may be worth having a contractor evaluate.

Have Your Chimney Cleaned & Inspected

Many Vermont homes have a fireplace or woodstove, so now is the time to make sure it's ready for another season. For many homeowners, a woodstove is essential for getting through the colder months. A professional chimney cleaning and inspection can remove built-up creosote and identify potential problems before you start using the fireplace regularly.

Schedule Your Annual Furnace Service

Whether your home is heated by a furnace, heat pump, boiler, or another system, fall is the time to make sure everything is ready for the colder months. Nobody wants to discover a heating problem when temperatures drop below zero. Having it professionally serviced in the fall gives you a chance to catch potential issues before they become a midwinter emergency.

It's also a good time to check your filters. Many filters should be replaced about every three months, although the right schedule depends on the type of filter and your home's system. A clean filter helps your system operate efficiently and can contribute to better indoor air quality.

Check Filters and Vents

Your heating system isn't the only thing in the house that relies on a clean filter. Fall is a good time to work through the filters, vents, and exhaust areas throughout your home.

Depending on what you have, your list might include:

• Furnace or heat pump filters

• Refrigerator water filters

• Dishwasher filters

• Air purifiers and humidifiers

• Vacuum filters

• Dryer lint filters and exhaust ducts

• Range hood and over-the-range microwave filters

Some need regular replacement, while others simply need a good cleaning. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for each appliance rather than assuming everything follows the same schedule.

Clean Your Gutter and Downspouts

Once the leaves start falling, gutters can fill up quickly. Clear out leaves and debris so rainwater and melting snow can drain properly and help prevent ice buildup and roofline problems. Check that downspouts direct water away from your home and aren't leaking or loose. If your gutters are difficult to reach or you're not comfortable on a ladder, leave this one to a professional.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors don't require much attention, but they're among the most important systems in your home to keep in working order. Test your detectors regularly and replace batteries according to the manufacturer's recommendations. If a detector is nearing the end of its recommended service life, replace it rather than waiting for it to fail. It's a small task that can be easy to overlook, but definitely one worth keeping on the list.

A Little Fall Maintenance Goes a Long Way

Vermont winters have a way of putting our homes to the test. Taking care of a few maintenance items in the fall can help you avoid scrambling for repairs in the middle of January, when the weather is less forgiving and local service providers are often busy.

And you don't have to tackle everything yourself. If you need a furnace technician, chimney professional, contractor, or another local service provider, our Coldwell Banker Islands Realty agents are happy to point you toward trusted local resources. Reach out to our team for recommendations and get your home ready for the season ahead.

With Autumn’s arrival, now’s the perfect time to get your home ready for winter. Completing a few key tasks can save you from expensive repairs and ensure your home stays cozy and efficient through the colder months. Use this checklist to winterize your home and protect your investment:

1. Seal Cracks Around Windows and Doors
Prevent drafts and save on heating by sealing any gaps around windows and doors. Use caulking or weatherstripping to keep the cold air out and the warmth in, improving your home’s energy efficiency and comfort.

2. Clean Your Gutters
Falling leaves can clog your gutters, leading to water damage, pests, and a shortened roof lifespan. Clean them out to prevent these issues and ensure water flows away from your home properly.

3. Inspect Your Roof
Check for missing shingles, cracks, or other damage before snow arrives. Addressing minor roof issues now can prevent major problems later, such as leaks or structural damage when winter weather hits.

4. Trim Trees and Bushes
Overgrown branches near your home can become hazards in winter storms. Trim back trees and bushes to prevent limbs from falling on your roof or causing other damage during heavy snowfall or strong winds.

5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Cold weather often means more time spent indoors, with heaters and fireplaces in use. Ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working by testing them and replacing batteries as needed for safety.

6. Service Your Chimney and Fireplace
Before lighting the first fire of the season, have your chimney and fireplace inspected and cleaned. This reduces the risk of fire hazards and ensures your fireplace is ready for cozy winter nights.

7. Remove Window Screens and Install Storm Windows
Take down window screens to protect them from winter weather. Consider installing storm windows or doors to provide extra insulation and keep your home warmer during cold months.

8. Winterize Power Equipment
Store away summer tools like lawnmowers and bring out snow removal equipment. Test your snowblower and other winter gear to ensure everything is in working order before the first snowfall.

9. Cover Outdoor Furniture
Protect outdoor furniture from the harsh winter elements by covering or storing it away. This helps extend the life of your patio furniture, grills, and outdoor accessories.

10. Shut Off Outdoor Faucets and Drain Hoses
Avoid frozen pipes by shutting off outdoor faucets and draining hoses or sprinkler systems. Water left inside can freeze, expand, and cause costly damage, so be sure to winterize these systems properly.

For more expert home maintenance tips or personalized advice on getting your home market-ready this fall, reach out to a Coldwell Banker Islands Realty agent today. Let us help you keep your home in top shape—whether you’re staying for the season or preparing to sell!
 

Fall in Vermont is a magical time of year. As the vibrant hues of summer fade into the crisp shades of fall, our homes undergo a transformation too. Creating curb appeal isn't just vital when you're selling your home; it's about taking pride in your property and making it a welcoming haven for your family and guests. A well-maintained exterior not only leaves a lasting impression on visitors but also adds value to your property. This fall, seize the opportunity to elevate your home's charm. Below are five easy ways to boost your curb appeal during this enchanting season.

1. Embrace Fall Foliage

The natural beauty of fall presents an excellent opportunity to enhance your home's curb appeal. Planting seasonal flowers like chrysanthemums, pansies, or marigolds can add vibrant pops of color. Additionally, consider incorporating autumnal elements like pumpkins, gourds, and hay bales into your landscaping. These simple touches can transform your outdoor space into a warm and inviting sanctuary. 

2. Illuminate Your Entryway 

As the days grow shorter, adequate lighting becomes crucial. Upgrade your outdoor lighting fixtures to create a warm ambiance. Consider adding path lights along the walkway and installing a stylish pendant light or a pair of sconces near the entrance. Proper lighting not only enhances safety but also highlights the architectural features of your home, boosting its overall appeal.

3. Revitalize Your Front Door: 

Your front door is a focal point that can greatly influence your home's curb appeal. This fall, consider giving your door a fresh coat of paint in a bold, autumn-inspired color such as deep red, rich brown, or forest green. Don't forget to polish the hardware or even invest in a new doorknob and knocker to complete the look. A well-maintained and visually appealing front door instantly elevates your home's charm.

4. Tend to Your Lawn and Garden: 

Fall is the perfect time to prepare your lawn and garden for the upcoming seasons. Rake fallen leaves, trim overgrown bushes, and remove any dead plants. Invest in quality mulch to nourish your garden beds and protect your plants during the colder months. A manicured lawn and well-tended garden not only enhance your home's curb appeal but also create a serene outdoor space for relaxation.

5. Spruce Up The Exterior of Your Home

One of the most overlooked aspects of curb appeal is the cleanliness of your home's exterior. Over the year, dirt, grime, and debris can accumulate on your house, making it look worn and unkempt. This fall, make it a priority to assess the exterior of your home and consider cleaning the gutters, pressure washing your siding, and/or washing your windows. Clean gutters will not only look good, it will ensure water flows properly away from your home preventing future issues during the winter. Pressure washing will remove stubborn stains, dirt, and cobwebs restoring the siding's original color. A good window washing will enhance the view and appearance of your home. 

Boosting your curb appeal this fall isn't just a way to impress potential buyers; it's a means of expressing your pride in your home and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for everyone who visits. By embracing the beauty of fall, focusing on illumination, revitalizing your front door, tending to your lawn and garden, and paying attention to the exterior details, you can transform your home into a stunning masterpiece. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your gardening tools, and get ready to enhance your home's appeal this fall. Your dreamy, autumn-inspired abode awaits!

Want a professional opinion on how to improve your home? Connect with a real estate expert today.

 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. Seal cracks around windows and doors.

This will help 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. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. 

To make sure these detectors are working properly, take the time to check the function and replace the batteries if need be.

6. Have your chimney or fireplace serviced.

Before the cool weather arrives, 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.

7. Remove window screens and screen doors.

This will help the longevity of your screens. Also, consider installing storm windows and doors. 

8. Winterize summer power equipment.

Store away the lawn mower and bring out your snowblower. While you are doing this, test out your winter equipment to make sure there are no issues before the first snowfall. 

9. Cover or store away outdoor furniture.

You most likely will not be using your hammock so, to protect your outdoor furniture from the winter elements we recommend covering them or storing them away. 

10. Shut off faucets and drain hoses or sprinklers.

If there is any access water in the faucet or hose it will freeze and possibly burst causing more damage. Ensure that the water is shut off and put away any hoses to prevent this.

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.