Getting Your Home Ready for Fall

With summer over, it’s the perfect time to start preparing for the approaching winter months. Here are some important tips to help you start getting your home ready for fall.

Clean your Chimney

One of the last things you want to worry about is having your chimney catch on fire. That’s why it is important you regularly check for any buildup of creosote. If there is a sticky black substance thicker than ¼ inch on the back of your chimney, you should schedule a cleaning and refrain from using your fireplace. Meanwhile, prepare by collecting plenty of firewood to last you in the upcoming colder months.

Inspect the Furnace

Check your furnace and other heating systems to ensure they are in good condition and ready to be used. Even if you don’t have your furnace professionally checked, give it a thorough visual inspection. You should replace your furnace filter, even if it looks fine. One important way to maintain your water heater’s lifetime is by cleaning sediment out, which reduces the chance of clogs and increases energy efficiency.

Organize your Tools

Gather your most used fall tools so they are easily accessible, such as a leaf blower or rake. This will keep you from rummaging through your garage or tool shed when you’re ready to use them. You can even pull out your winter tools (ice scraper, shovel, snow blower) to really get ahead of the game. When putting away your garden hoses, make sure you drain all the water out or you’ll risk having to replace them if they rip when frozen water is trapped inside. You should also drain your outdoor faucets and sprinklers after cutting off the water supply.

Empty the Gutters

It is a popular belief that you only need to clean your gutters out after leaves and other debris start falling, but that’s not true. Be proactive and clean the gutters regularly to prevent clogs before they happen. This will not only require less time and effort but will extend the lifetime of your gutters and could save you from unexpected costs, such as foundation or landscape damages. If you’re not one for maintenance, hire professionals or consider installing gutter guards to really remove the headache of cleaning.

Check your Windows and Doors

The weather stripping on your doors or windows might have leaks. This means that the hot air from your home could be leaking outdoors (and cool air might have been escaping all summer). If you do find leaks, replacing the stripping is a reasonably easy DIY project. If you have the funds, replacing windows or doors with more energy-efficient options will save money you in the long run.

Taking care and maintaining your home is your responsibility as a home owner. These tasks shouldn’t take more than a weekend to knock out. Even if you live in an area that doesn’t experience winter, some of these tasks still apply to your home. Once completed, you can have peace of mind knowing your home is ready for the change in season.

Fall is also a great time to purchase a home. For those looking for a dream home and finding one that needs a little TLC, there are renovation and rehab loan options that will help cover costs. For more information about renovation loans or the homebuying process, contact one of our licensed Mortgage Loan Originators. If you are ready to begin the process, click here to get started!

These blogs are for informational purposes only. Make sure you understand the features associated with the loan program you choose, and that it meets your unique financial needs. Subject to Debt-to-Income and Underwriting requirements. This is not a credit decision or a commitment to lend. Eligibility is subject to completion of an application and verification of home ownership, occupancy, title, income, employment, credit, home value, collateral, and underwriting requirements. Not all programs are available in all areas. Offers may vary and are subject to change at any time without notice. Should you have any questions about the information provided, please contact us.