How to prepare your home for the changing seasons

As the seasons change, so should the maintenance of your home.  Here are things you should look into to make sure your home stays in good shape all year long, saving you time and money in the long run.

Winter

• Drain and turn off your outdoor faucets to prevent ice from building up.
• Store all fall decorations in a shed or other storage area.
• Make sure your furnace and water heater are working.
• Check your roof for leaks and damage, and make repairs if necessary.
• Prepare for ice and snow by purchasing sand, de-icer, snow shovels, etc.
• Ensure that smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide detectors have new batteries.
• Set the water heater at the right temperature and drain any sediment if necessary.

Spring

• Uncover flower beds and restore those that were damaged.
• Start seeding your lawn now to prepare for your next garden project.
• Inspect your roof for any possible damage sustained during the winter.
• Get your gardening tools ready and lubricate your machines.
• Prune your bushes to maintain a tidy garden.
• Wash your windows to get rid of any frost-related debris.
• Declutter your house and get rid of anything you no longer use.

Summer

• Clean your drainage system to prevent mud buildup during heavy spring rains.
• Any house repairs, especially painting, are best done during summer.
• Consider hiring professionals to repair your patio, deck, or fences for speed and convenience.
• Inspect faucets and showerheads for leaks and replace damaged washers and seals.
• Add furniture and accessories to your outdoor spaces.
• Clean coils and change faulty seals on refrigerators.
• Check sprinkler systems.

Fall

• Clear the gutters to avoid clogged downspouts and debris buildup.
• Keep your yard clean to avoid clogging the drainage system and flooding.
• Check your furnace for dirt buildup. This process will help you prepare your house for the winter.
• Store your patio furniture to ensure it stays in good shape.
• Cover your flower beds to prevent any frosting and damage that could occur during the winter.
• Inspect your roof and look for any materials that need replacing.
• Get rid of any unwanted weeds in your garden.

While owning a house comes with a great deal of responsibility, maintaining it the right way will make it more valuable and prevent future problems. And if you want to protect your home more effectively, consider hiring professionals to help with certain preparations.

LET THE EXPERTS ASSIST YOU WITH ALL OF YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS

A professional real estate team such as Coldwell Banker Winthrop Realty has the expertise and network to assist you in preparing your home for sale whatever the season.

Alternatively, if you’re tired of all the upkeep that comes with owning an older property, it may be time to consider purchasing a new home in Washington’s Methow Valley.

Explore our website to find an extensive selection of homes and condos for sale in Mazama, Winthrop, Twisp, Carlton, Methow, and across Okanogan County in Washington.  And if you don’t find what you were looking for, please contact us so that we can assist you further. Call 509.996.2121 or send an email.