School is back in, your favorite pumpkin spice drink has returned to the menu, and you’ve spotted the first yellow leaf on the front lawn…that’s right, Fall is quickly approaching! As the temperatures begin to drop, and the sun seems to set a little bit earlier, its time to get your home ready for fall. Here are some tips to ensure your home is in tip top shape for the fall market.
Outdoor Maintenance
Clean gutters and downspouts to remove leaves, debris, and any blockages that could lead to water overflow and potential damage. Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles and address any necessary repairs before winter weather sets in. Check walkways and driveways for cracks or uneven surfaces and repair them to avoid tripping hazards. Trim trees and shrubs, especially overhanging branches, to prevent them from causing damage during storms or heavy snowfall. Regularly raking leaves from your yard will help prevent them from smothering your lawn. For a healthy and vibrant lawn next spring, consider fertilizing, aerating, and overseeding. Prepare your garden by removing dead annuals and mulching perennial beds to enjoy new growth next spring. Winterize outdoor faucets by turning off exterior water sources and draining hoses to prevent freezing.
Seller’s tips
If you are planning on selling your home in the fall or winter, this is a good time to take photos. Capturing photos of what your yard looks like in the late summer months will help a buyer visualize the possibilities for the yard when the trees are bare, and the yard is blanketed with snow. Colorful fall displays help warm up the curb appeal; however, avoid using seasonal holiday props in your real estate photos as these will age your listing if your house doesn’t sell quickly. Stage your outdoor spaces with outdoor furniture, firepits, and inviting décor to encourage year-round use of outdoor spaces.
Indoor preparations
With colder weather looming, it is important that your home’s mechanical systems are running properly. If it hasn’t been done in a while, you may want to consider scheduling a professional HVAC inspection and cleaning to confirm that your heating system is in good working condition. Replace or clean your furnace filters to boost air quality and efficiency. Check sinks, toilets, tubs and appliances for signs of leaks, and address any issues to avoid damages. To improve energy efficiency, inspect for drafts around windows and doors, sealing any gaps with weatherstripping or caulking. If you have a fireplace, have it inspected and cleaned by a professional before use. For safety, test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries as needed to ensure they are functioning properly.
Seller’s tips
Clean and organize your home, preparing it for sale. A deep cleaning, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms will help make your house shine. Professional carpet cleaning is advisable to freshen up your rooms and prepare them for showing. Summer gear can be packed up and prepared for your move. Declutter your space, putting away personal photos and editing down your belongings to increase the functionality of your home and make it appear larger and more efficient. Warm up the atmosphere with cozy accents, like blankets, seasonal flowers, and candles. Draw focus to the winter-friendly features in your home such as fireplaces, reading nooks, and luxurious bedrooms.
Selling your home in the fall can be a rewarding experience, especially with the right team by your side. The Jason Rustand Team is committed to guiding you through every step of the selling process, from staging and marketing to negotiating the best possible price. With our deep understanding of the Leduc market and a personalized approach tailored to your unique needs, we make selling your home smooth and stress-free, even as the seasons change. Trust the Jason Rustand Team to help you close the deal this fall and start your next chapter with confidence.