If you plan on selling in the spring, it’s essential that you “fall-proof” your home and ensure it’s ready for the incoming weather. These are some of the important home improvements that increase value, because they decrease risk! Taking the right steps to protect your biggest asset is important, and it’s even more important to safeguard your home against the potentially-devastating effects of nature.
Here are some quick and easy exterior improvements that you can use to proof your home this fall…
1. Rake the Leaves
You might not love raking up leaves, but your lawn will appreciate it! Neglecting to rake the leaves on your lawn can cause unnecessary damage to it – resulting in potentially-permanent damage to your grass once the snow clears. All it takes is one afternoon, and you can even make a game of it! Get your family to see who can make the biggest pile, and then jump in (just make sure whoever wins also bags up the mess afterwards).
2. Clear the Gutters
Did you know that a debris-clogged gutter can cause a leaky roof, or water damage to the exterior (and the interior) of your home? You’re going to want to make sure that your gutters are squeaky clean, especially before a long Canadian winter. It’s another task that we might not love, but it’s so important to preserve the long-term health of your home. After all, who wants to start their spring with water damage?
3. Drain the Hose
This might be an easy one to miss since it’s so small – but it’s crucial! Chances are you’re familiar with your hose outside, but what you should know is that it’s essential to turn off and completely drain it before winter. This will help to avoid the pipes from freezing and subsequently bursting. This is an entirely unavoidable problem and can be easily done with a little bit of foresight (and patience).
4. Seal the Cracks
Have you spotted any cracks in your foundation? Before winter hits, and all the potential damage from melting snow comes with it, make sure that you seal any cracks in and around your home. This way, you’re fixing a big problem before it even has the chance to appear. The last thing you’re going to want is damage to your foundation, especially if you’re looking to sell once the weather turns back to beautiful.
5. Check Everything!
Going from summer to fall to winter is a huge transition, and your home deserves a lot of love during this time. Do a complete once-over of everything in your home, so that you’re not left with any potential issues. Check your chimneys, protect air conditioning unit, inspect your heating system and your insulation, all of it! Not only will it help you sleep at night, but it’ll keep you warm, too. Need someone to help give your home a once-over? Just ask us, chances are we know the perfect person who can help prep your home for the fall (and before the winter).
Home improvements that increase value are easier than you think, and it’s because they help mitigate risk down the road. Thinking about selling once the winter is over? Let’s start by discussing your needs and how we can help. Call us at 416.443.0300 email us at Erica@ericareddy.com, or contact us here to get started!
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