As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to paint the landscape and cooler temperatures settle in, it’s time for homeowners to shift their focus from summer fun to preparing their homes for the winter months. Fall is the perfect season to tackle maintenance tasks that will ensure your home remains cozy, efficient, and in good condition throughout the colder months.

Inspect and Maintain Heating Systems

Before the cold weather hits, ensure your heating system is ready to perform its best. Schedule a professional inspection for your furnace or boiler to check for any issues and make necessary repairs. Change air filters to maintain optimal airflow and efficiency. If you have a fireplace or wood stove, have it inspected and cleaned to prevent dangerous chimney fires and ensure safe operation.

Clean and Inspect Gutters

Falling leaves can quickly clog gutters, leading to potential water damage and ice dams as temperatures drop. Clean out leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, consider hiring a professional. Keeping gutters clear will help prevent water from backing up and potentially causing damage to your home’s foundation or roof.

Prepare Pipes and Outdoor Faucets

Frozen pipes can be a homeowner’s nightmare during winter. To prevent freezing, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, and shut off exterior water valves. Insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements or crawl spaces. If you have an irrigation system, schedule a winterization service to avoid costly repairs in the spring.

Check and Seal Windows and Doors

As temperatures drop, drafts can sneak into your home through gaps around windows and doors. Inspect caulking and weather stripping for wear and tear. Replacing worn or missing caulk is an inexpensive way to improve energy efficiency, reduce heat loss, and prevent moisture from entering.

Service Your Lawn Equipment

With the end of the growing season, it’s time to prepare your lawn equipment for storage. Clean and service your mower, and consider adding fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation. Store equipment in a dry place to protect it from the elements.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly. Replace batteries if needed and consider upgrading detectors if they’re outdated. This simple step can provide peace of mind and ensure your home is safe during the colder months.

Clean and Store Seasonal Items

As you transition from summer to fall, take the time to clean and properly store seasonal items. This includes patio furniture, grills, and garden tools. Proper storage will prolong the life of these items and make them ready for use when warmer weather returns.

Check Insulation and Ventilation

Ensure your home’s insulation is adequate, especially in attics and crawl spaces. Proper insulation can help keep heating costs down and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Also, check ventilation systems to ensure they’re working efficiently and are not obstructed by dust or debris.

By addressing these fall home maintenance tasks, you’ll not only enhance the comfort and efficiency of your home but also avoid potential issues that could arise during the winter months. Taking a proactive approach now will help you to enjoy the beauty of autumn while knowing that your home is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

I have included sales numbers for January through August of this year. In addition to the 450 homes sold during this period, another 93 homes are currently pending or are under contract. This is identical to this same time last year, when 93 single family home sales were pending as of the date of writing.

The included data reflects sales of homes in the greater Bozeman area, including Four Corners, Gallatin Gateway, Bridger Canyon, and within Bozeman city limits. The data includes home sales reported through the local Big Sky Country MLS, and does not include private party sales, condominiums, or townhouses.