Transitioning from Summer to Snowflakes: Fall & Winter Home Prep Made Simple

As the seasons shift and temperatures begin to dip, now is the perfect time to prep your home for the cozy months ahead. Whether you're in Edmond, Oklahoma or nestled in the mountains of Aspen, Colorado, prepping your property for fall and winter protects your investment and keeps your family safe and warm.

Here’s your comprehensive checklist to get your home winter-ready—from gutters to furnaces.

1. Inspect and Service Your HVAC System

Your heating system is about to be the star of the show, so make sure it’s ready for action:

• Schedule a professional HVAC tune-up to ensure it’s running efficiently.

• Replace filters to improve air quality and system performance.

• Consider installing a smart thermostat (like Ecobee or Nest) to manage heating and reduce energy costs.

Pro Tip: If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, now is the time for a chimney sweep and safety inspection.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Falling leaves are beautiful, but they wreak havoc on gutters.

• Clear out leaves, twigs, and debris to prevent blockages and ice dams.

• Make sure downspouts are draining at least 3 feet away from your home’s foundation.

• Consider adding gutter guards to minimize buildup throughout the season.

Clogged gutters can cause serious water damage during snow melts or heavy winter rain—so don’t skip this step!

3. Winterize Outdoor Living Areas

If you have a pergola, fire pit, or outdoor kitchen, these spaces need to be buttoned up for the season:

• Cover or store outdoor furniture.

• Drain and store garden hoses, and shut off exterior faucets to prevent frozen pipes.

• Protect patio surfaces with a sealant or power wash and add a concrete coating if necessary.

• If you have a generator, inspect and test it before winter storms hit.

4. Seal and Insulate for Efficiency

Cold drafts are sneaky and expensive. Combat them now:

• Check for air leaks around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal.

• Add or upgrade attic insulation (spray foam is a great option).

• Install door sweeps to reduce heat loss.

• Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles—especially important if you're in a snow-prone area.

If you're in a home with new stucco or exterior paint, fall is a good time to check for touch-ups or repairs before snow and ice set in.

5. Prep the Landscaping

Your lawn and garden need love before the frost:

• Trim trees and bushes, especially near power lines or your roof.

• Aerate and fertilize your lawn.

• Blow out sprinkler systems in cold-weather climates to avoid pipe bursts.

• Install landscape lighting for safer, brighter walkways during longer nights.

Bonus: Under-eave outlets and lighting can make holiday decorating a breeze!

6. Interior Comfort & Safety Checks

Inside your home, a few strategic upgrades and checks can make a huge difference:

• Reverse ceiling fans to push warm air down.

• Install LED lighting in garages or dimly lit areas.

• Upgrade bathrooms and kitchens with new granite or quartzite countertops for a stylish refresh.

• Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working.

• Stock up on essentials: salt for icy walkways, backup batteries, and emergency kits.

7. Consider Lock-and-Leave Features

If you travel during the winter or own a second home, fall is the ideal time to set up:

• Smart home monitoring systems

• Water shut-off valves

• Routine service checks by a property manager

Lock-and-leave properties are increasingly popular in Edmond and the Roaring Fork Valley, and buyers love turn-key homes that are low-maintenance during colder months.

8. Thinking About Selling This Fall or Winter?

Cooler months often bring motivated buyers and less competition, making it a great time to list your home. Plus, a well-prepared home with seasonal upgrades can stand out beautifully in winter photos.

If you’re thinking of selling—or buying—a home in Oklahoma or Colorado, we’d love to help. Our team is licensed in both states and ready to guide you through the process, whether you're settling into a cozy bungalow or investing in a mountain retreat.

Let’s Get Your Home Fall & Winter Ready

Taking the time now to prep your home will save you stress, money, and potential repairs later. Need help finding contractors, staging tips, or exploring your real estate options this season?

📩 Reach out today—we’re always here to help.