Fall is officially here bringing its crisp, cool air and vibrant colors. While cozy sweaters and hot cocoa may be on your mind, it’s also the ideal time to focus on your home and prepare it for the chilly months ahead.

Our team at Long & Foster has put together a few tips to do now to keep you comfortable and protect your home from winter weather. It’s a good idea to keep a record of your home maintenance routine to pass on to the new owner of your home when you sell it.

Shut off outside water faucets. Close valves inside the house, then turn on the outside spigot to drain any remaining water from the line. Some newer homes have a pin at the shut-off valve that must be opened to let air in the line, which helps keep pipes from freezing.

Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves, branches, and other debris. Clogged gutters can cause water and ice to collect under your shingles, potentially damaging your roof. Clean outside drains of leaves to prevent water back-ups into your basement.

Seal Windows & Doors. Air leaks around doors and windows causes heat loss and increases energy costs. Replace or add caulk to the outside of windows, door frames, crevices or any place where heat is escaping.

Have your furnace checked by a professional before winter sets in.Change your furnace filter at least every two months. A clean filter limits dust, improves furnace efficiency and keeps utility costs low.

Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors once a month and replace old batteries promptly. Each floor of your home should have detectors. Properties with gas heat or a wood-burning fireplace should also have a carbon monoxide detector.

Please feel free to contact your Long & Foster Real Estate agent if you need help with any home maintenance projects this season. They can connect you with home service providers and share tips to keep your home running in good condition.

If you’re planning to sell your home, your agent can also advise you on the best ways to prepare it to maximize your investment.