4 Things Proactive Homeowners Do in September

Now that the oppressive heat of summer is (hopefully) behind us, it’s time to focus on some other important things coming this fall. No, I’m not talking about football or tailgating, I’m referring to tasks that may have been overlooked because of the heat of summer. Fall is a great time to give your house a little extra love and maintenance.

So where are some places to begin? Kelley Walters, in a recent article on the National Association of REALTORS®’ Houselogic.com, gave some very helpful tips on how to stay ahead of some home maintenance projects this fall:

Stain the Deck. Help your deck field what winter throws at it by re-staining it this month. September's cooler temps and lower humidity make it the ideal time for this project.

Check Fire Extinguishers. According to the Red Cross, fires increase in the fall and winter. Keep your home fire safe by getting your fire extinguishers checked by a certified professional. Fire extinguishers do break down and malfunction. In fact, after six years they need to be emptied and reloaded. If you haven't already, buy one for each floor, and don’t forget the garage.

Spruce Up the Yard. Aerate your lawn, reseed or fertilize it if needed, and plant perennials and shrubs, which might even be on sale now. Your lawn will green up faster after winter, and the shrubs and perennials will have a chance to establish roots before the first freeze.

Inspect Your Home's Exterior. Spending money on roof repairs is no party, but neither is handing out buckets to the family to catch leaks in a winter storm. Inspect your roof and other big-ticket items, like siding, grading, and gutters before you've got problems. You'll cut costs by fixing them now and staying dry and warm all winter long.

Thanks to Kelley for these helpful starting points. Preventative maintenance in the fall is an investment that ensures safety, saves money, and secures the comfort and well-being of individuals throughout the winter months. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell real estate, be sure to consult your REALTOR® for ways to maximize your most valuable investment. REALTORS work for their clients and communities all year long. That’s Who We R®.