As the leaves begin to change color and fall from the trees, now is the time to start thinking about fall home maintenance. In California, we are lucky that our autumns are relatively mild, but there are still a few things we need to do to get our homes ready for the winter months. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

1. Check your windows and doors. As the temperature starts to drop, make sure that your doors and windows are properly sealed to keep the heat in and the cold out. Drafty windows and doors can not only make your home uncomfortable, but they can also raise your energy bills. Checking for drafts is easy - just place your hand near the window or door and see if you feel a draft of cold air. If you do, caulking and weather-stripping are typically all that's needed to fix the problem.

2. Clean out your gutters and downspouts. This is an important task to do before the first rains of Fall start, as clogged gutters can lead to water damage on both the exterior and interior of your home. First, remove any leaves or debris from your gutters using a garden hose or a small hand shovel. Then, flush out your downspouts with water to make sure they're clear. If you have any problem areas, you may need to use a plumbers' snake to clear them out.

3. Inspect your roof. Fall is a good time to inspect your roof for any damaged or missing shingles, as well as any other signs of wear and tear. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, you can always hire a professional roofer to come take a look for you.

4. Service your heating system. Before the cold weather really sets in, it's a good idea to have your heating system serviced by a professional. This will help ensure that it is running efficiently and that there are no potential safety hazards.

5. Change Your Air Filter. This is something that should be done every few months - but if you haven't changed your air filter in a while, now's the time! A clean air filter will help improve indoor air quality and keep dust and allergens out of your home. It will also help prolong the life of your HVAC system by keeping it from working overtime to circulate air through a dirty filter

By following these simple tips, you can rest assured that your home will be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws our way this winter. For more information on fall home maintenance, or any other real estate needs, please contact me today! I am always happy to help!