Your Fall & Winter Honey-Do List: A Fun Guide to Prepping Your Home for the Season

Fall is here, and before you know it, Western New York will be blanketed in snow. The change of seasons is the perfect time to check off a few tasks that will keep your home cozy, safe, and ready for the months ahead. At Great Lakes Real Estate, we like to think of this as your seasonal “honey-do” list — a chance to get ahead of winter and maybe have a little fun while you’re at it.

1. Button Up Your Home

Cold weather loves finding its way in through tiny cracks and gaps. Walk around your home and check doors and windows for drafts. Weatherstripping and caulking are inexpensive fixes that will save you big on heating costs later.

2. Show Your Furnace Some Love

Your furnace will soon be the MVP of the house. Change your filter, vacuum vents, and consider a professional tune-up to keep things running efficiently. Bonus: a clean system means better air quality all winter long.

3. Leaf Duty

Raking leaves may not sound glamorous, but removing them helps your lawn stay healthy and prevents slippery walkways once the snow hits. If you’re feeling creative, mulch them for compost — your garden will thank you come spring.

4. Fire It Up

If you have a fireplace, have the chimney inspected and cleaned. There’s nothing like the first fire of the season — and a safe, clean chimney means you can enjoy it without worry.

5. Outdoor TLC

Drain garden hoses, store outdoor furniture, and check gutters for clogs. This prevents damage from freezing and thawing and keeps water flowing away from your foundation.

6. Emergency Check-In

Stock up on salt, shovels, and batteries. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. You’ll thank yourself when the first real snowstorm rolls in.

7. Plan for Cozy Upgrades

Fall is a great time to add some seasonal charm — warm throws, layered rugs, and inviting entryway décor make your home feel as cozy as it looks.

Why This Matters

A little prep now saves a lot of time (and money) later. Plus, buyers notice when a home is well cared for — if selling is on your radar, this checklist helps you stay ahead.

Ready for More Than Just a Honey-Do List?

If your plans include a move before winter or after the holidays, call Great Lakes Real Estate today at (716) 754-2550. We’ll help you find the perfect place to hibernate this winter — or get your current home ready to sell.