Ask McEnearney: How can I prepare my home for the fall?

This week’s Q&A column is written by Sallie Seiy of McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. To learn more about this article and relevant Alexandria market news, contact Sallie at 703-798-4666 or email [email protected]. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.

Question: As a homeowner, how can I prepare my home for the fall?

Answer: Can you believe it’s already August?! While we are still in the hot, humidity of summer, the sounds of school bells and leaves falling are not too far off. Fall will come just as quickly as summer is fading.

With the change in seasons, there are new responsibilities as a homeowner. First step is to prepare.

Did you know Virginia’s 3-Day Sales Tax Holiday is coming up this weekend on Friday, August 5 until Sunday, August 7? Along with the traditional clothing, shoes and school supplies, you can also purchase emergency preparedness products and Energy Star™ and WaterSense™ products! Items like these could help you save money on your electricity and water bills or help in the event that a large snow or rainstorm knocks the power out or puts big tree branches down on your driveway.

A few of the products you can purchase this upcoming weekend that will benefit your home: generators, washing machines, chainsaws and accessories, shower heads, etc.

Around the house a few things you can do to prepare for the fall would be:

• Power-wash your exterior: Wash away the mold and mildew that summer can leave behind.
• Reseal your deck: This helps to prevent any cold moisture from penetrating your deck.
• Clean out your gutters: Fall means leaves falling and clogging your gutters.
• Schedule an HVAC fall tune up: Get on their calendars early in case there are repairs needed.
• Hunt for any air leaks: If there are any drafts coming from windows or doors, go ahead and caulk them to help keep heating costs down.
• Fireplace inspection: If you have one, get a chimney inspection prior to use!
• Battery Checks: Make sure your carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide batteries are changed out.

The final check — as the temperatures cool off and the outdoor plants go dormant, make sure to remove hoses and winterize your outdoor hose bibs!

When you are ready to sell your current home or start searching for a new one, please give me a call!

As a fifth generation Realtor and the granddaughter of an architect and builder, Sallie has deep roots in real estate. She is passionate for the charm, history, and architecture of Alexandria and its surrounding communities. If you would like more information on selling or buying in today’s complex market, contact Sallie today at 703-798-4666 or visit her website SallieSeiy.com.

If you would like a question answered in our weekly column or to set up an appointment with one of our Associates, please email: [email protected] or call 703-549-9292.

McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. www.McEnearney.com Equal Housing Opportunity. #WeAreAlexandria