Fall Clean-Up Checklist for Mid-Michigan Homeowners

 As the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to fall, Mid-Michigan homeowners know winter isn’t far behind. Taking time in the fall to prepare your home inside and out can save you money, protect your investment, and make for a much more comfortable season ahead. Here’s a simple checklist to guide you through the most important fall clean-up tasks.

1. Yard & Garden Care

Start with your outdoor spaces. Rake and bag leaves or mulch them directly into your lawn to provide natural nutrients. Trim back shrubs and perennials to keep them healthy through the winter, and don’t forget to fertilize and reseed your lawn. A little effort now helps ensure that your landscaping bounces back strong once spring arrives.

2. Gutter & Roof Maintenance

Leaves and debris can quickly clog gutters and downspouts, leading to water damage and even ice dams when the snow begins to melt. Clean out gutters thoroughly and check your roof for any missing shingles or weak spots. If you have a chimney, fall is the perfect time for an inspection before the first fire of the season.

3. Protecting the Exterior

Cold weather can be hard on your home’s exterior. Be sure to disconnect and store your hoses, and shut off outdoor faucets to prevent frozen pipes. Inspect the caulking around windows and doors to seal drafts and improve energy efficiency. You may also want to pressure wash decks, patios, and siding before winter grime sets in.

4. Indoor Comfort & Safety

Inside your home, schedule a furnace inspection to ensure your heating system is ready to go. Replace filters and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for efficiency. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries as needed—safety should always come first.

5. Winter Readiness

Being prepared means more than just maintenance. Stock up on firewood, salt, and snow shovels now, so you’re not caught off guard by the first storm. Reversing your ceiling fans to push warm air down can also make your home feel cozier without overworking your furnace.

6. Protecting Your Investment

Completing this fall checklist is about more than comfort—it’s about protecting one of your biggest investments: your home. Regular seasonal upkeep not only helps you avoid costly repairs but also adds value if you ever decide to sell. If buying or selling a home is in your plans this fall or winter, I’d be happy to help guide you through the process.

📲 Call 989-714-7427 or message me, Mark Torres, Realtor® with Ayre Rhinehart Bay, and let’s talk about your next move. Home is where your story begins—and I’d love to help you write the next chapter.

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