As the days get shorter and the temperatures start to drop, now is the perfect time to prepare your home for winter. A little preventative maintenance in the fall can save you from costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and keep your home safe and comfortable all season long.

Here’s a practical checklist every homeowner should tackle before the snow flies:

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters & Downspouts

Fallen leaves and debris can clog gutters, leading to ice dams and water damage. Clean them out and make sure downspouts are directing water at least a few feet away from your foundation.

2. Seal Drafts Around Windows and Doors

Check for gaps where heat can escape. A quick bead of caulking or fresh weatherstripping keeps your home cozy and reduces heating costs.

3. Service Your Furnace

Schedule a professional inspection and replace the furnace filter. Regular servicing extends the life of your system and ensures it runs efficiently when you need it most.

4. Check Your Roof and Attic

Look for missing shingles, loose flashing, or signs of leaks. In your attic, make sure insulation is intact and there’s no evidence of moisture.

5. Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Faucets

Frozen pipes can burst and cause expensive damage. Shut off exterior water lines, drain hoses, and store them for the winter.

6. Prepare Your Yard

Rake leaves, trim back overhanging branches, and cover or store patio furniture. A final lawn cut and fertilizer application help your grass bounce back in spring.

7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With furnaces and fireplaces running, fall is a prime time to double-check batteries and test all detectors. Safety first.

8. Clean Your Chimney and Fireplace

If you use a wood-burning fireplace, have the chimney cleaned to prevent buildup and reduce fire hazards.

9. Inspect Walkways and Driveways

Fill cracks or uneven spots before freeze-thaw cycles make them worse. This helps avoid tripping hazards when surfaces get icy.

10. Stock Up on Winter Essentials

Make sure you’ve got shovels, ice melt, and warm gear ready before the first big snowfall.

Final Thoughts

Staying on top of seasonal home maintenance protects your biggest investment and keeps life running smoothly through the cold months.

👉 If you’re thinking of selling in the near future, a well-maintained home can also mean a higher selling price and fewer surprises during buyer inspections.

Need personalized advice on preparing your home for the market? Get your free Home Valuation Report or sign up for a free seller consultation.

You can also download this as a handy PDF checklist right here:

Home Maintenance Checklist Download

Thinking about becoming a homeowner? It’s a big milestone—and with some smart planning, it’s totally achievable. Whether you're aiming to buy soon or just starting to explore, these steps will set you on the right path.

1. Assess Your Financial Health

Take a close look at your income, savings, debts, and expenses. Knowing where you stand financially will help you set realistic goals and timelines.

2. Check Your Credit Score

Your credit score affects your mortgage approval and interest rate. Review your report, correct any errors, and work on improving your score if needed.

3. Start Saving for a Down Payment

Aim for at least 5% of the purchase price, though more can help lower your mortgage costs. Also budget for closing costs, which typically range from 1.5% to 2.5% of the purchase price.

4. Create a Realistic Budget

Factor in more than just the mortgage—think about property taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance. A solid budget helps ensure you’ll be financially comfortable in your new home.

5. Get Pre-Approved

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage shows sellers you're serious and gives you a clear picture of your buying power before you start house hunting.

6. Explore First-Time Buyer Programs

There are government programs that offer tax breaks, rebates, or down payment support. I can help you find the ones that apply to your situation.

7. Connect With a Local REALTOR®

Working with someone who understands the local market (like me!) gives you a big advantage. I’ll guide you through the process and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Ready to take the first step toward homeownership in Spruce Grove, Edmonton, or nearby communities?

Let’s talk about your goals and how to make them a reality. Contact me today to get started.

Get Started Today

Selling your home isn’t just about putting a sign on the lawn and waiting for offers. Especially in Spruce Grove’s competitive market, the right preparation before you list can mean the difference between a quick, top-dollar sale and weeks of frustration.

Here are five key things to do before listing your home — steps I walk my clients through during our free, no-pressure Seller Strategy Session.

1. Get a Realistic Home Value Estimate

Before anything else, it’s important to know what your home is worth in today’s market — not based on guesswork or an outdated online estimate. A detailed market evaluation will show what buyers are actually paying for homes like yours right now in Spruce Grove.

💡 I offer this as a free service, with no obligation.

2. Tackle the Small Stuff That Makes a Big Impact

Buyers notice everything. Fixing minor issues like leaky faucets, loose door handles, or scuffed walls can improve your home's perceived value. I’ll even provide a personalized checklist and a free staging consultation to help your home shine.

3. Choose Your Timing Wisely

Timing can influence your sale price and your stress levels. While spring is traditionally hot, other times of year can work just as well depending on your goals, your neighbourhood, and current inventory. We’ll build your strategy around your ideal timeline.

4. Avoid the Price-High-Then-Chase-Down Trap

Overpricing is the #1 mistake I see. It sounds tempting to “test the market,” but it often leads to price reductions and wasted time. I’ll give you honest, data-backed advice so you can attract the right buyers from day one.

5. Plan Your Next Move Now

Selling is just one side of the equation. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing or relocating, I’ll help you line up your next home so the transition is smooth and stress-free.

📍 Ready to Talk Strategy?

If you’re even thinking about selling your Spruce Grove home in the next 6-12 months, I’d love to offer you a free Seller Strategy Session. There’s no pressure, no commitment — just expert advice tailored to your goals.

👉 Book a free Seller Strategy Session now

Are you thinking about buying your first home in Edmonton or the surrounding area? Becoming a homeowner is an exciting milestone — but it takes careful planning to get there. If you’re wondering how to start preparing for home ownership, this guide will walk you through the key steps to take.

1. Understand Your Financial Situation

Before you start looking at homes, take a close look at your finances.

• Check your credit score: A higher score can help you secure better mortgage rates.

• Pay down debt: Reducing credit card balances or loans will improve your debt-to-income ratio.

• Save for a down payment: In Canada, most buyers need at least 5% down, but 20% will help you avoid mortgage insurance.

2. Create a Realistic Budget

It’s important to know how much house you can afford — not just what the bank will approve.
Consider:

• Mortgage payments

• Property taxes

• Condo fees (if applicable)

• Home insurance

• Utilities and maintenance costs

3. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Mortgage pre-approval helps you:

• Understand your price range

• Strengthen your offers

• Show sellers you’re a serious buyer

Work with a trusted mortgage broker or lender who will help you explore your options and lock in a competitive rate.

4. Start Learning About the Market

The Edmonton real estate market changes throughout the year.
Research:

• Neighbourhoods that fit your lifestyle

• Current home prices and trends

• Types of homes available (single-family, duplex, condo, etc.)

Tip: The sooner you start learning, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to make a decision.

5. Partner With a Trusted Local Realtor

This is one of the most important steps. Working with an experienced Realtor helps you:

• Navigate the process from start to finish

• Access expert market insights

• Avoid costly mistakes

• Negotiate the best terms

If you’re thinking about buying a home in Edmonton or the surrounding area, I’d be happy to help. As a full-time, experienced Realtor® with MaxWell Challenge Realty, I guide buyers through every step — from first showing to keys in hand.

6. Stay Organized and Patient

Buying a home takes time. Stay organized with:

• A checklist of what you need to do

• Regular check-ins with your Realtor and mortgage professional

• A willingness to be flexible as you search

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’re preparing for home ownership in Edmonton, let’s connect. I’ll answer your questions, help you create a personalized plan, and support you every step of the way.
👉 Contact Jason Hafso – Your Edmonton & Area Real Estate Expert