Happy Winter! It’s upon us now. For those of you who are not pre-planners, here’s a few to-dos to help you take best care of your home as we experience of Chicagoland cold season.

• Put up your outdoor equipment
• Lawn tools, riding mowers, tables, chairs, and lawn ornaments should be tucked safely away in the garage or basement, or at least a covered porch till Spring.
• Turn off your water outside and drain hoses
• Avoid the frozen pipe nightmare. Be sure your outdoor spigots are off and drain any hoses. If you have a sprinkler system, have it blown out by a pro.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Very important! Replace batteries if needed and do a quick test of each.

Do you leave for much for the Winter? Here’s a quick list to button up your home before you leave.

• Unplug electronics and unnecessary appliances 
• Clean out your fridge, sink traps and garbage disposal
• Turn down the heat, to around 50 degrees 
• Lower the temp on your water heater
• Shut off the water supply and open faucets to drain, then leave one faucet on at a low level for access air and water to drain
• Advise those companies and service-providers that you will be gone
• Enlist a neighbor or friend in case you have a need while away

I serve home buyers and sellers in Chicagoland. If you are looking for advice on buying or selling a home in Chicago proper or the suburbs this Winter, please keep me mind.