Winter is approaching. Owning a home in Ohio means getting familiar with all four seasons—and what each one requires to keep your property in top shape. Real estate isn’t just about buying and selling; it’s about maintaining value and keeping your investment in prime condition year-round. Let’s break down how you can turn seasonal upkeep into a smart strategy for maximizing value.
Winter: Protecting Your Investment from the Elements
Ohio winters are no joke. Snow, ice, freezing temps—it’s tough on a home. If you’re not properly prepared, winter can create costly problems that drag down your property value.
- Winterize Your Pipes and Exterior
A burst pipe in the middle of January? That’s a nightmare for your home and your wallet. Insulate pipes in any unheated areas, like basements and garages, and disconnect outdoor hoses. Sealing cracks around windows and doors is essential to keep the cold air out and reduce your heating bill. - Check the Roof and Gutters
Snow and ice accumulation can damage a roof faster than you might think. Have a professional inspect your roof before the season gets underway, and clean out the gutters to prevent ice dams that can lead to leaks. - Prepare Your Heating System
Get your HVAC checked out before the winter rush hits. Routine maintenance helps you avoid those emergency repairs and ensures your system is running efficiently—which translates to lower energy bills. Not to mention, a reliable heating system is a top priority for any buyer. - Enhance Curb Appeal with Simple Upgrades
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean curb appeal takes a back seat. Keep walkways and driveways clear of snow and ice. Consider adding a pop of color with hardy winter plants like evergreens or adding tasteful, energy-efficient outdoor lighting.
For more winter tips on protecting your home, go here.
Spring: Clean, Repair, and Refresh
Spring is the season to freshen up and fix any issues that winter left behind. Think of it as your home’s “tune-up” season—a few small investments now can prevent bigger issues down the line.
- Deep Clean and Declutter
A spring cleaning is more than just a tradition. It’s your chance to clear out the clutter, get organized, and make every inch of your home shine. Dust, scrub, and polish from floor to ceiling, especially if you’re planning to sell later in the year. - Inspect for Winter Damage
Ohio winters can leave behind cracked sidewalks, peeling paint, and other small damages. Do a thorough walk-around of your property and take care of minor repairs before they become bigger problems. A fresh coat of paint or a little concrete repair can do wonders for your home’s look—and value. - Landscaping 101: Start Strong
Curb appeal is a huge part of your home’s perceived value. Invest in some mulch, trim the bushes, and plant a few flowers to bring life back to your yard. Even simple lawn maintenance goes a long way; a well-kept yard makes your home look inviting. - Service the Air Conditioning
Ohio summers can get hot, so make sure your AC is running smoothly. Routine maintenance keeps your system efficient and helps you avoid costly breakdowns right when you need it most.
For more information on protecting your home in the spring, go here.
Summer: Maximize Curb Appeal and Outdoor Living
Summer is when your property’s exterior can truly shine. If you want to boost curb appeal and make your home the envy of the neighborhood, now’s the time to go all-in on landscaping and outdoor maintenance.
- Perfect the Lawn and Landscaping
A green, healthy lawn adds serious curb appeal. Keep up with regular mowing, edging, and watering, and don’t skip the fertilizer. For a bigger impact, consider planting perennials or adding a few shrubs and flowers to highlight walkways and entrances. - Outdoor Living Spaces
Patios, decks, and outdoor entertaining spaces are huge selling points, especially during Ohio’s warmer months. If you already have a deck, make sure it’s freshly stained and in good repair. For patios, power wash the surface to make it look brand new. Even adding some seating or a fire pit can turn a backyard into a prime entertaining spot that adds value. - Check the Roof and Exterior Paint
With the warmer weather, now’s a good time to get any exterior painting or repairs done. A fresh paint job is one of the highest-ROI updates you can make, especially if you’re considering selling in the near future. It gives your home an instant facelift and protects it against the elements. - Window and Door Seals
Inspect all windows and doors for leaks, which can lead to higher cooling bills. Summer heat can test your home’s insulation, and making sure everything is sealed tight saves on energy costs. Plus, energy efficiency is a big selling point with today’s buyers.
For more tips about summer, go here.
Fall: Prep for Winter and Keep the Value High
When fall hits, it’s time to get ready for the colder months. This season’s about prep work—getting your home in shape so it can handle winter like a champ.
- Gutter Maintenance
Fall leaves clogging up your gutters can lead to water damage, so make sure to clean them out regularly. Consider installing gutter guards if you’re tired of the hassle—buyers will see this as a low-maintenance feature that’s worth paying for. - Seal Cracks and Insulate
Take a good look at any gaps or cracks around your home’s windows, doors, and foundation. Sealing these now helps you avoid drafts and lowers your heating costs once winter arrives. Insulation upgrades are also a smart move, as energy efficiency is top of mind for many buyers. - Furnace Check-Up
Just like in winter, a functioning furnace is non-negotiable. Get your heating system serviced and replace the filter. A little maintenance now can save you from a costly repair when you need it most. - Exterior Lighting and Safety
As days get shorter, outdoor lighting becomes essential. Consider motion-sensor lights for added security and well-lit pathways to make your home inviting even on darker evenings. It’s a simple improvement that adds to curb appeal and safety—a big plus for prospective buyers.your home in the fall months, go here.
Real Estate Strategy: Maintenance is Money in the Bank
Here’s the big picture: consistent maintenance isn’t just about keeping your home looking good; it’s a strategy for preserving and building value. When you’re ready to sell, buyers are going to notice a well-kept property versus one that’s been neglected. Season-by-season upkeep signals to buyers that the home has been cared for and worth the investment.
In Central Ohio, the elements can take a toll, but by staying proactive, you’ll keep your property at the top of its game and maximize your return when it’s time to sell. Think of these seasonal projects as smart investments—they pay off in value, comfort, and peace of mind. Whether you’re living in your forever home or planning to sell soon, take these tips seriously and set yourself up for long-term success.
Kyle Alfriend has been active in real estate for over 35 years, assisting over 3,000 clients in buying, selling, and investing in real estate.
For more information on buying, selling, or investing, or for a personal consultation, contact Kyle Alfriend, (614) 395-1776, or info@AlfriendGroup.com Or go to our website, AlfriendGroup.com.