Before the Holiday Hustle: 8 Things NH Homeowners Should Do Now 🏡🍂

A little home maintenance now can save you a whole lot of headaches (and money!) later.

Can you believe we're already heading into November?

Before we know it, we'll be digging out the holiday decorations, planning family gatherings, and wondering where on earth we stored the snow shovels last spring.

But before the holiday hustle begins, there are a few things every New Hampshire homeowner should consider checking off their to-do list.

Living in the Lakes Region means we get to enjoy some pretty beautiful seasons, but let's face it—New England winters aren't always kind to our homes!

The good news? A little preparation now can help you avoid expensive surprises when temperatures drop.

Here are eight things I'd recommend tackling before the holidays arrive.

1. Give Your Heating System Some Attention 🔥

Nobody wants to wake up to a freezing house in the middle of December, especially when family is visiting!

If you haven't already, now is a great time to schedule your annual heating system maintenance.

A few things worth checking:

-Replace or clean furnace filters.
-Schedule a professional heating system inspection.
-Make sure heating vents and baseboards aren't blocked.
-Check your thermostat and replace batteries if needed.
-If you have a fireplace or wood stove, have your chimney inspected and cleaned as needed.

Money-saving tip: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, lowering your thermostat by 7–10 degrees for eight hours a day can save up to 10% annually on heating and cooling costs, depending on your heating system.

2. Clean Those Gutters Before Everything Freezes 🍁

I know, cleaning gutters isn't exactly anyone's favorite weekend activity.

But those beautiful fall leaves can create some not-so-beautiful problems when they clog your gutters.

Once freezing temperatures arrive, trapped water can contribute to ice dams, leaks, and damage to your home's exterior.

Before winter settles in:

-Remove leaves and debris from gutters.
-Check that downspouts are draining away from your foundation.
-Look for loose or damaged gutters.
-Inspect your roof from the ground for visible damage.

Local homeowner tip: Here in New Hampshire, ice dams can become a serious issue during our freeze-thaw cycles. Keeping gutters clear and addressing attic air leaks and insulation problems can help reduce your risk.

3. Check for Drafts Before Your Heating Bill Reminds You 💸

Have you ever walked past a window in January and felt like you were standing outside?

Those little drafts can add up!

Before the temperatures really drop, walk around your home and check for cold air coming through windows, doors, and other openings.

Some inexpensive fixes include:

-Adding weatherstripping around exterior doors.
-Replacing worn door sweeps.
-Caulking gaps around window frames where appropriate.
-Installing window insulation film.
-Checking attic access points for air leaks.
-You don't necessarily need to replace your windows to make your home more comfortable.

Sometimes a few small improvements can make a noticeable difference!

4. Prepare Your Plumbing for Freezing Temperatures 🚰

Frozen pipes are one of those homeowner headaches that nobody wants to deal with, especially during the holidays.

Take a little time now to protect your plumbing.

Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, shut off exterior water supplies where possible, and drain outdoor faucets.

If you have plumbing in unheated areas, such as crawl spaces or garages, make sure those pipes are properly protected.

And if you're heading away for the holidays, don't turn your heat completely off!

Helpful tip: Know where your main water shutoff valve is located. If a pipe ever bursts, you'll be glad you do.

5. Make Sure Your Home Is Ready for Holiday Guests 🏡

Whether you're hosting Thanksgiving dinner or having family stay for a few days, now is a great time to tackle those little household projects you've been putting off.

You know the ones.

That loose doorknob you've been meaning to fix since July? Now's your chance!

A few things to consider:

-Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
-Check handrails and stairway lighting.
-Fix loose cabinet hardware or door handles.
-Make sure entryways and walkways are well-lit.
-Stock up on basic household essentials.
-If you're expecting overnight guests, take a few minutes to check the guest room, too.

Fresh linens, an extra blanket, and a little space for their belongings go a long way toward making someone feel welcome.

6. Get Your Snow Removal Plan Together ❄️

If you've lived in New Hampshire for more than one winter, you already know how quickly the weather can change!

One day we're enjoying beautiful fall foliage, and the next we're wondering if the snowblower will start.

Before the first big storm:

-Test your snowblower and check its maintenance needs.
-Locate your snow shovels and ice melt.
-Arrange for plowing if needed.
-Mark driveway edges and obstacles before snow covers them.
-Check that exterior lights are working.
-If you own a rental property or have tenants, now is also a good time to review who's responsible for snow and ice removal.

A little communication ahead of time can prevent a lot of confusion later.

7. Give Your Kitchen Appliances a Little TLC 🍽️

Your kitchen is about to get a workout!

Between Thanksgiving dinner, holiday baking, and family gatherings, this is a good time to make sure everything is working properly.

Consider cleaning your oven, checking refrigerator door seals, and vacuuming refrigerator coils if your manufacturer's instructions recommend it.

Don't forget to check your dishwasher filter and garbage disposal, too!

One thing I always recommend: Avoid putting grease, oils, or large amounts of food scraps down your kitchen drain. A clogged sink during Thanksgiving dinner is definitely not on anyone's wish list.

8. Take a Quick Look at Your Home's Winter Emergency Supplies 🔦

Winter storms are just part of life here in the Lakes Region.

And while we can't control the weather, we can be a little more prepared for it.

Make sure you have:

-Flashlights and fresh batteries.
-A portable phone charger.
-Drinking water and nonperishable food.
-Extra blankets.
-Necessary medications and pet supplies.
-A safe backup heating plan, if applicable.
-If you have a generator, make sure it's properly maintained and ready to use. Always operate portable generators outdoors, well away from windows, doors, and vents.

Hopefully, you won't need any of these supplies, but it's a great feeling knowing you're prepared.

 
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way ❤️

Owning a home comes with plenty of responsibilities, and I know how easy it is for those little maintenance projects to get pushed aside when life gets busy.

But taking care of a few things now can help you enjoy the holiday season without worrying about unexpected home repairs.

And let's be honest, we'd all rather spend our money on holiday memories than emergency plumbing calls!

Whether you've owned your home for 20 years or just picked up your keys, I hope these tips help you head into winter feeling a little more prepared.

Thinking about making a move before the end of the year? Or maybe you're just curious what your home is worth in today's Lakes Region real estate market?

Give me a call! I'm always happy to answer questions, offer advice, or help you figure out your next steps.

No pressure, just helpful information.

Stay warm, and enjoy the season!

Crystal Bullerwell, Realtor®
Keller Williams Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty

66 NH Route 25, Meredith NH 03253
📍 Serving Laconia, Gilford, Meredith, Belmont, Sanbornton & the Lakes Region of NH
📱 (603) 393-8505
🌐 lakesregionhomesnh.com