Question: What should you do now to get your home ready for the colder months and show up strong when the market calls?

Quick answer: A timely round of fall/winter maintenance will keep your home cozy, efficient, and market-ready—and help you avoid costly surprises down the road.

Living around the Kansas City/Leavenworth region means your home sees a mix of conditions: cold snaps, ice, wind, fluctuating temperatures, and even early snow. Tackling the right prep now means your house stays comfortable, efficient, and in top shape whether you’re staying put or preparing to list. Local professionals highlight these big risks: drafts around windows & doors, frozen pipes, clogged gutters leading to ice dams, and heating systems working overtime.

Here are key areas to tackle for your home around Fort Leavenworth and Kansas City.

1. Weather-sealing + insulation

• Inspect around windows and doors for drafts; apply sealant or replace weather-stripping.

• Check attic/crawlspace insulation and make sure vents are clear to reduce heat loss.

• Consider adding insulation to exposed pipes or basements to reduce freeze risk.

2. Heating & HVAC systems

• Change furnace filter and ensure your heating system is serviced before full cold sets in.

• Consider a programmable thermostat to optimize comfort and energy use during the season.

3. Gutters, roof, drainage

• Clean gutters and downspouts so melt or ice doesn’t back up into your roof or walls.

• Inspect roof for missing or loose shingles, especially after summer storms. Address weak areas now.

• Make sure soil near your foundation slopes away so water can’t pool and freeze near the base.

4. Interior checks & safety

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries. (Winter = more indoor time, more risk.)

• Examine exposed plumbing: insulate pipes, open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to allow warmer air in.

• Switch ceiling fans to run clockwise (if applicable) to push warm air down. Small move, but helpful.

5. Outdoor prep & storage

• Move or cover patio furniture, store hoses, winterize sprinkler systems or outdoor spigots.

• Trim tree branches that hang over your home—ice and snow can bring them down.

If you invest a little time now in fall/winter prep, your home will reward you with lower risks, better energy efficiency, and a smoother path whether you stay or sell. A well-maintained home speaks volumes for comfort and market appeal.

Want a printable version of this checklist to keep by your fridge or share? Download the free Fall & Winter Home Maintenance Checklist today and make sure your home is winter ready.

I’m Katie Payne, REALTOR® serving Leavenworth, Platte, Wyandotte and Johnson counties. When you’re ready to buy, sell or just need a referral for a trusted home-inspector, reach out—I’m here to help.