Sandee Smith: It’s not too early to prep for fall

Fall is just around the corner, so why not take advantage of our warmer temperatures and began preparing for fall? Not sure where to start? Here are seven tasks to get you started:

Check Your Heating and Air Conditioning System

If you did not already do it last spring, get your HVAC system professionally serviced to make sure it is good to go for fall and winter. Also, check heating vents to make sure they are not covered by furniture or carpet. Most importantly, be sure to change your air filter regularly, especially when outside air quality has been poor.

Repair Cracks

While the weather is still dry, caulk any cracks you find in the exterior trim and siding, and around the windows. Polyurethane is one of the better caulks because it is easier to use, can be painted over, and lasts longer than latex.

De-Clutter the Gutters

In order to allow for the rainwater and snow melt to flow properly, you need to thoroughly-clean gutters. Use a high-powered water hose to wash away what is left after removing any large pieces of debris.

Carefully Check the Roof

Cold temperatures combined with rain, ice, snow and wind can damage your roof and cause leaks inside the house as well. While you have the ladder out for the gutters, look for missing or loose roof shingles and fix any problem areas.

Clean the Chimney Before Lighting Up Your Fireplace

Dirty chimneys are responsible for thousands of home fires every year. Fireplace chimneys should be inspected at least once a year and cleaned, if needed. When hiring a chimney sweep, make sure he or she is certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA).

Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

Hundreds of people in the United States die every year from carbon monoxide poisoning by non-automotive consumer products. Many of these deaths can be prevented with proper maintenance of detectors.

Remove Outside Clutter

Go through your yard and garage and donate or toss any items you do not want to keep. Removing clutter alleviates possible problems that often occur in winter months such as rodents, moisture rot, and mold.

According to real estate professionals, a house can loose 10 percent or more of its value if routine maintenance is neglected. Stay ahead of maintenance issues before they become serious repair problems.

For homeowner information or to find a licensed real estate professional, contact the Sierra Nevada Realtors at 775-885-7200 or www.snar.org. The Sierra Nevada Realtors is the voice of real estate in Carson City and the surrounding areas. They are committed to building better communities throughout the region, and participating in the political process to protect the industry as well as private property rights.

Sandee Smith is president of the Sierra Nevada Association of Realtors and a realtor with Charles Kitchen Realty in Carson City. With more than 25 years of experience in sales, lending and home staging, her earned designations include Certified Residential Specialist, Seniors Real Estate Specialist, Accredited Buyer’s Representative, and Certified Negotiating Expert. She welcomes real estate questions and can be reached at 775-250-6672 or RealtorSandee@yahoo.com.