I know...it's still hot outside! 🥵 But cooler weather is right around the corner—I promise! 😂

As much as we're all enjoying summer, now is actually the perfect time to prepare your home for the cooler months ahead. Spending a little time on maintenance now can help prevent costly repairs later and keep your home running efficiently all fall and winter.

Here are my top five things every Knoxville homeowner should check before the seasons change.

🍂 1. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up

Your heating and cooling system has worked overtime during these hot summer months.

A professional tune-up can:

• Improve efficiency
• Help lower energy bills
• Catch small issues before they become expensive repairs
• Ensure your heat is ready when those first chilly mornings arrive

🐭 2. Seal Any Entry Points

As temperatures begin to cool, mice and other unwanted critters start looking for a warm place to spend the winter.

Trust me on this one...

Ask me how I know! 😂

Take a few minutes to inspect around doors, windows, utility lines, vents, and your foundation. A little caulk or weather stripping now can save you from dealing with unwanted house guests later.

🏡 3. Check Your Crawl Space

This isn't exactly the most glamorous home maintenance task...but it's one of the most important.

If your home has a crawl space:

✔ Make sure vents are clear.
✔ Look for standing water from summer storms.
✔ Watch for moisture or signs of mold.

As a Realtor, I've seen more crawl space issues during home inspections this year than I can remember.

Catching a problem early is always easier (and less expensive) than waiting until it becomes a major repair.

🌳 4. Trim Trees & Get Ready for Falling Leaves

Before fall storms arrive, trim any dead or weak tree limbs that could damage your home.

And yes...those leaves will be falling before we know it! 🍁

Keeping your yard maintained now can also help prevent clogged gutters later in the season.

🚰 5. Disconnect Garden Hoses

Don't forget to disconnect your garden hoses and install covers on your outdoor hose bibs before freezing temperatures arrive.

This simple task can help prevent frozen pipes and costly plumbing repairs when winter weather rolls in.

⭐ Bonus Tip: Schedule a Chimney Inspection

If your home has a fireplace, now is a great time to have your chimney inspected and cleaned before cozy season begins.

Nothing beats a warm fire on a chilly East Tennessee evening—but make sure it's safe before lighting that first fire.

A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way

Owning a home comes with responsibilities, but a little preventative maintenance each season can save you thousands of dollars in repairs down the road.

Whether you're planning to stay in your home for years or thinking about selling in the future, keeping your home well maintained is one of the best investments you can make.

And if you're ever wondering what buyers notice most during a home inspection, I'd be happy to share my experience after nearly two decades in East Tennessee real estate.

Happy Fall (almost)! 🍂

Angie Cody
My Expertise. Your Profit.