5 Ways to Ensure a Home Is Winter-Ready

Shopping for a home in the winter means taking steps to ensure that your home is move-in ready. Who wants to spend weeks preparing a house when they could easily find a lovely home that is ready for the winter? These tasks are those you want to ensure are already done before you move in to your new piece of real estate.

1. Check that the heater is in prime working condition.

If you will be moving in for the winter, one of the first things you want to do is ensure that the house will be kept warm enough. The best way to do this is with a heating system that works. You do not want to move into your new house only to find that it does not even work. Check this out while you are still looking at houses.

2. Ensure that all filters are changed and ready to work efficiently.

A clogged filter can significantly impact the way your HVAC system works. If your filter is not cleaned or is broken, you could find yourself paying too much on your next bill. This is something you may want to check with the real estate agent about before you move in.

3. Seal doors and windows to prevent air leaks.

Even the best heating system is no match in efficiency when you are dealing with severe leakage via doors and windows. The best way to fight back against leaks is to seal off weak points. The sellers may ensure that the home is properly sealed before you buy the house, but you want to make sure that this is done before you take charge of the house and are expected to handle the costs.

4. Check that the air ducts are sealed.

Air ducts are also not as efficient when they are leaking air on the way to heating your home. It is wise to have your entire system checked by a heating and air conditioning professional who understands how heat loss can impact your home.

5. Insulate all water pipes.

Water pipes can freeze and burst -- even if they are simply the pipes outside irrigating the lawn. Pipes that have been properly cared for will be insulated in intensely cold weather.

Now that you have ensured your home is winter-ready, you are ready to buy that house and move in. Talk to a real estate agent in your area for more tips.


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