Top Fall Home Maintenance Projects to Protect Your Home’s Value

Fall in the Twin Cities may still feel like summer this year, but cooler weather is right around the corner. That makes now the perfect time to tackle maintenance projects that protect your home, keep it comfortable, and save you money in the long run.

Some of these tasks may not seem urgent, but when ignored, they often turn into costly repairs — and major sticking points when it comes time to sell. Here are the top fall projects to put on your list:

1. Roof & Gutters

Your roof is one of the first things buyers and inspectors look at. A few missing shingles or clogged gutters might not seem like a big deal, but they can lead to water damage, leaks, or ice dams over the winter. Those issues can quickly turn into thousands of dollars in repairs.

What to do:

• Clean gutters and downspouts
  
• Check for missing or damaged shingles (or hire a professional)
  
• Look for early signs of leaks in the attic or ceilings
  

Taking care of small issues now helps extend the life of your roof and prevents bigger problems later.

2. HVAC System

When temps drop, your furnace works overtime. If it hasn’t been serviced, you could be looking at a breakdown just when you need it most. Not only is that inconvenient and more costly, but a poorly maintained HVAC system can shorten its lifespan and scare off potential buyers.

What to do:

• Schedule a professional furnace tune-up
  
• Replace filters throughout the winter
  
• Test your thermostat
  

A little preventative care can extend the life of your system and keep your energy bills in check.

3. Foundation & Drainage

Poor drainage is one of the most expensive issues a homeowner can face. Water pooling near your foundation can cause cracks, leaks, and even mold — all red flags during a buyer’s inspection.

What to do:

• Extend downspouts away from the house
  
• Make sure grading slopes away from the foundation
  
• Seal small foundation cracks before winter
  

It’s much easier to fix these problems now than after water damage has already occurred.

4. Windows & Doors

Drafty windows and doors aren’t just uncomfortable — they also increase energy bills and show buyers that a home hasn’t been maintained.

What to do:

• Replace worn-out weatherstripping
  
• Re-caulk around windows
  
• Consider upgrading storm doors if needed
  

These small steps improve comfort, energy efficiency, and overall appeal.

5. Chimney & Fireplace

If you have a fireplace, fall is the season to get it cleaned and inspected. Chimney problems can be pricey to fix and are almost always flagged in an inspection.

What to do:

• Schedule a chimney sweep and inspection
  
• Check that your damper opens and closes properly
  
• Stock up on seasoned firewood if you plan to use it this winter

Why It Matters

Tackling these projects now doesn’t just make your home more comfortable — it protects your investment. When it comes time to sell, buyers will pay more for a home that’s clearly been cared for. On the flip side, neglected maintenance often leads to lower offers or costly last-minute repairs during inspection negotiations.

👉 Thinking about selling in the next year? Let’s walk through a quick home maintenance review so you can decide which projects will have the biggest impact on your home’s value.