Opening question: What are five essential winter home maintenance tips you should act on now to protect your investment this winter season?

Snippet answer:
As a homeowner in Puget Sound area, taking five focused maintenance steps this winter can help you avoid costly damage down the road and ensure your home stays in top condition.

1. Inspect & clear your gutters and roof

In our region, winter means heavy rain, alternating freeze‐thaw cycles, and the risk of ice dams. Start by clearing leaves and debris out of your gutters so water can drain properly.
Next, walk your roof edge (or hire someone) to look for missing/misaligned shingles, sagging gutters, or signs of water intrusion. A well‑functioning roof prevents moisture damage and is one of the strongest defenses for your home’s value.

2. Seal windows, doors and exterior gaps

Even though our winters in western Washington may be milder than deep‑freeze climates, the mix of wind, rain and damp air means your home still loses heat and gains moisture through unsound seals. One simple step: check weather‑stripping around doors and windows, and apply caulk where you find gaps.
Also consider checking crawl spaces, attic hatches and vent penetrations for drafts and sealing those up. This helps with energy efficiency and prevents moisture build‑up.

3. Protect plumbing & outdoor faucets

Winterizing your plumbing is a smart move that can save you thousands in repair costs. Cover outdoor spigots, disconnect and drain hoses, and shut off exterior water supplies if you have them.
Insulate exposed interior pipes, especially in unheated areas like garages, crawlspaces or attics, to reduce the risk of freezing or bursting.

4. Service your heating system and check ventilation

Before the cold fully sets in, schedule tune‑up or inspection of your furnace, heat pump, or other heating system. A well‑maintained system runs confidently and efficiently.
Also evaluate attic insulation and ventilation to avoid the “warm attic, cold roof” scenario that leads to ice dams. A properly ventilated attic helps your home breathe and prevents moisture damage.

5. Maintain landscaping & exterior risk zones

Winter storms bring down branches, saturate soils and place stress on exterior surfaces. Walk your property and trim back any dead or over‑extending branches near the roof, siding or power lines.
Also check around foundation vents, downspouts and siding for signs of deterioration. A smart exterior check keeps your home in strong condition and supports its long‑term marketability.

Final takeaway

By tackling these five areas: gutters/roof, sealing, plumbing, heating/ventilation, and exterior risks, you’ll help keep your home in great shape all winter long. This isn’t just upkeep for now; it’s protecting your investment so when spring arrives (and you’re ready to sell or refinance) your home stands strong in the market.

Call to Action

If you’d like help prioritizing winter maintenance, a local referral for trusted contractors, or just want to explore how your home’s condition links to its resale value, I’m here for you. Reach out anytime, I'm Shu- your local area Realtor, and let's make sure your home is ready, comfortable, and market‐smart this season.