The beautiful Autumn season is practically here! Maybe it’s sad to see the summer go, but at the same time, there’s going to be so much to see and do: pumpkin festivals, apple picking, fall hiking, DIY crafts, corn mazes, costume contests, scavenger hunts, or just resting at home making chilli and sipping hot chocolate; this is one “to-do” list we can really stand behind!
If you’re a homeowner, decorating might be high on your list of priorities. It could be to attract the attention of potential buyers if you have decided to sell. Or it could be so passersby do a double take and gasp in awe every time they see your house. If you love this time of year as much as we do, keep reading for more ideas on getting your home all decked out for fall!
If you decide to sell, an accurate listing price is the foundation. Find out how much your house is worth by scheduling a complimentary home evaluation.
Lay the Foundation
Before you ice the cake, you must first bake the cake, and when it comes to home decor, the same principle applies. The cool weather makes it the perfect time to take care of any overdue maintenance projects that you may have been procrastinating on.
Breaking down a list of indoor and outdoor tasks gives you a solid foundation to create a beautiful and comfortable ambiance!
Outdoor Checklist
- Check exterior finish for signs of deterioration, including peeling paint, loose siding, and cracks.
- Check caulking around all windows and doors for air and water leaks.
- Add new seed to your lawn.
- Inspect the fireplace and any chimney dampers and clean them if necessary.
- Clean lint from your clothes dryer vent.
- Winterize any fragile outdoor planters and shrubs.
- Remove leaves and debris from the lawn.
- Check eavestroughs and downspouts to make sure they are not blocked.
- Drain and shut off all exterior water faucets and sprinkler systems.
- Store away any garden tools in the garage or a shed.
- Stock up on salt so you’re prepared for an early snowfall.
Are you designing your home for maximum impact on the market? The posts below can help you set the stage for a successful outcome:
- Why Sell Your Home With The Peggy Hill Team
- How Perfect Does a House Have to Be Before Selling?
- Preparing To Sell Your Home
Indoor Checklist
- Check the basement, attic and crawlspaces for any signs of leaks or moisture.
- Test all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and replace their batteries.
- Replace furnace filters.
- Check weatherstripping for signs of damage or wear and tear.
- Clean your humidifier and check for proper humidity levels.
- Inspect floor drains, keep them clean, and ensure the trap is filled with water to prevent sewer gases and unpleasant odours from creeping in.
Add Some Seasonal Style and Flair
There are so many special occasions just around the corner that we are all looking forward to celebrating! Decorating for the season goes a long way to creating a cozy, welcoming environment. Here are a few quick and simple tips to elevate your home style:
- Sprinkle a few colourful gourds on your front steps and porch.
- Add some solar lights to illuminate your walkways.
- Hang an all-season wreath outside your front door.
- Inside, have a dedicated area for coats, boots, hats and gloves.
- Place some scented candles throughout your home. If there are pets or young children, you can swap these out for battery-powered lights instead.
- Funny and clever fridge magnets and dishtowels are great conversation starters!
- Lay out some colourful pillows and cozy throws on your sofa and chairs.
- A vase with dried or leafy branches is a low-maintenance way to “bring the outdoors in.” You might even decide to anchor it with attractive ceramics and pinecones. Talk about a picture-perfect scene just in time for autumn!
Looking for the perfect place to buy a new home, either for the first time or after yours sells? The posts below will give you food for thought:
- A Look at Barrie’s Top Neighbourhoods: Which One Is Right for You
- The Joy of Living in Horseshoe Valley
Going All In for Fall
Do you have a real passion for fall and a little more time to transform your home inside and out? Focus on layers and textures to create a truly multi-sensual oasis right inside your home!
- Choose one design theme as a focal point of all of your designs. This creates a cohesive look while still allowing for maximum creativity! A little of everything can work, as long as there’s some theme to hold it all together.
- Spruce up your living room with decor that exudes warmth. If there’s a fireplace, the mantel is the perfect spot to display fall-inspired signs and gourds.
- Invest in some seasonal tableware for the kitchen. Thrift stores are great for this. You can find interesting and unusual items without breaking the bank!
- Keep your eye out for sales on outdoor lights and displays. These set the ambiance before you walk in the door!
If you’re preparing your home for a fall sale, be sure to consult with your real estate agent and keep them in the loop. They know what is working to attract buyers today, and will help you generate maximum interest in your home.
When decorating for your own enjoyment, there are few limits or rules. The trick is to invest in quality pieces and timeless decor and create a setting to admire for years to come!
Thinking of listing your home in Barrie or Simcoe County? Get in touch with The Peggy Hill Team today at (705)-739-4455 or email info@peggyhill.com.
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