It seems that before we even had the opportunity to savour our pumpkin spice lattes or go for a crisp Fall walk, we find ourselves in winter! And this change of season is not only felt by each and every one of us, but our homes as well!
 

If you have not done so already, this is a great time to complete some work around the exterior of your home so it too can brave the winter. Water is enemy number one for your home. This is the perfect time to go around the exterior of your home to drain all the hose bibs. As we know, once water freezes, it expands, and the last thing you need is for the plumbing to be full of water and for it to freeze and cause a leak from the seal when it thaws. This is also a great time to secure or remove any loose items around the exterior of your home, such as hanging baskets, patio furniture, and so on before the ghastly winds start.

You have worked hard on your grass, so why not protect it from the torture of shoveling? I highly suggest getting snow stakes and outlining the walkways and driveway of your home, so you have an exact marker as to where you stop shoveling when things are covered with a blanket of snow. You should also consider covering your outdoor plants and evergreens with burlap, as this will protect them from damage caused by snow, salt, frost, and ice.

Now that the maintenance part is covered, let us dive into some outdoor aesthetic. Nothing adds greater curb appeal in the winter than winter planters! If you do not have the bandwidth with everything else that is going on in your life to create outdoor planters then please consider potted mums. These will add colour and life to the exterior of your home for you and your neighbours to enjoy.

Lastly, before we have lasting heavy snow and ice, this might be a great time to hang your Christmas lights. You will have greater luck with securing the lights because you will not be brushing snow off to hang them. Be cautious and take your time and always ensure you have a spotter/helper.

Stay cozy and safe as our Canadian winter sets in, and remember to protect your home!

--Rizwan Malik

@rizwanmalik

Photo: Shannon Willis

Rizwan Malik, Senior Vice President of Sales at Sotheby's International Realty Canada; Real Estate Expert Cityline; Co-Star - HGTV Hot Market

Rizwan Malik is a qualified fount of knowledge regarding the Canadian real estate market. Rizwan keeps his finger on the pulse of today’s evolving markets. He breaks down its continuing complexities into easy-to-understand terms for all home buyers.