Aside from planting those plum trees and getting new landscape, your fall season home projects should be focused on home maintenance and repairs that have serious pay off potential.
"A home that is maintained, just like a car, will last longer and perform better," says Keith Thompson, a real estate broker with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolinas Realty in Charlotte, NC.
Here are 5 fall home projects with high return of investment (ROI) according to Trulia:
Check that HVAC
A well serviced HVAC can reap you serious ROI when it's time to sell. "Having the major systems in the home serviced and inspected on a regular basis can save the homeowner money down the road if a minor problem is found and corrected before it becomes something bigger," says Keith.
Holding records of the HVAC maintenance while you lived in the home is a good tool when it comes to price negotiation.
A roof over your head goes a long way
A roof that perfectly serves its purpose is very important; that means no leaks, no cracks, and no gutter problem. "When everything has been dry for so long, surfaces such as roofs and seams start to crack and break down, just like windshield wipers on your car," explains Heather Witt Leikin, a real estate agent with Partners Trust Real Estate Brokerage & Acquisitions in Los Angeles.
"You might not notice the problems until you are in a major storm and you start to get water intrusion. These are all things you really should start checking on now. Doing so saves you money from having problems with leaks in the house that lead to damage to interiors and foundations and eventually mold, which lower the value of your house."
Watch your windows
Attract potential buyers by getting new windows that will keep everybody toasty as the weather begins to get colder. Plus, they will look at it as a good deal since they didn't have to shed money and do the addition themselves.
"As we head into the cold season, it might be time to think about that window upgrade," says Leikin. "Have you been putting off replacing your drafty single-pane windows? Replacing them now will help keep the heat in for the winter, ensuring that you are not only more comfortable, but you are not paying to heat the outdoors."
Look out for water
Water is one of every home's worst nightmares. The number of problems - flood, leaks, damp, mold - that could root from it is going to need expensive repairs.
"Water is always an issue. It can cause mold, attract termites, and turn into all sorts of nightmares for homeowners," he explains. Also, "Check your lot's grading. By maintaining a proper grading slope, you're ensuring that the grading is taking water away from foundation walls."
Drain your drain
It is important to winterize your irrigation during fall so you avoid problems of freezing and bursting when the weather gets worse. "If it's not done right in the fall, it can be a serious problem come later winter," says Udy.
