Shorter evenings and cooler mornings sneak up on the Twin Cities before anyone realizes it. As you review Brainerd homes for sale or Coon Rapids homes for sale, a well-maintained yard is one of the first features buyers notice early in the season.

Why Early Prep Pays Off

Minnesota's seasons are fickle, and what may start as chilly fall mornings can turn into punishing winter weather. Gutter maintenance, deck inspections, and drainage clearances are a few of the jobs that benefit immensely from early fall attention. It's less expensive to protect your home's exterior against the elements than it is to repair winter weather damage.

A blocked downspout can allow water to collect near the foundation instead of directing it safely away from the house. Clearing leaves and other debris during routine fall maintenance can help keep water moving where it should.

Gutters, Downspouts, and Drainage

Water management is one of the most overlooked tasks on the fall maintenance schedule. 

• Clear gutters of debris as leaves begin to fall
• Extend downspouts at least 4 feet from the foundation
• Check that grading slopes away from the house and doesn't direct water toward it
• Inspect window wells for standing water

Lawn and Landscape Closeout

Lawn care is an investment that pays off in late summer, and fall care is all about setting the stage for next year's growth. Aeration, fertilizer, and mowing height adjustments all contribute to a healthy lawn that will thrive in the coming seasons. Larger parcels of land should also see perennial plants cut back and garden beds mulched before the ground freezes.

Decks, Patios, and Outdoor Structures

Wood decks see the brunt of the summer heat and humidity in Minnesota, and should be inspected for soft spots and loose railings. Apply a water-sealing solution if it has been more than two years since the last treatment.

Stone patios and paver walkways should also be checked for stability. Taking a few minutes to check that individual pavers aren't loose can help prevent a larger repair job later. 

Outdoor Furniture and Equipment

Tuck outdoor cushions, umbrellas, and lightweight furniture inside as the evenings cool.

• Drain and coil hoses before regular use ends
• Test exterior spigots and note any that require service
• Check that snow blowers and other equipment are in good working order

A Word About Curb Appeal

Buyers touring homes early in the season may still form snap judgments about a property based on their drive up to the house. Keeping the yard tidy and the driveway clear shows that a home has been well cared for, even in the early fall.

Fall Home Prep Questions Answered

When should I clean my gutters in the fall in Minnesota?

Most experts advise a first cleaning when leaf fall begins, with a second cleaning later in the season to clear the majority of the accumulated debris. It's always best to stay ahead of gutter cleaning, rather than behind.

Does fall lawn care have any bearing on spring grass growth?

Dense root systems are the secret to a healthy, attractive lawn. The root systems of cool-season grasses actually continue to grow throughout fall, and will benefit immensely from fall fertilization. Come spring, the improved root mass will result in a greener lawn with fewer bare patches.

Is it too early to think about winterization?

It's always a good time to think about winterization, and the earlier the better. Taking time in early fall to prepare will always be less time-consuming than trying to rush to complete the jobs later in the year.

Getting Ready for What's Next

Whether you're planning to settle into a new home or sell before the market changes, early fall preparation will make life easier for you and your home. Call today to discuss your needs.