9 Things to do to Prepare for Fall

Whether you're preparing a home for sale, holidays, or just the cold winter months, here's your punch list!

9 Things to do to get your Home ready for Fall
Consider taking some time now to prepare and you won't be caught off guard when you have unexpected guests or find yourself working outdoors during the colder Oklahoma months.

1.) The Yard/Garden:

•· Prepare your lawns and gardens now for below-freezing temperatures. Pull weeds, seed and fertilize the lawn, and plant any spring-blooming bulbs. In areas where the ground is likely to freeze, you should consider mulching flower beds. The mulch will help to insulate the roots, protecting them when the weather gets cold. Potted plants and container gardens should be moved indoors or you can protect them outdoors by wrapping them in burlap. Cover or wrap outdoor faucets.

2.) The Patio:

•· Clean outdoor patio furniture and equipment with mild soap and water. If possible, bring them indoors for the winter. If you don't have the storage space, wrap them tightly with a tarp or other cover that will protect them from harsh weather and the damaging rays of the sun.

3.) Storage Areas:

•· Store outdoor fun and camping gear in the back (since they won't be needed again until next year) and move the fall sporting (footballs, etc) and yard equipment (rakes & leaf blowers) to the more accessible areas of the storage space. This way you won't have to fight with unnecessary items when you're getting ready to run off to football practice or to rake leaves.

4.) Entry Areas:

•· In the cooler temperatures you'll need warmer jackets and heavier shoes. Don't let these items clutter up the entryway. Organize a space near the doorway to store them. If you don't have a coat closet nearby, consider hanging coat hooks and setting out baskets for shoes, scarves, hats & gloves.

5.) Clothes Closets:

•· Go through your family's closets. Store summer dresses and tops to make room for fall wardrobes. Make sure school clothes are organized and ready for the children to grab on mornings when they're hurrying to school.

6.) In the Kitchen:

•· Things can get pretty hectic during the school weeks. Be sure to stock the cabinets and pantries with healthy afternoon snacks and ingredients for quick & easy meals so that you can quickly make dinners that are good for your family.

7.) In the Living Room:

•· Give the living room a quick mini-makeover for fall with just a few simple changes. Pillows, throws and slipcovers in rich fall fabrics or colors are easy ways to give it a new look. Consider an arrangement of autumn flowers to bring the mood of the seasonal changes indoors.

8.) In the Bedrooms:

•· Falling temperatures also mean cool autumn nights. It's time to pull out the heavier blankets that you stored away in the spring. Give your bed a new seasonal look with a throw at the end of the bed in an autumnal color or rich fabric.

9.) In the Bathrooms:

•· As everyone is rushing to get to school or work, the bathroom becomes one of the busiest rooms in the house. Streamline the process and avoid headaches by assigning everyone a shelf, drawer, or other storage spot where they can keep their morning essentials. No more hunting around for someone's hairbrush. Everything they need is in their assigned place and easy to reach.

Get more tips like these on The VIP Team website.

Natalie Flaming
Realtor - Broker Associate
The VIP Team
Metro First Realty
405.412.5452
Natalie@TheVIPofOKC.com
www.TheVIPofOKC.com