As your local Kamloops mortgage broker, I thought it would be a great time to remind you to prepare your home for the colder weather. A few things can make a big difference and save you time and money later.

Get your mind in the gutters

Ensure those gutters are checked and cleaned, and don’t forget the downspouts.

Weatherstripping

Also, caulking should be used to plug gaps and cracks around windows and doors. If a door between your house and garage is present, it should also be made to close completely.

Clean

Clean your patio furniture before you store it away.  You’ll be happy you did it in the spring. 

Drain

Drain and store garden hoses.

Replace

Replace your furnace filters if you haven’t done so in the last 3 months.

A furnace physical

A furnace physical is necessary; have a professional inspect your heating system. For appliance maintenance and safety tips, check out FortisBC’s website.

To keep the fires burning

Check the chimneys for obstructions, such as nests. Also, consider having the wood-burning fireplace, stove flues, and chimneys professionally inspected and swept.

Think Safety

Test smoke and carbon monoxide monitors, and rid your home of any fire hazards.

See you next year

Cover the outside of the air-conditioning unit and shut off the power. Winterize your landscaping.

And reduce stress!

Fall is a great time to review your finances and start thinking about a budget for your holiday spending. If you have a lot of high-interest debt, this may be a great time to contact a mortgage broker to see if you qualify to move that debt into a lower rate by utilizing the equity in your home. That simple step can boost your cash flow and save thousands in interest. Making fewer debt payments each month is certainly a stress reliever!

Let’s talk today about whether your current debt levels are impacting your stress levels. As a mortgage specialist, I can help you find a solution that works for you.