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Home Maintenance | Madison WI Area Top Real Estate Team Blog

Saturday, November 1, 2025   /   by Ryan Huemmer

November Home Maintenance Checklist

Winterize Your Plumbing
Insulate exposed pipes in basements, garages, and crawl spaces to prevent freezing.
Disconnect and drain garden hoses, and shut off outdoor faucets if possible.
Inspect Your Heating System
Schedule a furnace or boiler tune-up.
Replace filters and test your thermostat to ensure your system runs efficiently.
Check Your Fireplace and Chimney
Have chimneys professionally cleaned if you plan to use your fireplace.
Inspect for cracks or creosote buildup.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Remove leaves, debris, and ice dams to prevent water damage and foundation issues.
Ensure downspouts direct water away from your home.
Service Snow Removal Equipment
Test snow blowers, shovels, and ice melt supplies.
Stock up on winter essentials like salt or sand.
The Huemmer Home Team
LPT Realty
608-709-9440
theteam@thhtrealty.com
  ...

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Tuesday, October 28, 2025   /   by Ryan Huemmer

Home Improvement vs. Home Maintenance: What Really Adds Value Before You Sell

When you’re preparing to sell your home, it’s natural to wonder what projects will help you get top dollar, which might just drain your wallet. While both home improvement and home maintenance matter, they serve different purposes in protecting and increasing your home’s value. Knowing the difference and which investments make the biggest impact in Southern Wisconsin’s real estate market can be the key to a faster, more profitable sale.
Understanding the Difference
Home improvement refers to upgrades or enhancements that improve your home’s appearance, comfort, or functionality beyond its original condition. Think of it as elevating your home’s appeal, updating a dated kitchen, adding new flooring, or enhancing curb appeal with fresh landscaping. These projects often attract more buyers and can help your home stand out in a competitive market.
Home maintenance, on the other hand, involves the repairs and upkeep needed to preserve your home’s ...

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Wednesday, October 1, 2025   /   by Ryan Huemmer

October Home Maintenance Checklist

Essential October Home Maintenance for Wisconsin Homeowners
As October settles over Wisconsin, homeowners face a critical window to prepare their properties for the harsh winter months ahead. The Huemmer Home Team recommends prioritizing your furnace inspection and servicing this month, as heating systems that have sat idle through summer need professional attention to ensure safe, efficient operation when temperatures plummet. This preventive maintenance not only avoids mid-winter breakdowns but can also reduce energy costs throughout the heating season.
Your gutters and downspouts require thorough cleaning before leaf fall peaks and winter weather arrives. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, water damage to your roof and siding, and foundation problems as melting snow seeks alternative drainage paths. While you're addressing your gutter system, inspect your roof for missing, damaged, or lifted shingles that could allow moisture penetration during Wisconsin's freeze-thaw cycle; ...

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Monday, September 1, 2025   /   by Ryan Huemmer

September Home Maintenance Checklist

Specific September Home Maintenance Checklist for Wisconsin Homeowners!
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent water backups, roof damage, and ice dams as temps start to drop. Use gloves, a scoop, or a leaf blower and flush with water to check for clogs.
Inspect the Roof
Use binoculars or safely climb to inspect for missing, cracked, or curling shingles. Look for damaged flashing around chimneys or vents. Schedule repairs now to avoid costly problems when snow hits.
Schedule a Furnace Inspection
Book an HVAC professional to clean and service your furnace. They’ll check for efficiency, safety, and carbon monoxide leaks—crucial before Wisconsin’s heating season kicks in.
Seal Windows and Doors
Feel around windows and doors for drafts. Apply caulk around exterior gaps and install or replace weatherstripping to improve energy efficiency and comfort.
Disconnect and Drain Garden Hoses
Unhook alm ...

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Friday, August 1, 2025   /   by Ryan Huemmer

August Home Maintenance Checklist

Deck and Patio Care: Clean and reseal decks and patios to protect them from moisture and sun damage. Repair any loose boards or cracked tiles.
Window and Door Sealing: Check and replace weather stripping around windows and doors to keep cool air inside and prevent energy loss.
Exterior Painting and Siding Repair: Touch up or repaint areas of your home’s exterior that need attention. Repair or replace damaged siding to protect your home from the elements.
 
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure all detectors are functioning properly by testing them and replacing batteries if necessary.
Inspect Roof and Gutters: Look for damaged shingles and clean out gutters to ensure they are free of debris, which helps prevent water damage from summer storms.  
The Huemmer Home Team
LPT Realty
608-709-4623
theteam@thhtrealty.com ...

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