You’re standing by your window admiring the view. Then you notice it. Moisture has built-up around the edges of the glass. Should you worry? It all depends on the reason for the build up. Assuming you have traditional double-pane glass in your windows, there are a few things to look for if you notice moisture. Often, moisture at the bottom of the windows is simply caused by too much humidity in your indoor air. If that’s the case, simply adjust your humidifier. If the moisture is on the exterior of the window, typically there’s also no problem with the window itself. It may have rained recently or the outside humidity may have spiked causing the accumulation. Generally, there’s no reason for concern. However, if the moisture is in between the two panes of glass, the seal has broken and surrounding air – along with its water content – has made its way in. This disrupts the thermal barrier of the window, reducing its energy efficiency. In fact, the glass might feel noticeably colder than your other windows on chilly days. In that case, you’ll need to replace the pane. Similarly, if the moisture is coming in through only one spot — the bottom right corner, for example — then you might have a leak. If you have a wood frame or sill, you may also notice a growing water stain. It’s important to get leaks fixed quickly. There may be water damage occurring within the frame that you cannot see.

When showing your home during the winter holidays my number one suggestion is to turn up the heat. Nothing shows worse than a home with a chill. If you have a gas fireplace, turn it on before you leave for the showing. Another tip to do pre showing is to simmer some winter scents (Cinnamon sticks, oranges, cloves or whatever you fancy) to help give your house a festive and cozy feel. Another way to emphasize that cozy feel, place a throw on the back of your couch, preferably one that’s woolen.  One more tip for the inside of your home is to arrange a winter themed centerpiece for your dining room table.

Now moving to the exterior of your home, I suggest hanging a festive decoration on your front door such as a wreath, a star or whatever you think is appropriate. Also, hang some tasteful lights around the exterior of your home as well as inside. No matter what holiday people might be celebrating, every winter holiday celebrates the light.

 I definitely recommend decorating your house, as no one likes a Scrooge, but I encourage you to take a minimalist approach. Do not hang up massive amounts of decorations. Try to keep what décor you do put up to be classy and clean. Please refer to our DIY Holiday Pinterest board if you need some helpful ideas. 

Follow Dodd Team's board DIY Holiday Home Decor on Pinterest.

      Keep your property looking neat throughout the winter months. A couple useful things to have to achieve this are a leaf blower and hedge trimmers. Clip back your dying plants to give the property a neat and maintained feel. Use your leaf blower to blow away debris especially from those winter windstorms.  Leaf blowers are also handy for getting those pesky needles and leaves out of your gravel driveway. Even though your property may not be green and flourishing it can still look attractive and keep those buyer’s interested. Also, don’t forget to clean your gutters! It may not be the most thrilling task, but you will certainly thank yourself later. Finally, make sure your roof is free of leaks or gaps. This is not just a chore to make your home aesthetically pleasing, but also to maintain the value of your property. Once the snow settles on your roof, you are looking at damp problems and/or rotting timbers.

We have many fantastic trade connections that can assist you with your maintenance. Feel free to contact us and we would be more than happy to refer you to someone.