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The chilly season has officially settled in across Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati — and while the holidays bring warmth and joy, they also bring a few extra responsibilities for homeowners.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a longtime homeowner, or preparing to sell in early 2026, this mid-winter home checklist will help you keep your home comfortable, efficient, and protected all season long.
As the #1 ERA Real Solutions Realty team in Northern Kentucky, with 913+ transactions closed and more than 25 years of combined experience, the This Girl Sells Houses Team is here to help you stay ahead of the season.
Let’s get your home winter-ready!
1. Protect Your Pipes From Freezing
Cold snaps hit fast in NKY and Cincinnati. Prevent costly damage by:
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Letting faucets drip during freezing nights
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Opening cabinet doors under sinks to circulate warm air
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Insulating exposed pipes in garages, basements, and crawl spaces
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Keeping your thermostat set consistently, even when away
A burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in damage — a small drip can save you a big headache.
2. Schedule (or Check) Your Furnace Service
Your furnace is working overtime this month. Make sure it’s running efficiently by:
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Replacing the air filter (every 30–60 days in winter)
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Clearing dust from floor vents
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Listening for unusual noises
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Monitoring for uneven heating
A tuned furnace keeps your utility bills lower and your home more comfortable.
3. Seal Drafts Around Windows & Doors
If you feel cold air sneaking in, your home is losing heat (and money).
Simple fixes include:
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Weatherstripping
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Door sweeps
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Caulking around window edges
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Thick winter curtains for drafty rooms
Even small improvements help maintain warmth and reduce energy bills.
4. Clean Your Chimney & Fireplace
If you enjoy cozy fires, safety is key.
Make sure you:
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Have your chimney inspected for creosote buildup
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Use a screen to prevent sparks
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Keep flammable items several feet away
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Test your flue for proper ventilation
A clean fireplace is safer and produces better heat.
5. Check Your Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Winter means closed windows, more heating, and more appliance usage — making safety alarms essential.
Test your devices and replace batteries to ensure they’re working properly.
If you have a gas furnace or fireplace, a carbon monoxide detector is a must.
6. Prepare for Winter Storms
NKY and Cincinnati weather changes in a heartbeat. Be ready with:
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Flashlights + fresh batteries
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Warm blankets
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Ice melt and sand
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Backup cell phone chargers
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A small supply of shelf-stable food
Having a winter plan makes unexpected storms much easier to handle.
7. Clear Gutters & Inspect Your Roof
Snow and ice can cause major issues if your roof or gutters aren’t prepared.
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Clear leaves and debris from gutters
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Check for loose or missing shingles
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Look for signs of ice damming
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Ensure downspouts drain away from your home
A little upkeep prevents leaks and costly spring repairs.
8. Keep Walkways Safe & Slip-Free
Icy sidewalks and driveways are common around here.
Use:
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Salt or ice melt
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Sand for traction
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A sturdy shovel
Clear walkways protect your household — and any guests — from slipping injuries.
9. Deep-Clean High-Use Areas Before Holiday Company Arrives
Winter brings more indoor time and more visitors.
This is a perfect weekend to freshen:
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Entryways
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Mudrooms
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Guest rooms
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Kitchen counters and appliances
A clean, organized space sets the tone for a stress-free season.
Thinking of Buying or Selling This Winter?
Winter is one of the best times to get ahead of the market.
If you’d like help preparing your home or want a personalized search set up:
Or reach out anytime — I’m here to help you every confident step of the way.
Deanna Parson
This Girl Sells Houses Team at ERA Real Solutions Realty
Northern Kentucky & Greater Cincinnati
859-512-4444
