If you’re a seasonal rental owner in Ocean Pines, MD, it’s essential to prepare your property for the cold winter weather ahead. At Hileman Real Estate, your trusted local real estate partner, we understand the importance of maintaining your investment and ensuring a smooth transition into the cooler months. Follow our owner’s winter checklist to protect your seasonal rental and feel prepared when you open back up for the summer.
Winter Checklist for Seasonal Rentals
Turn the Heat Down
While it might seem counterintuitive, setting your thermostat to a lower temperature can actually benefit your property during the winter. Most HVAC professionals suggest aiming for a moderate temperature of around 55-60°F while the house is not in use, preventing pipes from freezing without unnecessarily increasing energy bills. This also helps create a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly rental property.
Take the Trash Out
Before closing up your vacation home for the winter, make sure to dispose of all perishable items in the refrigerator and pantry, and take out the trash. Be sure to walk through the entire house to make sure all trash from bathrooms and other areas is disposed of. This simple step can prevent unpleasant odors and keep any animals or bugs from trying to sneak in while ensuring a fresh start when you open your property back up for the summer.
Unplug All Appliances
To save on energy costs and reduce the risk of electrical issues, unplug all non-essential appliances around the house. This includes TVs, chargers, and kitchen gadgets. Not only is this helpful for safety reasons, but it also helps extend the lifespan of your appliances.
Turn the Water Off
Avoid costly plumbing repairs by turning off the water supply to your vacation rental when no one is there. This prevents frozen pipes and potential leaks during the winter months, making sure you don’t return to extensive water damage when you open the house back up. It’s a small action that can save you significant time, money, and headaches down the road.
Lock Up
Secure your property by checking all doors and windows to ensure they are properly locked. Consider investing in a security system or asking a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your vacation home while you’re away.
At Hileman Real Estate, we understand the needs of our seasonal rental property owners in Ocean Pines, MD, and we’re here to help our clients whenever they need us. List your vacation rental with Hileman, and we’ll handle the entire rental process, allowing you to focus on enjoying the benefits of your real estate investment. Contact us today to get started and experience the peace of mind that comes with partnering with a reliable real estate team!