By Nick Wilson 
The top estate agents Brentwood branches are often asked about tips and tricks for preparing a property before it goes on the market. As we head into autumn, now is the time to get on top of those last-minute home maintenance tasks and fix any ongoing issues. So, where should we start?
Fix those home maintenance issues that you’ve been putting off
One of the first things to consider is fixing any home maintenance issues that you’ve been putting off. If there are any simple DIY jobs that can be tackled while the weather is still warm, then now is your last chance to make the most of the opportunity. Plaster over those hairline cracks in the walls or fill in any holes. The drying time will be much quicker while you have the warm weather on your side.
Hire a carpet cleaning machine and deep clean the carpets in your home. You’ll appreciate how fast they dry and you won’t be faced with the levels of damp or condensation that may occur if these jobs are tackled during the colder months.
Ensure that your windows and window frames are in good condition and that you don’t have any cracks or blown glass panels. With the rising cost of living, keeping the heat inside your property will be more important than ever this autumn and winter.
Prepare a checklist of common issues
Working your way through a checklist of common issues is a good way to ensure that you stay on track with your intended autumn preparation. You could consider:
Checking your roof and attic space – The last thing you want to be dealing with during the rainy months is a leak in the roof or attic space. Check these areas before the weather turns, to ensure that you aren’t caught out at the last minute. Hiring a builder or tradesperson should also be easier and cheaper as the summer season comes to an end.
Clean your guttering – Blocked gutters can cause water to spill into the grouting on your walls and may create damp within the home. By cleaning your guttering and removing any debris, you’ll be ready for any autumn rain and stormy weather that may occur.
Check your boiler – It is a good idea to check your boiler now before you have to rely on it for the bitterly cold months ahead. An engineer will be able to advise of any potential issues and perform basic maintenance tasks.
Get your garden up to scratch
Don’t forget about those all-important garden jobs that need to be completed before summer is over. Rake over any debris that may have piled up as the trees start to drop their burnt orange leaves and warm-toned foliage. Before you dispose of these or make a bonfire, you should carefully check for animals such as hedgehogs and rodents, who may have made this their home.
Pressure wash your patio and pathways in order to wash away any slippery moss. This can build up during the wet autumn weather and create a hazard risk to your outside space.
Clear your vegetable beds and flowerbeds, leaving the frost-hardy plants behind. Compost whatever you can in order to create some fresh soil to top up your bed’s best year.