Your Snowbird Departure: No Loose Ends, Just Peace of Mind!

So, you’re gearing up to escape winter’s chill and bask in warmer climates? I get that you want to flock to a warmer climes, but here’s the thing: leaving your nest behind can be a tad nerve-wrecking, especially if you aren’t sure you’ve prepped your home well. A well-executed checklist can help protect your house against theft, water damage and other unwanted surprises.

Here are a few ways to make sure you are packing up and securing your home properly for the winter!

Mail Matters:

Pop over to the USPS website and follow the tabs for managing your mail. It’s pretty straight forward! And those pesky door hangers and flyers that come to your door? Ask a neighbor or a family member to occasionally check in on your home. A bonus tip? If you are only leaving for a few weeks, loop in your local police. A little extra surveillance never hurt!

Warm Vibes Only:

Don’t even think about shutting your heat off. Aim for a cozy 55 and 60 degrees. No frozen pipes on my watch!

The Water Woah’s:

Turning off your water? Absolutely essential! It’s the simplest flood prevention.  And if you’ve got pros (like a home watch company) checking in, you might get a pass on this one.

Inside Intel:

Check your smoke alarm and switch out any dimming bulbs. And while you’re at it give those window locks a jiggle. Got a chimney? Close the flue. Picture it: returning to find birds dead in your chimney. Not cool! This actually happened at one of my short-term rentals and the cleaners couldn’t figure out where the terrible smell was coming from. Not a pleasant situation.

Your Home’s Outer Armor:

Be sure to have your gutters cleaned out so water drains easily and pushes away from your home. Remember how much you paid for that patio set and how long it took to be delivered? Cover it up or put it tin storage.  

Appliance TLC:

The week before departure is “home food week.” Trust me, the fewer perishables, the better. Empty any free-standing ice makers and keep dishwasher and washer doors ajar (mildew is not your friend), and unplug what doesn’t need to be plugged in while you are away (microwaves and televisions, etc.).

The Best $15 Investment

Seriously, grab those smart plugs off Amazon. Setting lamp timers will be a breeze with these. Making it look like there’s activity at home? Priceless! And if you can, get someone to occasionally shuffle those drapes around (open and close). It’s all about the illusion!  

Neighborly Nudges:

It's beneficial to have someone nearby on close watch in case they see anything suspicious around your home while you're away. A heads up to neighbors is golden. Share contact details, and let them know your return date. It’s always handy having extra eyes on your property.

Last But Not Least:

Rushing through your departure checklist? Big no-no. That nagging “Did I forget something?” feeling can sour a vacation real quick. But if you’ve got trustworthy neighbors or a dedicated home watch service, you’ve got back up!

Ready to fly without the stress? Arm yourself and your home with this checklist, and you’ll be sipping cocktails with total peace of mind. Safe travels!