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Winter Home Preparation Checklist for Southeast Michigan


Real estate agents know that winter reveals a home's true condition. The leaky roof that went unnoticed in July becomes obvious during January's ice dam season. The furnace that "seemed fine" during summer showings fails during the first cold snap. For buyers closing on homes in late fall and winter, winter preparation isn't optional—it's essential protection for their investment. For sellers listing during autumn, documented winter readiness demonstrates home quality and prevents emergency calls from buyers after closing. Understanding what makes a Michigan home winter-ready helps all parties navigate transactions confidently and protects against the expensive surprises that Southeast Michigan's harsh winters can deliver.



Michigan Home Inspection In Winter

Why Winter Preparation Matters for Real Estate Transactions

A home inspection conducted in summer provides valuable information, but it can't replicate the stress that winter places on homes. Heating systems run continuously rather than occasionally. Insulation performance becomes critical rather than theoretical. Roof vulnerabilities that don't matter in July can cause thousands in damage by February. This seasonal reality creates unique considerations for buyers, sellers, and agents working through fall and winter transactions.


Buyers closing between September and February face immediate pressure to prepare homes for winter. Unlike spring closings that provide months to address deferred maintenance, fall closings demand rapid action. The furnace needs service before daily use begins. Gutters must be cleaned before leaves block them completely. Weatherstripping should be replaced before heating costs spiral. Understanding these time-sensitive priorities helps buyers budget and plan accordingly.

Sellers listing in fall have opportunities to demonstrate home quality through documented winter preparation.


A home listed with recent furnace service, clean gutters, and fresh weatherstripping sends a message about overall maintenance. Conversely, a home showing obvious neglect—clogged gutters, overgrown vegetation against the foundation, visible gaps around windows—raises questions about what else has been ignored. Pre-listing preparation during late summer and early fall positions homes favorably for autumn selling season.


Winter closings present unique challenges that require clear communication between all parties. Homes sitting vacant during extreme cold need adequate heat to prevent frozen pipes. Snow and ice on roofs should be monitored to prevent ice dam formation. Driveways and walkways need clearing to allow inspections and showings. Determining who bears responsibility for these tasks during the transaction period prevents disputes and protects properties from weather-related damage.

Winter Home Inspection

What Home Inspectors Look For: Winter Readiness Assessment

During home inspections conducted in fall or early winter, inspectors evaluate multiple systems and components that directly impact winter performance. Understanding what inspectors prioritize helps buyers and sellers focus on the most critical issues.


Heating System Evaluation

The furnace or boiler receives thorough inspection, as heating system failure during Michigan winters isn't just inconvenient—it's dangerous and can lead to frozen pipes and catastrophic damage. Inspectors test heating system operation, verify that all zones heat properly, check for adequate airflow from vents, examine the heat exchanger for cracks or corrosion (in furnaces), inspect the flue and venting system, and verify carbon monoxide detectors are present and functional.


Age matters significantly with heating systems. Furnaces typically last 15-20 years, while boilers can reach 25-30 years with proper maintenance. A 20-year-old furnace that's functioning during inspection may fail mid-winter, creating emergency replacement situations. Inspection reports note equipment age and condition, giving buyers realistic expectations about replacement timelines.


Service history provides valuable insight into heating system reliability. Sellers who provide documentation of annual maintenance demonstrate responsible homeownership. Lack of any service records for a 15-year-old furnace raises concerns about reliability and remaining lifespan. Smart buyers request recent service records or factor replacement costs into their purchase calculations.


Insulation and Air Sealing Assessment

Attic insulation receives particular attention during fall inspections, as inadequate insulation leads to both high heating costs and ice dam formation. Inspectors measure insulation depth, check for even distribution, identify gaps around penetrations (chimneys, vents, pipes), and evaluate whether insulation has been compressed or damaged by roof leaks or pests.


Michigan's current building standard calls for R-49 to R-60 attic insulation. Homes built before the 1980s often have R-19 or less. This deficiency appears in inspection reports and creates negotiation points—buyers can request insulation upgrades or credits to handle improvements post-closing.


Air sealing assessment identifies where heated air escapes the building envelope. While inspectors can't see inside walls, several indicators reveal air leakage problems: visible gaps around window and door frames, daylight visible around doors when closed, drafts noticeable during walk-throughs, and inadequate weatherstripping on exterior doors. Some inspectors use thermal imaging cameras during cold weather inspections to identify air leakage and insulation gaps that aren't otherwise visible.


Roof and Gutter Condition

Fall inspections emphasize roof readiness for snow load and ice dam potential. Inspectors evaluate shingle condition and remaining lifespan, check for adequate attic ventilation (preventing ice dams), examine flashings around chimneys and vents, assess gutter condition and attachment, and verify downspouts direct water away from foundations.


Gutters clogged with leaves don't just create ice dam risks—they indicate maintenance neglect that may extend to other systems. During fall inspections, gutters should be clean or sellers should commit to cleaning before winter. Sagging gutters, loose downspouts, or gutters pulling away from fascia boards need repair or replacement before winter weather arrives.


Missing or damaged shingles that might survive summer storms can become serious problems under snow and ice. Inspection reports document these issues, giving buyers leverage to request repairs before closing or credits to handle them immediately after.


Foundation and Drainage Evaluation

Winter preparation includes ensuring water drains away from foundations rather than pooling near the home where it can freeze and create pressure against foundation walls. Inspectors evaluate ground slope around the foundation, verify downspouts extend adequately from the house, check for standing water indicators in crawl spaces or basements, examine sump pump operation (if present), and note any foundation cracks that could worsen through freeze-thaw cycles.


Homes with poor drainage face increased risks during winter. Snow melt and rain combine with frozen ground that can't absorb water, creating situations where water pools against foundations. Over time, this leads to basement seepage, foundation damage, and the erosion issues discussed in previous foundation articles.


Windows and Door Weatherization

Drafty windows and doors waste energy and make homes uncomfortable. Inspectors note obvious weatherization issues: visible gaps around door frames, worn or missing weatherstripping, single-pane windows in unheated spaces, and windows that don't close or lock properly (allowing air infiltration). While inspectors don't conduct blower door tests during standard inspections, obvious air leakage appears in reports and indicates areas needing attention before winter.


Storm windows and doors, when present, should be installed and functional. Homes with storm windows that are broken, missing screens, or not properly installed lose much of their energy-saving benefit. This matters particularly for older homes where storm windows provide the only barrier against air infiltration around original single-pane windows.


The Transaction Impact: Timing and Responsibilities

Fall real estate transactions require attention to winter preparation timing and clear understanding of who handles various tasks between contract signing and closing.


For Buyers: Post-Closing Priority Checklist

Buyers closing in fall or early winter should prioritize winter preparation immediately. Waiting until problems arise is exponentially more expensive than proactive preparation. The priority checklist includes scheduling furnace service within the first week of ownership (before daily use begins), cleaning gutters if not done pre-closing, installing or replacing weatherstripping on exterior doors, verifying all windows close and lock properly, checking attic insulation and ventilating fans, testing sump pump operation if present, and ensuring carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are functional.


First-time homebuyers particularly benefit from understanding these priorities. Many don't realize that furnace service should be annual, that gutters need cleaning twice yearly, or that sump pumps require testing. Agents who educate buyers about winter maintenance protect client relationships and prevent post-closing problems.


Budget considerations matter. A home purchased in October needs immediate investment in winter preparation—furnace service ($100-$200), gutter cleaning ($150-$300), weatherstripping ($50-$150 for DIY, more for professional), and potentially emergency repairs if inspection revealed issues sellers wouldn't address. Buyers should budget $500-$1,000 minimum for winter prep if sellers haven't already handled these tasks.


For Sellers: Pre-Listing Fall Preparation

Sellers listing homes in late summer or fall benefit from proactive winter preparation. A home that's obviously winter-ready appeals to buyers and demonstrates overall maintenance quality. Pre-listing tasks include scheduling and documenting furnace service, cleaning gutters and downspouts, replacing worn weatherstripping, repairing or replacing damaged storm windows, addressing any obvious drafts or air leaks, and ensuring roof is in good condition for winter weather.


Documentation enhances value. Providing buyers with recent furnace service records, receipts for gutter cleaning, or invoices for roof repairs demonstrates responsible homeownership and builds confidence. This documentation often proves more valuable than the actual cost of services, as it shows buyers the home has been cared for properly.


Vacant homes need special attention. Sellers who have moved out before selling face decisions about maintaining heat through winter (expensive but prevents freeze damage), winterizing by draining plumbing (prevents freeze damage but complicates inspections), or finding buyers quickly to avoid winter complications. Each approach has tradeoffs that agents should help sellers understand.


For Agents: Managing Fall and Winter Transactions

Real estate agents working fall and winter transactions can provide valuable guidance by setting appropriate expectations. Buyers need to understand that fall closings require immediate winter preparation and budget accordingly. Sellers need to understand that winter-ready homes show better and sell faster than those with obvious deferred maintenance.


Timing matters significantly. Homes listed in August and September have time for buyers to prepare for winter. Homes listed in November and closing in December or January place buyers under immediate pressure. Agents should counsel clients about these timing realities and help negotiate appropriate terms—perhaps sellers agree to handle furnace service before closing, or buyers receive credits for immediate winter preparation.


Winter showings present challenges that agents manage. Ensuring properties remain accessible despite snow and ice, verifying heat is maintained in vacant properties, and scheduling inspections around weather conditions all require attention. Agents who proactively address these logistics provide superior service and protect properties during transaction periods.


Comprehensive Winter Preparation Checklist

Understanding the complete scope of winter preparation helps buyers and sellers address all critical areas rather than focusing on only the most obvious issues.


Heating System Preparation

Professional furnace or boiler service should occur annually, ideally in September or October before heavy use begins. Service includes cleaning the system, inspecting the heat exchanger, testing safety controls, checking airflow and combustion efficiency, replacing filters, and verifying proper thermostat operation. Service costs $100-$200 but prevents mid-winter breakdowns that require emergency calls at premium rates.


Beyond professional service, homeowners should replace furnace filters monthly during heating season (or per manufacturer recommendations), keep vents and registers clear of furniture and obstructions, test thermostat operation and replace batteries if needed, and ensure adequate clearance around furnaces (removing stored items that create fire hazards).


Carbon monoxide detectors deserve special attention. Every home with fuel-burning appliances

needs working CO detectors on each level, particularly near bedrooms. Testing detectors monthly and replacing batteries annually prevents tragedies. Inspection reports note missing or non-functional CO detectors, and buyers should address this immediately after closing.


Plumbing Protection

Frozen pipe prevention (covered in detail in the previous blog) includes insulating exposed pipes in unheated spaces, installing heat tape where appropriate, sealing air leaks in rim joist areas containing plumbing, ensuring adequate heating reaches all areas with plumbing, and knowing where the main water shutoff is located.


Additionally, exterior hose bibs should be drained and shut off from inside before freezing weather. Many Michigan homes have separate shutoff valves for exterior faucets, allowing the outdoor portion to be drained while maintaining water service inside. Leaving hoses attached or failing to drain exterior faucets is one of the most common causes of freeze damage.


Roof and Gutter Maintenance

Clean gutters and downspouts before leaves fall completely. Clogged gutters prevent proper drainage and create ice dam conditions. Professional gutter cleaning costs $150-$300 for typical homes, or homeowners can handle this task themselves with proper safety precautions.


Roof inspection from the ground identifies obvious issues: missing or damaged shingles, damaged flashing, or areas where previous repairs have failed. Major roof problems should be addressed before winter, while minor issues can often wait until spring. Inspection reports guide these decisions by documenting severity and urgency.


Attic ventilation inspection ensures adequate airflow to prevent ice dams. Blocked soffit vents (often from blown-in insulation) should be cleared. Gable or ridge vents should be functional. Proper ventilation keeps the roof deck cold, preventing the snow melt that creates ice dams.


Window and Door Weatherization

Weatherstripping around exterior doors should seal completely when doors are closed. Worn weatherstripping is inexpensive to replace (typically $5-$15 per door for materials) and dramatically improves comfort and energy efficiency. Testing doors by closing them and checking for light visibility around the frame or feeling for drafts identifies problem areas.


Windows should close and lock properly. Windows that don't close fully or that have failed seals (visible condensation between panes) waste energy. While window replacement is expensive ($300-$1,000+ per window), temporary solutions like window insulation film ($10-$20 per window) provide some improvement until permanent solutions are possible.


Storm windows and doors, when present, should be installed for winter. Removing summer screens and installing glass panels provides an additional barrier against heat loss. Ensuring storm windows fit properly and aren't damaged maximizes their effectiveness.


Foundation and Drainage

Ensuring proper drainage away from foundations prevents basement seepage and freeze-thaw foundation damage. Ground should slope away from the house (minimum 6 inches drop over 10 feet). Low spots that collect water should be filled and graded to direct water away from the foundation.


Downspout extensions should carry water at least 6 feet from foundations. Downspouts that discharge directly at the foundation line create problems, particularly when ground is frozen and can't absorb water. Simple downspout extensions (available at hardware stores for $10-$30) provide an easy solution.


Basement or crawl space inspection before winter identifies any existing moisture issues that will worsen during snow melt season. Active seepage, standing water, or visible mold growth warrant immediate attention, as winter will make these problems worse.


Emergency Preparedness

Michigan winters bring power outages from ice storms and high winds. Homes should have flashlights with fresh batteries, battery-powered or hand-crank radio for weather updates, backup heating source (fireplace, space heater) if possible, and adequate emergency supplies (water, non-perishable food, first aid kit).


For homes with sump pumps, battery backup systems prevent basement flooding during power outages. Battery backup sump pumps cost $200-$500 installed but prevent thousands in water damage when power fails during heavy rain or snow melt. This investment makes particular sense for homes in areas with frequent power outages or those with histories of basement water issues.



Southeast Michigan Winter Home Preparation Checklist

Southeast Michigan Winter Home Preparation Checklist

HEATING SYSTEM (Complete by Late September/Early October)

Professional Service

  • Schedule annual furnace/boiler service ($100-$200)

  • Request and save service documentation for records

  • Have technician inspect heat exchanger for cracks/corrosion

  • Verify proper venting and flue operation

  • Test all safety controls and limit switches

  • Check combustion efficiency and adjust if needed

DIY Maintenance

  • Replace furnace filter (repeat monthly during heating season)

  • Test thermostat operation and replace batteries

  • Clear all vents and registers of furniture/obstructions

  • Remove items stored near furnace (maintain clearance)

  • Verify heat reaches all rooms adequately

  • Bleed radiators if you have a hot water heating system

Safety

  • Test carbon monoxide detectors on each level

  • Replace CO detector batteries

  • Install CO detectors near bedrooms if not present

  • Test smoke detectors throughout home

  • Replace smoke detector batteries

PLUMBING PROTECTION (Complete by Mid-October)

Freeze Prevention

  • Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces, basements, garages

  • Install heat tape on vulnerable pipe sections if needed

  • Seal air leaks in rim joist areas containing plumbing

  • Verify adequate heating reaches all areas with plumbing

  • Locate and test main water shutoff valve

Exterior Protection

  • Disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor faucets

  • Drain exterior hose bibs (shut off from inside if possible)

  • Cover exterior faucets with insulated caps

  • Drain and store hoses in garage or basement

  • Shut off and drain irrigation systems

Interior Checks

  • Open cabinets under sinks on exterior walls during extreme cold

  • Know location of shutoff valves for all fixtures

  • Keep interior temperature at minimum 55°F when away

  • Consider smart thermostat with alerts for monitoring

ROOF & GUTTERS (Complete by Mid-November)

Gutter Maintenance

  • Clean all gutters and downspouts ($150-$300 professional)

  • Remove all leaves, debris, and blockages

  • Test downspout flow with water from hose

  • Repair sagging or loose gutters

  • Secure loose downspouts to house

  • Extend downspouts minimum 6 feet from foundation

Roof Inspection

  • Inspect roof from ground for missing/damaged shingles

  • Check flashing around chimneys and vents

  • Look for areas where previous repairs have failed

  • Schedule professional roof inspection if concerns exist

  • Address major roof issues before winter arrives

Attic Ventilation

  • Verify soffit vents aren't blocked by insulation

  • Check that ridge/gable vents are clear and functional

  • Ensure adequate airflow throughout attic space

  • Add ventilation if ice dams have been a problem

INSULATION & AIR SEALING (Complete by Late October)

Attic Assessment

  • Measure attic insulation depth (should be 16-20 inches)

  • Check for gaps around penetrations (chimneys, pipes, vents)

  • Verify insulation isn't compressed or damaged

  • Add insulation if below R-49 to R-60 standards

  • Ensure insulation doesn't block soffit vents

Air Leak Prevention

  • Check weatherstripping on all exterior doors

  • Replace worn weatherstripping ($5-$15 per door)

  • Seal visible gaps around window frames with caulk

  • Install or replace door sweeps on exterior doors

  • Check attic hatch weatherstripping and add if missing

  • Seal gaps around pipes, wires, and vents entering walls

Window Preparation

  • Test that all windows close and lock properly

  • Repair or adjust windows that don't seal completely

  • Install window insulation film on drafty windows ($10-$20 each)

  • Install storm windows if you have them

  • Remove window screens and install glass panels in storm windows

FOUNDATION & DRAINAGE (Complete by Mid-October)

Grading & Drainage

  • Verify ground slopes away from foundation (6" drop over 10')

  • Fill low spots where water pools near foundation

  • Extend downspouts to carry water 6+ feet from house

  • Clear debris from window wells

  • Install window well covers if not present

Basement/Crawl Space

  • Inspect for existing moisture issues or seepage

  • Test sump pump operation (pour water in basin)

  • Consider battery backup for sump pump ($200-$500)

  • Check crawl space vents (close for winter if appropriate)

  • Verify crawl space insulation is adequate

  • Look for signs of mold or standing water

EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE (Complete by Late October)

Doors & Entry

  • Check all exterior door operation and alignment

  • Tighten loose hinges and adjust strike plates

  • Lubricate door locks and hinges

  • Install storm doors if you have them

  • Ensure exterior lights work (longer winter darkness)

Foundation & Siding

  • Remove vegetation touching foundation or siding

  • Trim tree branches overhanging roof (prevent ice damage)

  • Repair damaged siding or trim

  • Check foundation for cracks and monitor through winter

  • Seal significant cracks before freeze-thaw cycles begin

Walkways

  • Repair damaged concrete or pavers before freezing

  • Stock salt/ice melt for walkways and driveway

  • Ensure snow shovel and ice scraper are accessible

  • Check outdoor lighting for safe winter navigation

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS (Complete by November)

Power Outage Kit

  • Flashlights with fresh batteries (one per floor)

  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

  • Extra batteries (various sizes)

  • Bottled water (one gallon per person per day for 3 days)

  • Non-perishable food for 3 days

  • Manual can opener

  • First aid kit with updated supplies

  • Prescription medications (maintain 7-day supply)

  • Phone charging battery packs (fully charged)

Heating Backup

  • Stock firewood if you have a fireplace

  • Have chimney cleaned if you plan to use fireplace

  • Space heater in working condition (if safe to use)

  • Extra blankets easily accessible

  • Generator fuel if you have a generator

Important Information

  • Know location of main water shutoff

  • Know location of main electrical panel

  • Know location of gas shutoff (if applicable)

  • Have emergency contact numbers posted

  • Have HHI Services number saved: 248-388-4783

  • Keep home insurance policy accessible

  • Document home condition with photos (for insurance)

PROPERTY MONITORING (Ongoing Through Winter)

Weekly Checks

  • Walk around property looking for ice dams forming

  • Check for icicles indicating heat loss

  • Verify heat is working in all areas

  • Test water flow from all faucets

  • Look for signs of moisture or leaks

  • Clear snow from foundation vents and exhausts

After Storms

  • Clear snow from heating system exhaust vents

  • Remove heavy snow from roof if accumulation is extreme

  • Check gutters for ice buildup

  • Clear walkways and entries

  • Monitor for ice dams after heavy snowfall

Monthly Tasks

  • Replace furnace filter

  • Test CO and smoke detectors

  • Check basement/crawl space for moisture

  • Test sump pump operation

  • Review and restock emergency supplies

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

For Vacant Properties

  • Maintain heat at 60-65°F minimum (never below 55°F)

  • Have someone check property weekly

  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery

  • Keep walkways clear (liability concern)

  • Install smart thermostat with temperature alerts

  • Consider property monitoring service

  • Notify insurance company of vacancy

For New Homeowners

  • Schedule furnace service within first week of ownership

  • Request all maintenance records from seller

  • Locate all shutoff valves (water, gas, electrical)

  • Test all systems before winter weather arrives

  • Budget $500-$1,000 for immediate winter prep

  • Consider HHI Services consultation for priorities

For Homes After Inspection

  • Address all "safety" and "urgent" items immediately

  • Prioritize winter-critical repairs first

  • Schedule contractors before they're booked for season

  • Keep inspection report accessible for reference

  • Document all repairs and improvements made



Key Takeaways

Fall closings require immediate winter preparation. Unlike spring purchases, fall buyers can't defer maintenance. Heating system service, gutter cleaning, and weatherization need immediate attention to protect the home and control costs.

Documentation demonstrates home quality. Sellers who provide service records, repair receipts, and maintenance documentation build buyer confidence and often sell faster than homes with no maintenance history.

Winter reveals deferred maintenance. Issues that seem minor in summer become serious in winter. Inspection reports identifying winter-readiness problems give buyers negotiation leverage and help sellers understand what to address pre-listing.

Emergency preparedness protects investments. Power outages, heating system failures, and frozen pipes cause catastrophic damage during Michigan winters. Simple preparation prevents expensive emergencies.

Professional inspections identify priorities. Home inspectors evaluate winter readiness and help buyers understand which issues require immediate attention versus those that can wait until spring.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the best time to schedule furnace service?

A: September or early October, before heating season begins in earnest. This timing ensures your system is ready when you need it and avoids the rush that occurs when cold weather arrives and everyone simultaneously discovers their furnaces aren't working. Service scheduled in September is often less expensive than emergency service in December, and you'll have more flexibility in scheduling appointments.

Q: Should buyers factor winter preparation costs into their purchase offer?

A: Yes, particularly for fall closings. If inspection reveals that gutters need cleaning ($150-$300), furnace needs service ($100-$200), weatherstripping needs replacement ($100+), and other winter prep is required, buyers might request credits or factor these costs into their offer. Homes obviously unprepared for winter may justify $500-$1,500 in credits or price adjustments, depending on the scope of needs.

Q: What winter preparation should sellers complete before listing in fall?

A: At minimum: furnace service with documentation, clean gutters and downspouts, functional weatherstripping on exterior doors, and address any obvious roof or drainage issues noted in pre-listing inspections. These tasks cost $500-$1,000 but demonstrate home quality and prevent buyer inspection concerns. Well-maintained homes sell faster and often command premium prices versus comparable homes showing obvious neglect.

Q: How do vacant homes stay protected during winter transactions?

A: Maintain adequate heat (minimum 55°F, preferably 60-65°F), have someone check the property weekly, ensure mail and newspapers are stopped (preventing obvious vacancy), keep walkways cleared of snow and ice, and consider smart thermostats with alerts if temperatures drop unexpectedly. Some sellers hire property management services for vacant homes during winter months to ensure proper monitoring and maintenance.

Q: Can home inspections conducted in summer identify winter readiness issues?

A: Yes, to a degree. Inspectors evaluate heating system condition (though not performance in cold weather), assess insulation adequacy, identify obvious air leaks and weatherization problems, and evaluate roof and gutter condition. However, some issues only become apparent in cold weather—for example, how well heating reaches all rooms, whether certain pipes freeze, or whether ice dams form. Fall or winter inspections provide more complete winter readiness assessment than summer inspections.

Q: Who is responsible for winter maintenance during the transaction period?

A: Typically sellers remain responsible until closing, but specifics should be addressed in the purchase agreement. Snow removal, ensuring adequate heat, and protecting pipes generally fall to sellers until ownership transfers. However, extended closing periods during winter may warrant specific agreements about responsibilities. Clear communication prevents disputes about who should have cleared snow, maintained heat, or prevented specific winter damage.

Q: Are there any winter preparation tasks that provide good ROI for sellers?

A: Yes. Furnace service with documentation, clean gutters, fresh weatherstripping, and addressing obvious drafts cost relatively little ($500-$1,000 total) but demonstrate overall maintenance quality. Buyers perceive well-maintained homes as less risky and more valuable. Major improvements like new furnaces or roof replacement rarely return full investment, but basic winter readiness preparation often returns more than its cost through faster sales and fewer negotiation hurdles.


Ensure Your Home Is Winter-Ready with Professional Inspection

Whether you're buying a home before winter arrives or selling during fall, understanding winter readiness is essential for protecting investments and facilitating smooth transactions. A comprehensive home inspection evaluates heating systems, insulation, weatherization, and all the factors that determine whether a Michigan home can handle winter's challenges.


At HHI Services, our home inspections throughout Southeast Michigan include thorough winter readiness assessment. We evaluate heating system condition and capacity, assess insulation and air sealing, identify weatherization needs, document roof and gutter condition, and provide clear guidance on priorities for winter preparation. Our detailed reports help buyers understand what needs immediate attention and help sellers identify issues worth addressing before listing.


For Buyers: Schedule your inspection early in the due diligence period, allowing time to address critical winter preparation before closing.

For Sellers: Consider a pre-listing inspection to identify and address winter readiness issues that will inevitably surface during buyer inspections.

For Agents: Partner with inspectors who provide comprehensive winter readiness assessment,



Erik Hodge, Oxford home inspector

📞 Call HHI Services: 248-388-4783 

Schedule Your Buyer's or Seller's Inspection Today.

Knowledge is power, and early detection saves thousands.

Serving Southeast Michigan: Oakland County • Macomb County • Wayne County • Livingston County • Washtenaw County

 
 
 

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