How Property Managers Can Prepare Rental Homes for the Cold Season?

We partnered with a real estate company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

Preparing rental homes for winter isn’t just about tenant comfort; it’s also about protecting the property from costly damage when temperatures plummet. That's why the Delaware County property management team encourages owners to review their current winter maintenance strategy.  After all, how else will your property avoid frozen pipes, leaky roofs, and a ridiculously high energy bill? This article focuses on practical ways property managers can prepare rental homes for the cold season. Continue reading below to learn how to weatherproof yours and keep operations running smoothly as it grows colder. 

How Does Cold Weather Impact Rental Properties?

Increased Risk of Frozen Pipes

Keep potential leaks at bay by weatherstripping your pipes. When the temperature drops, water in your poorly insulated pipes gets cold and turns to ice. Eventually, that ice can expand and damage the pipe or even burst, causing a major flood and water damage. This is especially true for pipes in drafty places such as an unheated basement or a poorly protected attic. Also, if any part of your plumbing runs outdoors, it could be at risk too.

Higher Heating Costs

Another problem that’s peculiar to the colder months is the higher cost of heating. With temperatures dipping, now is the perfect time for tenants to nestle in and get cozy. However, that also means cranking the heat up, which puts more demand on your HVAC system. Older and inefficient systems that can’t keep up end up costing the property owner more in utilities because they have to work overtime to keep the house warm. 

Structural Threat to Roofs and Gutters

When snow and ice build up on your roof and in your gutters, there’s a higher likelihood of damage. Why? If there’s enough debris, for example, broken branches and leaves from the previous fall season, it can block your drainage. In other words, later on, when snow and ice from winter melt, they can get stuck on your roof and in the gutters where they collect. Aside from damaging these structures, that moisture can seep through your walls and cause further problems, such as a mold infestation or electrical issues. 

Weatherproofing and Energy Efficiency Measures

Install Weather Stripping

Preparing your rental for winter is a great start to protect your property from costly winter damage, which is why weather stripping is so essential. Start insulating your pipes to prevent them from freezing or bursting open, and you’ll save yourself from the extra money on emergency plumbing. You can also go the extra mile of sealing gaps around your doors and windows to keep cold air out and warm air in the building. This step reduces the workload on your HVAC system, which means it also reduces your utility bill while making tenants warmer and more comfortable. 

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Bulbs

Beyond weather stripping, another way you can cut your utility bill is by opting for energy-efficient bulbs. It might seem like a small move, but it can go a long way in reducing your energy consumption. Besides, they also last longer than their traditional counterparts, meaning you get more out of your money. A working and energy-efficient bulb also has the added benefit of cutting down on your maintenance visits during the winter months. 

Schedule HVAC Maintenance

Get more out of your HVAC system by scheduling routine maintenance. After all, a well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently and is less likely to fail during peak cold spells. In addition, having a professional inspect your HVAC systems helps you identify minor issues early and get them fixed before it’s time to nestle in. That often includes routine tasks such as cleaning filters, checking for leaks, and ensuring the thermostats and ducts are working properly. 

Importance of Early Preparation and Consistent Maintenance

Avoid Costly Emergencies

Identify and fix potential problems early through proactive preparation. Instead of waiting for your pipes to spring a leak or your electric bill to go up due to spot insulation gaps, it would be best to take the right steps to avoid those situations. Why let small issues escalate into expensive winter emergencies? In the long run, proactive maintenance saves property managers from last-minute repairs and protects their investment.

Improve Tenant Satisfaction

Boost tenant retention by showing up on time. When tenants see that their comfort and safety are prioritized, they’re more likely to renew their leases. A well-heated, weatherproofed home reduces complaints, maintains trust, and strengthens tenant relationships during harsh weather conditions.

Conclusion 

Preparing rental homes for the cold season is essential for both property protection and tenant comfort. Cold weather can cause frozen pipes, higher heating costs, and structural damage, but these risks can be minimized through proactive maintenance and weatherproofing. Installing weather stripping, upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, and scheduling HVAC inspections all contribute to improved energy performance and reduced expenses. By preparing early and maintaining properties consistently, managers can prevent costly emergencies, keep tenants satisfied, and extend the lifespan of their investments. A well-prepared property not only survives winter, but it also performs better year-round.

What To Look for in a Living Room Accent Chair

Finding the perfect accent chair for your living room transforms your space from ordinary to extraordinary. As a busy mom, you need furniture that works as hard as you do—pieces that combine style, comfort, and practicality without breaking the bank.

The right accent chair serves multiple purposes in your home. It provides extra seating for family movie nights, creates a cozy reading nook for stolen moments of quiet time, and adds that finishing touch that makes your living room feel complete and welcoming. But what should you look for in a living room accent chair? We’ve got the details below.

Choose the Right Size for Your Space

Measuring your space before shopping saves time and prevents costly mistakes. Your accent chair should complement your existing furniture without overwhelming the room or creating awkward traffic patterns.

Consider these key measurements:

• Seat Height: The chair should align with your sofa’s seat height, typically 17 – 19 inches.

• Chair Width: Allow at least 30 inches of walking space around the chair.

• Room Proportion: The chair should fill about one-third of the wall space it sits against.

Prioritize Comfort and Support

Comfort becomes nonnegotiable when you factor in long days chasing kids, helping with homework, or finally relaxing after bedtime routines. Test the chair’s support system before purchasing.

Look for chairs with quality cushioning that bounces back after sitting. The seat depth should allow you to sit comfortably with your back against the chair while keeping your feet flat on the floor. Armrests should support your arms without forcing your shoulders up or causing you to slouch.

Select Durable, Family-Friendly Materials

Your accent chair must withstand daily family life. Performance fabrics resist stains and clean easily—important when dealing with spilled juice boxes or muddy shoes.

Leather and faux leather wipe clean quickly, making them excellent choices for busy households. If you prefer fabric, choose tightly woven materials in darker colors or patterns that camouflage inevitable wear and minor stains.

Avoid delicate materials like silk or light-colored fabrics that show every fingerprint. Your furniture should enhance your life, not create additional cleaning stress.

Match Your Existing Style

Your accent chair should complement your current decor while adding visual interest. This doesn’t mean everything needs to match perfectly—contrast creates depth and personality in your space.

If your sofa features solid colors, consider a patterned chair to add visual texture. When working with existing patterns, choose a complementary solid color that picks up tones from your room’s color palette.

For families following a living room checklist for new homeowners, selecting versatile pieces that work with different decor styles provides flexibility as your tastes evolve.

Consider Functionality Beyond Seating

Multi-functional furniture makes sense for busy families. Swivel chairs allow you to easily turn toward different conversation areas or keep an eye on playing children. Chairs with built-in storage provide space for throw pillows, magazines, or kids’ toys.

Recliners offer ultimate relaxation for those precious quiet moments, while rockers or gliders work beautifully if you’re still in the baby and toddler phase.

The perfect accent chair balances style, comfort, and practicality for your family’s unique needs. Take time to evaluate your space, test comfort levels, and choose materials that support your busy lifestyle. When you look for a living room accent chair, consider the factors mentioned above and how they suit your family.

Unique Ways to Mix Up Your Home's Design and Feel

Revamping your home doesn’t have to mean a full-scale renovation; sometimes it just take mixing and matching a few details. By incorporating thoughtful, creative changes, you can transform your living spaces into a fresh and inspiring sanctuary that you and your family will enjoy. If you’ve been feeling like your home’s look has been a little drab or outdated, we’ll dive into a few unique ways to mix up your home’s design and feel.

Play with Color and Texture

One of the simplest ways to change the vibe of a room is by experimenting with color and texture. Consider painting an accent wall in a bold hue to create a focal point or swapping out area rugs and pillow covers for ones with eye-catching patterns.

Layering textures, such as velvet cushions with woven throws, can add depth and warmth to your space. These small tweaks go a long way in making your rooms feel fresh while reflecting your personality.

Reimagine Your Furniture Layout

Transforming your home's feel can be as easy as rearranging your existing furniture; take time to reevaluate the placement of your sofas, chairs, and tables to optimize flow and functionality.

Try angling your furniture pieces for a unique perspective, or create zones within open spaces to give each area a purposeful feel. This approach can breathe new life into your home without requiring additional expenses.

Modernize Your Kitchen

Your kitchen is the heart of your home, and updating it can significantly enhance its atmosphere. Swap out old cabinet hardware for sleek and modern options to immediately boost the aesthetic. Look into a new Zellige backsplash for a bold look; there are many different ways to update your home’s look with Zellige, a backsplash is just one of them.

If you’re looking for subtle changes, consider replacing dishware with visually cohesive sets or displaying decorative storage jars. Even something as simple as adding fresh herbs in stylish pots can make your cooking space feel both functional and inviting.

Personalize with Statement Pieces

Show off your personality by incorporating statement pieces into your décor with unique artwork, sculptures, or handmade items that resonate with you, and make these the centerpiece of your room.

A dramatic light fixture or a vintage piece of furniture also works wonders in adding character. Personal touches like family heirlooms or travel mementos bring life to a home and spark meaningful conversations with guests.

Integrate Natural Elements

Enhance your home’s ambiance by bringing the outdoors inside; plants of various shapes and sizes add a lush and calming element to any room.

You might place larger plants like fiddle-leaf figs in unused corners or hang trailing greenery in macramé holders for a touch of bohemian charm. Natural materials like wood, stone, and bamboo also create organic textures that provide a grounding and serene atmosphere.

Enhance Your Home

Transforming your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. With a few small changes, personalized touches, and a focus on what makes you feel at ease, you can create a space that truly reflects your personality and meets your needs. Whether it’s adding a splash of color, incorporating cozy elements, or upgrading key areas, incorporating special ways to improve your home’s look will give you a space that it uniquely yours.

How to Clean Out a Nasty House After an Eviction

We partnered with a real estate company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

How to Clean Out a Nasty House After an Eviction

By Joy Gebarah, Owner of Kernvestors

After flipping more than 100 homes across California, I’ve learned that some of the most challenging projects begin the moment an eviction ends. A house can look perfectly normal on the outside while the inside tells a very different story—trash piled up, food left out, broken furniture, and sometimes damage that goes far beyond clutter. It’s never anyone’s favorite job, but knowing how to clean out a home safely and efficiently makes the process manageable.

Whether you’re a landlord, a new investor, or simply curious about what really happens behind the scenes, here’s a realistic step-by-step look into how to clean out a property after a tough eviction. These steps also come from the perspective of someone who buys houses in Bakersfield and other cities in California, where I’ve had to deal with every kind of cleanup imaginable.

1. Start With Safety First

Before touching anything, gear up. Gloves, boots, and masks are non-negotiable. You never really know what’s hiding under a pile of clothes or what’s been sitting in the fridge for weeks. Sometimes I bring in an air scrubber for a few hours just to clear out the smell and dust before doing any physical work. If the property has structural concerns—soft floors, exposed wiring, or damaged plumbing—address those first. A safe cleanup starts with a safe environment.

2. Do an Initial Walkthrough and Categorize the Job

Every eviction cleanout falls into categories:

- Light debris: Trash, clothing, discarded items

- Heavy debris: Furniture, mattresses, broken appliances

- Hazardous situations: Mold, pests, needles, rotting food

Your approach changes depending on which one you’re dealing with. Some landlords underestimate how long a job will take because they try to jump straight into cleaning without evaluating the full scope.

3. Remove All Trash and Debris First

Most properties require a big dumpster on-site. I usually start from the farthest room and work toward the front door. Big items—sofas, beds, dressers—come out first. Smaller trash fills in the gaps. This phase always takes longer than expected, especially in homes where tenants left behind years of belongings. But once everything is out, the house immediately feels more manageable.

4. Deep Clean Room by Room

When the debris is gone, the real cleaning begins. That means:

- Scrubbing walls

- Disinfecting kitchens and bathrooms

- Cleaning or removing appliances

- Shampooing or ripping out carpets

- Treating any odors that soaked into drywall or flooring

Sometimes replacing is cheaper than restoring. After hundreds of flips, I’ve learned that a ruined carpet or heavily stained tub isn’t worth salvaging.

5. Repair, Refresh, and Get the House Market-Ready

Once the home is clean, minor repairs are surprisingly quick:

- Patching holes

- Repainting

- Replacing fixtures

- Installing new flooring

- Updating broken windows or doors

Whether the owner plans to rent it again or sell it, this is where the house starts to look like a home again—not a project.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning out a property after an eviction isn’t glamorous, but it’s part of the reality for anyone managing rentals or investing in distressed homes. As a company that specializes in buying houses in Bakersfield CA, I’ve seen firsthand that even the worst situations can be turned around with the right process and a little patience. And for homeowners who feel overwhelmed, remember—we buy houses in Bakersfield, no matter the condition. But even if you choose to tackle the cleanup yourself, the steps above will help you approach the job the same way seasoned investors do.